Official Syrian government announcements or major news agencies

Syrian PM Al-Jalali Aligns with Rebels as Assad's Whereabouts Unknown, Urges Free Elections

Dec 8, 2024, 06:36 AM

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali announced that he last communicated with President Bashar al-Assad on Saturday evening and is unaware of the president's current whereabouts or when he left Syria. In remarks to Al Arabiya, al-Jalali revealed that he has established contact with rebel forces, including Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and that he received a call from al-Jolani regarding ongoing operations. Al-Jalali emphasized the need for free elections in Syria, stating that the people should choose their representatives. He expressed readiness to transfer all government files to any leadership selected by the Syrian populace and pledged cooperation with any future leadership. The prime minister mentioned that Assad, in their last communication, responded to developments by saying, "We'll see tomorrow." Reports and videos circulating on social media suggest that armed opposition forces escorted al-Jalali from his residence to the Four Seasons Hotel in Damascus. He indicated that meetings are underway to ensure the continuity of government services, with other ministers confirming efforts to maintain essential services. The Minister of Industry stated that Syria is moving towards a phase of reconstruction, and the Minister of Communications affirmed that work continues under the prime minister's assignment. Al-Jalali's statements and actions signify a significant shift in the Syrian political landscape, as he aligns with opposition forces and calls for democratic elections.