Full Breakdown
Syrian Exiles Plot Uprisings Against New Government
12/5/2025, 9:09:11 PM
Uncovering the Plot Against Syria's New Leadership
A recent investigation by Reuters has revealed that former loyalists of ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad are orchestrating efforts to destabilize Syria's fledgling government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The investigation highlights the activities of Major-General Kamal Hassan, Assad's former military intelligence chief, and Rami Makhlouf, Assad's billionaire cousin, who are reportedly funneling millions of dollars to recruit and finance tens of thousands of potential fighters. This scheme poses a significant threat to the fragile political landscape of Syria, which is still recovering from the civil war that led to Assad's downfall.
Key Figures Behind the Uprisings
Kamal Hassan and Rami Makhlouf are central figures in this plot. Hassan, who previously oversaw the regime's military detention system, is said to be making extensive efforts from his exile in Moscow to establish militias among Syria's Alawite minority, a group historically aligned with the Assad regime. He has claimed control over approximately 12,000 fighters and has reportedly spent $5 million since March to support their activities. In contrast, Makhlouf asserts he commands at least 54,000 fighters and has allocated around $6 million for salaries, although reports indicate that many fighters receive minimal compensation of $20 to $30 monthly.
The Stakes and Challenges
The ambitions of Hassan and Makhlouf include gaining control of a network of underground command rooms and weapons caches in coastal Syria, a region that was once a stronghold for the Assad family. However, their efforts face significant obstacles. Internal discord between the two exiles, a lack of support from Russia—which has shifted its allegiance to al-Sharaa's government—and mistrust among the Alawite community hinder their plans. Ahmed al-Shami, the governor of Tartous, has expressed confidence in the new government's ability to counter these threats, stating, “We are certain they cannot do anything effective, given their lack of strong tools on the ground.”
Official Responses and International Implications
The Syrian government is actively monitoring these plots and has implemented strategies to mitigate potential uprisings. The situation is further complicated by ongoing Israeli military incursions and rising sectarian tensions within the country. The recent visit of a UN Security Council delegation to Syria marks a notable moment for al-Sharaa’s administration, reflecting its increasing international legitimacy as it seeks to stabilize the nation.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the investigation indicates that Hassan and Makhlouf are attempting to recruit a substantial number of fighters, the effectiveness of their plans remains uncertain. Reports suggest that many fighters are receiving minimal pay and may be taking funds from multiple sources, complicating the loyalty dynamics. Additionally, the extent of Russian support for the new government versus the exiles remains unclear, as Moscow's strategic interests in Syria evolve.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Be patient, my people, and don’t surrender your arms. I am the one who will restore your dignity,” — Major-General Kamal Hassan
- “We are certain they cannot do anything effective, given their lack of strong tools on the ground,” — Ahmed al-Shami, Governor of Tartous
The unfolding situation in Syria underscores the complexities of its political landscape as the new government navigates threats from former regime loyalists while striving for stability and international recognition.
