In an unprecedented show of unity not witnessed since the onset of anti-Assad protests in 2011, Syrians from various regions took to the streets on Friday, 25 August, demanding the ouster of Bashar al-Assad and advocating for their rights to a dignified and free life. The coordinated demonstrations, bearing the slogan “The Revolution is for All Syrians,” aimed not only to express solidarity with the recent southern uprising, particularly in Suwayda, but also to invigorate the spirit of revolution across different territorial divides.
Following Friday prayers, protests erupted in territories governed by the PKK-aligned Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the Turkish-backed Syrian Interim Government (SIG), the Idlib-based Syrian Salvation Government (SSG), and Assad-controlled regions. Amid these demonstrations, the Syrian revolution flag was prominently displayed, accompanied by chants demanding Assad’s removal, the release of prisoners, the exit of Russian and Iranian forces, and an end to the oppressive rule of the Assad regime. This unified stance against Assad, spanning all territorial boundaries, is unparalleled since the regime’s harsh suppression in 2011.
Rallies took place in provinces such as Suwayda, Daraa, Idlib, Aleppo, Raqqa, Deir Ezzor, and Hasakah, spanning over 70 cities and towns. Notably, major cities and provincial capitals like Suwayda, Idlib, Aleppo, Daraa, and Deir Ezzor were at the forefront.
UN representatives weighed in on the nationwide demonstrations. The UK’s envoy remarked, “Observing the protests in Syria, it’s evident that the Syrian spirit remains unbroken. I salute their bravery.” Meanwhile, French and German representatives voiced their solidarity, supporting the calls for justice and dignity. They also urged the Assad regime to exercise restraint and honor the citizens’ right to peaceful assembly.
While some attribute the recent uprisings to economic downturns and challenging living conditions, the chants were unequivocal. Phrases like “Step down, Bashar” and “The people want the regime to fall” dominated, but the movement wasn’t solely anti-Assad. A sense of unity resonated as crowds chanted, “United, united, the Syrian people are united!”
Speakers at various rallies emphasized that the Syrian opposition transcends religious and ethnic lines. Whether Alawite, Druze, Christian, or Muslim, Syrians stand united against the Assad regime, yearning for freedom, dignity, and a brighter future.
