New and unverified reports suggest a violent confrontation inside the Presidential Palace may explain the recent absence of Syrian President Ahmed Al-Shara, who had not been seen publicly since December 30.
According to a report by the Turkish news outlet Oda TV, claims regarding an assassination attempt against Al-Shara have surfaced following days of speculation. While footage was released yesterday showing the President shopping in an apparent bid to dispel rumors, questions regarding his whereabouts during the unaccounted-for six days remain.
Allegations of an Insider Attack
The explosive claims originate from Saleh Al-Hamawi, a co-founder of the Nusra Front and a former close ally of Al-Shara. The details were relayed by journalist Fehim Taştekin, known for his expertise in the region.
Al-Hamawi, often described as a former ideologue for the group turned fierce critic, alleges that Al-Shara was attacked while conducting a routine meeting at the Presidential Palace on December 30.
According to Al-Hamawi’s account as cited by Oda TV:
The incident began with an explosion followed by gunfire involving palace guards.
The clash reportedly lasted for 12 minutes.
Al-Shara allegedly sustained a chest injury from shrapnel and fell to the ground during the melee.
Reports suggest he suffered facial bruising, allegedly caused by being trampled during the ensuing chaos.
Abdurrahim Attoun, the President's advisor on Religious Affairs and Sharia, was reportedly seriously wounded in the incident.
The report further claims that Al-Shara was subsequently secured by a British protection team deployed from the Al-Tanf base. The incident was allegedly kept under tight secrecy to prevent political instability.
Growing Rifts with Radical Groups
These unconfirmed reports emerge amidst rising tensions between Al-Shara and hardline jihadist factions. Critics within these circles have accused the President of abandoning his former principles and falling under Western influence.
Hostility reportedly peaked following Al-Shara’s visit to the White House on November 10 and his decision to join the anti-ISIS coalition. Groups such as Ansar al-Sunna and Hurras al-Din (Guardians of Religion) have reportedly declared their intent to combat Al-Shara, labeling his shift in alliances as a betrayal of their cause.
Local Sources and Cancelled Plans
Oda TV also reported reaching out to a commander within the Syrian Ministry of Defense. While the official refused to provide specific details, he reportedly confirmed that "unusual events" had taken place at the Presidential Palace on the dates in question.
Additionally, residents living approximately 300 meters from the palace reported hearing distinct gunfire on the day of the alleged incident.
Further fueling speculation was the cancellation of a scheduled appearance. President Al-Shara had been expected to visit a church to offer New Year and Christmas greetings to Syrian Christians—a custom he had established in previous years. His failure to appear for this visit was noted as highly unusual by observers.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is based on reports from Oda TV and claims by third parties. Official sources have not confirmed these events.
Photo: SANA