Biden says Assad’s fall in Syria is a ’fundamental act of justice,’ but ’a moment of risk’

President Joe Biden addresses the collapse of the Syrian government under Bashar Assad, highlighting risks and uncertainties in the Middle East.

President Joe Biden said on Sunday (December 8, 2024) that the sudden collapse of the Syrian government under Bashar Assad is a “fundamental act of justice” after decades of repression, but it was “a moment of risk and uncertainty” for the Mideast.

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Speaking at the White House, Mr. Biden said the U.S. was not sure of Assad's whereabouts, but was monitoring reports he was seeking refuge in Moscow.

Mr. Biden credited action by the U.S. and its allies for weakening Syria's backers — Russia, Iran and Hezbollah. He said “for the first time” that they could no longer defend Assad's grip on power.

“Our approach has shifted the balance of power in the Middle East," Mr. Biden said.

Mr. Biden added that United States would engage with “all Syrian groups” over the political transition after the fall of president Bashar al-Assad.

“We will engage with all Syrian groups, including within the process led by the United Nations, to establish a transition away from the Assad regime toward independent, sovereign” Syria “with a new constitution.”