Mon Dec 09 12:42:56 UTC 2024: ## Assad Granted Asylum in Russia Amidst Syrian Collapse

**Moscow, Russia** – Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has been granted political asylum in Russia, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed Monday. The decision, made personally by President Vladimir Putin, comes in the wake of a stunning advance by opposition forces, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, that resulted in Assad’s fleeing Syria.

While Peskov refused to disclose Assad’s location and denied any planned meeting between Putin and the former president, reports suggest Assad was evacuated by a Russian plane from the Latakia airbase. The asylum grant raises questions about the future of Russia’s significant military assets in Syria, including the naval base in Tartous and the airbase in Hmeimim.

Peskov acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding these bases, stating that their future would be a subject of discussion with Syria’s future leadership. The Tartous facility is crucial for Russia’s Mediterranean operations, serving as a repair and replenishment hub and a staging point for military contractors in Africa.

The Kremlin’s announcement comes amidst growing regional instability. Peskov cited the ongoing situation in Ukraine and escalating tensions in the Middle East as reasons for concern. Russia is engaging in diplomatic efforts with Turkey and other regional actors to address the evolving situation, participating in discussions within the Astana peace process framework.

Israel, meanwhile, has taken steps to secure its border, launching airstrikes targeting suspected chemical weapons sites and long-range rockets to prevent them from falling into the hands of opposition fighters. The Israeli military deployed tanks into a demilitarized zone but emphasized its intention to remain outside the Syrian conflict. The swift fall of Assad’s regime has significantly altered the regional power dynamic, strengthening Turkey’s position and leaving Israel celebrating a strategic outcome. The long-term implications of Assad’s asylum and the resulting power vacuum in Syria remain to be seen.

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