Official statements from the Syrian government or reliable international news agencies

Plane Allegedly Carrying Assad Disappears Near Homs; Militant Group Claims Responsibility

Dec 8, 2024, 02:59 AM

Reports have emerged that a plane allegedly carrying Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has disappeared from radar near Homs. The aircraft, identified as an IL-76 transport plane with flight number SYR9218, departed from Damascus International Airport and reportedly lost altitude rapidly after passing over opposition-held territory near Homs before vanishing from flight trackers. The plane descended from over 3,650 meters to approximately 1,070 meters in a short period, with some reports stating it descended to as low as 100 meters. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the plane may have crashed or been shot down near the Syrian-Lebanese border, possibly by opposition forces. An explosion has been reported in the village of Al-Suwayri, west of Homs, where the plane is believed to have disappeared. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a militant group, has claimed responsibility for shooting down the aircraft. Flight data indicates the plane made U-turns over Homs before disappearing. Speculation is mounting regarding President Assad's whereabouts, with some reports suggesting he might have been fleeing the Syrian capital. The whereabouts and status of President Assad remain unconfirmed.