Politician Mohammed Alloush, who represents the new Syrian authorities and previously headed the Syrian opposition delegation at peace talks in Geneva and Astana, has stated the need to review the status of Russian military bases in the country. According to him, the decision on this issue will be made based on the interests of the Syrian people, as well as taking into account the strategic partnership with Russia.
Alloush stressed that the fate of the Khmeimim and Tartus bases in Latakia should be considered part of the sovereign right of the Syrian state. However, he added that any decisions would be aimed at ensuring benefits for Syria and stable interaction with the Russian side.
“As for military bases, this is a sovereign decision of the Syrian state, and this issue will definitely be considered from the point of view of the benefits and interests of the Syrian people, as well as the interests of Russia,” - he said.
This week it became known that the Syrian armed opposition took control of the province of Latakia, where key Russian military facilities are located. Sources say that the opposition forces did not invade the Khmeimim and Tartus bases, but their encirclement is a concern. At the moment, Russian ships and troops remain in the coastal zone, awaiting further decisions.
Alloush also spoke out against the creation of an Islamic state in Syria, stating that “the Islamic Ummah project is not suitable for the Syrian people and is harmful to them.” This statement underscores the new authorities’ desire to build a secular and independent state focused on national interests.
Russian officials have not yet commented on the Syrian government's statement. However, experts note that the review of the status of the military bases could affect Russia's long-term strategic presence in the Middle East. These bases play a key role in ensuring Russia's interests in the region, including control over the Mediterranean Sea and participation in the Syrian conflict.
The situation in Syria remains tense. Since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad, the country has been engulfed in political instability, and territorial changes have led to a significant redistribution of forces. The future of Russian-Syrian relations and Moscow's influence in the region will depend on further decisions by the new Syrian authorities and Russia's ability to adapt to new realities.