Former Syrian Vice President Abdel Halim Khaddam argues that Arab and foreign countries are mistaken in their belief that the army could play a role in toppling the Assad regime. During an interview with American “Radio Sawa,” Khaddam explained that the Free Syrian Army consists of a few hundred personnel, which pales in comparison to the regime’s military might—300,000 soldiers, thousands of tanks, and hundreds of aircraft.
Khaddam candidly expressed his admiration for the patriotism and motivation of these officers but emphasized their limitations, stating, “Honestly, these officers, while I appreciate their patriotism and motivation, are incapable. They represent a small faction scattered abroad rather than a cohesive army.”
He further contended that Syria’s liberation must come from within, not from external forces. Khaddam highlighted the imbalance of power within Syria, noting, “The regime boasts 300 thousand soldiers, four thousand tanks, and hundreds of aircraft, while the Free Army lacks even the means for self-defense. This discrepancy creates an unjust situation for the Free Army.”
