What do we know about rumors of a military coup in Syria?
An anti-government fighter tears down a portrait of Syria's President Bashar al-Assad in Aleppo, on November 30, 2024. (AFP Photo)
Reports have emerged suggesting an ongoing coup attempt against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus, though these claims remain unconfirmed.
Social media has been abuzz with speculation following numerous reports of a potential military coup targeting the president.
Incoming reports about the coup attempt in Syria
Charles Lister, Director of the Middle East Institute shared along with many others.
Douglas Macgregor, U.S. Army Colonel Retired Combat Veteran who made comments about Syria before also claimed similarly and stated, “Reports emerging of military coup currently underway in Syria… Heavy gunfire on the ground…”
Syrian Journalist Mazen Hassoun also claimed, “Syrian Rebels: Police officers, army personnel, and division commanders within regime forces are contacting us to coordinate their control over Syria.”
“This confirmes that there a military coup is underway!!” Hassoun said.
Reports of clashes in Damascus, Syria
Regime sources report that units under the command of 4th Division leader Maher al-Assad are engaged in clashes with unidentified individuals in the Damascus area.
Security Researcher at AtlanticCouncil’s DFRLab, Ruslan Trad have also mentioned that that there are reports of ongoing coup in Damascus.
“The situation in Syria is becoming increasingly dynamic. There are reports of fighting in Damascus between the Republican Guard and Maher Assad’s Fourth Division. If Maher al-Assad takes power in a coup, he is likely to unleash a heavy military campaign to bring the seized areas back under control.” Trad said.
However, Kim Ghattas, a contributing editor at the Financial Times, countered these claims, stating that footage circulating on social media is outdated and that the situation in the area is currently quiet.
