Damascus, Syria – Major General Maher al-Assad, the former commander of the 4th Armored Division and younger brother of President Bashar al-Assad, has issued a scathing statement vowing to liberate Syria from what he called the "al-Julani regime," with the support of Iraqi Shiite military groups.
“Terrorist groups cannot conquer a country. It is a black spot in the history of our nation when soldiers are shot right on the streets,” Maher declared, criticizing the erosion of Syria's territorial integrity. He questioned how Israel's occupation expanded under both his brother’s rule and now under the current regime, remarking, “The Israeli army has almost reached Damascus.”
Maher's statement reflects deep frustration with the current state of Syria. He lamented the destruction of the once-formidable Syrian army, now reduced to ruins, and accused the ruling factions of allowing the nation to crumble under foreign pressures and sanctions.
The fiery rhetoric from Maher al-Assad comes as Syria faces unprecedented challenges, including territorial loss, economic sanctions under the Caesar Act, and the ongoing dominance of extremist groups. Critics argue that the Assad regime itself shares responsibility for the country's collapse, with years of mismanagement, failed diplomacy, and an inability to respond effectively to both internal dissent and external aggression.
While Maher’s pledge to restore Syria’s sovereignty resonates with nationalistic fervor, it remains to be seen whether these words will translate into action. Observers note that Syria’s path to recovery will require not just military efforts, but also political reforms and a willingness to engage with all stakeholders in the nation's future.
For many Syrians, the hope for change remains clouded by skepticism, as fiery declarations alone will not rebuild a shattered nation.
