Syrian MoD says Idlib will return to state through reconciliation or military action

In a speech at the 15th session of the People’s Assembly, Syrian Minister of Defense General ‘Ali ‘Abdullah Ayoub addressed the current situation around the Idlib Governorate and other areas outside of the government’s control.

General Ayoub told the audience on Thursday that the Idlib Governorate will return to the state regardless of attempts by Turkey and the U.S. to keep the province out of Damascus’ control.

The Minister of Defense said that the armed groups in Idlib will either reconcile with the state or face military action.

General Ayoub would then turn his attention to the U.S.’ presence in Syria, which he called an ‘occupation’ and “violation of international law.”

He added the U.S. has been losing in Syria since the military retook most areas in Aleppo, Deir Ezzor, East Ghouta, rural Damascus, Dara’a, Hama, and Al-Quneitra.