Assad Loyalists Plot Uprising, Fueling Sectarian Tensions in Syria
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A Reuters investigation reveals former loyalists to deposed Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad are funneling millions of dollars to tens of thousands of potential fighters in a bid to destabilize the country’s fledgling government, threatening to ignite new sectarian violence one year after al-Assad’s fall. The schemes, uncovered through interviews with 48 individuals and a review of financial documents, come as Syria seeks to solidify its international legitimacy under President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
A Year After the Fall, Syria Faces New Threats
Syria is navigating a complex transition, marked by continuing challenges including Israeli military incursions and simmering sectarian tensions. This week’s visit by a UN Security Council delegation – a first for the nation – signaled growing international recognition of al-Sharaa’s efforts to stabilize the fractured country. However, the emergence of a coordinated effort to undermine the government casts a long shadow over these gains.
Rival Exiles Fuel Militias from Moscow
At the heart of the plot are two figures once intimately connected to al-Assad: Major-General Kamal Hassan, his former military intelligence chief, and Rami Makhlouf, a billionaire cousin. Both now exiled in Moscow, they are reportedly competing to build militias among Syria’s Alawite minority, the sect historically aligned with the fallen dynasty. Together, they are financing over 50,000 fighters in an attempt to secure their loyalty.
Hassan, who oversaw the regime’s notorious detention system, is actively rallying support from his Moscow villa. According to sources close to him, he relentlessly contacts commanders, outlining a vision for regaining control of coastal Syria – the Alawite heartland and al-Assad’s former power base. “Be patient, my people, and don’t surrender your arms. I am the one who will restore your dignity,” Hassan reportedly said in a WhatsApp message reviewed by Reuters.
Makhlouf, who previously used his vast business empire to prop up the al-Assad regime before a falling out led to years under house arrest, now presents himself as a messianic figure. The investigation suggests he speaks of an apocalyptic final battle and his eventual return to power.
Underground Command Centers and Weapons Caches
A key objective for both men is control of a network of 14 underground command rooms constructed near the end of al-Assad’s rule, along with associated weapons caches. Photos obtained by Reuters depict these facilities stocked with assault rifles, ammunition, grenades, computers, and communications equipment.
Financial records indicate Hassan has spent $1.5 million since March, claiming control of 12,000 fighters. Makhlouf asserts command over at least 54,000 fighters and has reportedly spent at least $6 million on salaries. However, commanders on the ground reveal a stark reality: fighters are paid as little as $20 to $30 per month and are receiving funds from both Hassan and Makhlouf.
Uprising Prospects Dim Despite Funding
Despite the significant financial investment, the prospects for a successful uprising appear limited. The two exiles are deeply divided, Russia has not offered support, and many within the Alawite community harbor mistrust towards both Hassan and Makhlouf.
Moscow, which granted al-Assad asylum, has shifted its focus to cultivating ties with al-Sharaa’s government to safeguard its vital Mediterranean military bases in Tartous – the very region the plotters aim to control.
Government Counter-Strategy and Regional Stability
Syria’s new government is actively working to counter these efforts, spearheaded by Khaled al-Ahmad, an Alawite and childhood friend of al-Sharaa who defected mid-war. His mission is to persuade former soldiers and civilians that their future lies with the new Syria.
Ahmed al-Shami, governor of the coastal Tartous region, stated that Syrian authorities are aware of the plots and prepared to address them. “We are certain they cannot do anything effective, given their lack of strong tools on the ground,” he said.
The revelations underscore the fragility of Syria’s transition as it confronts multiple challenges, including ongoing Israeli military activity and the need to address deep-seated sectarian divisions. The country’s ability to navigate these threats will be crucial in determining its future stability and international standing.
