Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's Disappearance Sparks Concern Among Supporters Amid Rumors of Military Coup
Concerns are rising over President Bashar al-Assad's fate amid rumors of a military coup as opposition forces make gains in Syria. Clashes in Damascus signal instability, with conflicting reports about Assad's whereabouts. The situation is precarious, with possibilities ranging from a coup to increased chaos as tensions escalate.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
As the situation in Syria continues to unfold, concerns are growing about the fate of President Bashar al-Assad, with rumors circulating about a possible military coup and his whereabouts. The developments come as the opposition makes gains in several regions, and clashes erupt in Damascus between government forces, reflecting a state of instability.
Rumors of Military Coup
Reports have emerged of a possible military coup in Syria, with security expert Rasslan Tarrad citing reports of battles between the Fourth Division, led by Maher al-Assad, and the Republican Guard in Damascus. Tarrad added that Maher al-Assad may launch a military campaign to regain control of areas lost by the regime in the north and center.
Turkish journalist Rajib Soylu quoted a high-ranking military source as saying that some Syrian officers may be planning a coup to stop the rapid advance of opposition forces, as Damascus witnessed gunfire near government buildings and reports of increased military movements.
Assad's Whereabouts
There are conflicting reports about Assad's location, with Charles Lister, director of the Middle East Institute, suggesting that he is in Moscow with family members, while other reports indicate that he returned to Damascus on Saturday on a Russian plane.
A pro-opposition channel reported that Assad returned to Syria hours earlier, increasing tensions within the Syrian regime. However, Iranian news agency Tasnim denied rumors of a coup, confirming that the situation in Damascus is stable.
Clashes in Damascus
Damascus witnessed an exchange of gunfire in the Kfar Sousse area on Saturday, with reports of clashes between the Republican Guard and the Fourth Division, and local sources reported attempts by Brigadier General Hossam Louqa to overthrow Assad during his absence from the country.
Opposition Gains
Meanwhile, opposition groups have taken control of large areas in the north, with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham capturing 26 towns and cities in northern Hama, as well as strategic areas in Aleppo.
Government Media Disrupted
The official Syrian TV network "SANA" stopped broadcasting on Saturday evening, and the official news agency's website became inaccessible, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the internal situation.
Uncertainty and Instability
As the situation in Syria continues to unfold, the country remains open to all possibilities, between rumors of a coup and ongoing military tensions that threaten to plunge the country into further chaos.
Table: Key Players in the Syrian Conflict
Player
Position
Goals
Bashar al-Assad
Syrian President
Maintain power, crush opposition
Opposition groups
Rebel forces
Oust Assad, establish democratic government
Maher al-Assad
Head of Fourth Division
Regain control of lost areas, maintain regime's power
Republican Guard
Elite military unit
Protect Assad, maintain regime's power
List: Possible Outcomes in Syria
- Military Coup: A successful coup could lead to the overthrow of Assad and the establishment of a new government.
- Opposition Victory: The opposition's continued gains could lead to the eventual defeat of the regime and the establishment of a democratic government.
- Regime Consolidation: Assad's regime could consolidate its power and maintain control over the country.
- Increased Instability: The ongoing tensions and clashes could lead to further instability and chaos in the country.
