In a statement, Ahmad al-Sharaa asserted that Iran’s regional agenda has brought immense suffering to the people of the region, emphasizing, “We have no issues with the Iranian people, but the policies of their regime have been detrimental.”
He criticized former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, accusing him of making Syria a global hub for drug production and distribution. Al-Sharaa claimed that even Russia had grown increasingly discontented with Assad’s diminishing reputation and alleged that his factions had initiated dialogue with Russia to establish a fresh chapter in relations. “We have provided Russia an opportunity to redefine its role in Syria,” he said.
According to al-Sharaa, the recent political and territorial shifts in Syria were not sudden but the result of years of meticulous planning. He also noted that during the opposition’s advances in Syrian cities and regions, there was no mass displacement of civilians—a testament, he argued, to their careful strategy.
The commander further addressed Israel’s longstanding involvement in Syria, stating, “Israel has used Iran’s presence as a pretext for interference in Syria, but now, there is no longer any foreign intervention in the country.” He added, “There is no justification for Israeli interference anymore. We do not seek hostility with Israel.”
Al-Sharaa framed these developments as a turning point for the region, bringing an end to Iran’s influence and setting the stage for potential stabilization. He underscored that the transformation in Syria is a collective effort rooted in years of strategy and planning.