Assad: No peace deal until ‘terrorism’ in Syria defeated

Syrian President Bashar Assad publicly endorsed Russian airstrikes in Syria on Sunday, saying there would be no political settlement until “terrorism” has been vanquished, a reference to opposition groups — some backed by the U.S.

“The only option for us now is to destroy terrorism, because implementing any solution or any political ideas that might be agreed on will need a state of stability. Otherwise it has no value,” Assad told Iranian news outlet Khabar, according to The Washington Post.  

{mosads}“Consequently, destroying terrorism is the foundation of any action in Syria. Political ideas can be implemented later,” he said.  

Russia began airstrikes in Syria on Wednesday, at first insisting they were aimed at the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). However, it has since admitted in the face of mounting evidence that they are striking anti-regime opposition groups that Russia considers “terrorists.” 

Assad also ruled out negotiations with Western-backed groups opposing his government as part of any political solution to the four-year civil war. 

“We pin great hope on this coalition now and on these international changes,” Assad said in reference to his regime’s coalition with Russia and Iran, whose forces are bolstering his regime. “Western officials are in a state of confusion, and their vision lacks clarity.”

Assad said he would continue to send representatives to Moscow-sponsored peace negotiations, as well as continue to participate in talks with Iran, both of which have gone nowhere. 

The Syrian opposition has also said it would not participate in those peace initiatives unless Assad agrees to step down. 

Assad also accused the U.S. and allies of supporting terrorism in Syria by arming, training and funding anti-regime rebels. He also accused the West of fueling the refugee crisis in Syria that has seen more than four million flee and eight million internally displaced. 

“In reality, they are the biggest contributor for reaching this stage by supporting terrorism and imposing a siege on Syria,” he said, according to The Guardian. “They attack terrorism, but they are terrorists in their policies, either by imposing the siege or by supporting the terrorists.”

Assad’s comments come as the White House is preparing to begin a new offensive against ISIS in northeastern Syria to place pressure on the terror group’s de facto capitol of Raqqa, according to The New York Times.

President Obama last week approved directly providing ammunition and perhaps arms to Syrian rebel forces to empower 3,000 to 5,000 Arab fighters and more than 20,000 Kurdish fighters. 

The president has also reportedly endorsed the idea of an increased air campaign against ISIS and helping rebels cut off Syria’s border with Turkey in order to disrupt the terror group’s supply lines to Raqqa.

The announcement comes less than a week after Russia began its airstrikes. The offensive was planned beforehand, the Times reported.