STORY: Syrian defense minister reassures nation amid Hama withdrawal, warns against disinformation
SHOOTING TIME: Dec. 5, 2024
DATELINE: Dec. 6, 2024
LENGTH: 00:01:17
LOCATION: Damascus
CATEGORY: POLITICS

SHOTLIST:
1. SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): ALI MAHMOUD ABBAS, Syrian Defense Minister
2. SOUNDBITE 2 (Arabic): ALI MAHMOUD ABBAS, Syrian Defense Minister
3. various of Syrian military operations in the Hama countryside

STORYLINE:

Syria's Defense Minister Ali Mahmoud Abbas delivered a televised statement on Thursday night, addressing the ongoing battles against militant groups and the military's recent tactical withdrawal from the city of Hama, emphasizing the army's readiness to reclaim lost ground and urging citizens to disregard disinformation campaigns.

SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): ALI MAHMOUD ABBAS, Syrian Defense Minister 
"We are engaged in fierce and continuous battles against the most extreme terrorist organizations, which employ guerrilla tactics. This requires our armed forces to adopt appropriate strategies, including advances, withdrawals, and redeployments."

The minister described the current field situation as "good," stating that the recent redeployment of forces outside Hama was a tactical measure to protect civilian lives.

Abbas accused militant groups of exploiting the army's withdrawal for propaganda purposes. "These terrorist groups are attempting to leverage the situation through a false media campaign aimed at spreading chaos. They may issue forged statements or use AI-generated videos to mislead the public," he warned.

He called on Syrians to rely solely on information disseminated through official national channels. "I urge our resilient citizens and soldiers to remain aware of these deceptive tactics and not to believe such misinformation," Abbas said, reiterating that the military's actions were part of a broader strategy to ensure long-term security.

The minister also expressed confidence in Syria's ability to overcome the current challenges. "With our army, people, leadership, and the support of our allies and friends, Syria is capable of surmounting any difficulties, no matter how severe," he said.

In his closing remarks, Abbas encouraged patience and unity.

SOUNDBITE 2 (Arabic): ALI MAHMOUD ABBAS, Syrian Defense Minister 
"We urge our people to remain steadfast and trust that we will not hesitate to restore security and safety to all areas occupied by terrorists. The Syrian Arab Army will remain the unyielding shield against any internal or external threats."

The address comes as Syria grapples with heightened conflict on multiple fronts, with fierce battles in Hama, Aleppo, and Deir al-Zour in the eastern region, as rebel groups push to gain territorial control.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Damascus.
(XHTV)