Syrian Prime Ministers Defects from ‘Murderous’ Regime

Riyad Hijab

Today the regime of Syria suffered its most serious defection when Riyad Hijab, the Syrian prime minister, left a “murderous” government and joined the opposition.

Hijab, who took office in June, was the most senior member to have abandoned President Bashar al-Assad. Four other Syrian diplomats who are in overseas embassies have also defected in the last month.

“I announce my defection (Monday) from the regime of killing and terror, and I join the ranks of the revolt,” said Hijab. The former prime minister accused the government of carrying out “war crimes, genocide, and barbaric killings and massacres.” (AV)