Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa has narrowly escaped three assassination attempts in the past seven months, according to a report by Israel’s Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper and confirmed by US officials. The attempts, which occurred between March and July 2025, highlight escalating security risks facing the embattled leader.
The first assassination plot unfolded in March 2025 as President Sharaa was leaving the People’s Palace in Damascus. Turkish security personnel, who assist in his protection detail, detected suspicious activity and intercepted the assailant before he could strike. The attacker was arrested and interrogated, but Sharaa reportedly ordered the incident kept secret to project an image of unwavering control.
The second, more sophisticated attempt occurred during Sharaa’s visit to Daraa province, near the Jordanian border. Syrian and Turkish security teams identified two armed suspects lying in wait. At the last moment, the President’s convoy changed its route, avoiding a potential ambush.
The most recent and nearly successful attack took place in Damascus, where a gunman had set up an ambush along a road frequently used by Sharaa. While full details remain undisclosed, the incident reportedly prompted the President’s sudden departure from the capital, raising speculation about the severity of the threat.
Thomas Barrack, the US Special Envoy for Syria and Ambassador to Türkiye, cautiously confirmed the attempts, emphasizing the grave dangers facing Sharaa.
“The threats against President Sharaa are extremely serious,” Barrack stated. “Ensuring his safety is critical to regional stability.”
The assassination attempts come amid rising tensions in Syria, where Sharaa’s government faces opposition from armed factions, foreign adversaries, and internal rivals. Some analysts suggest the attacks may be linked to hardline groups opposed to Syria’s recent diplomatic engagements, including its rapprochement with Türkiye.
Syrian authorities have reportedly tightened security protocols, increasing reliance on Turkish-trained guards and intelligence sharing. However, the repeated attempts raise questions about potential leaks within Sharaa’s inner circle.
With Syria’s political landscape increasingly volatile, experts warn that further attempts on Sharaa’s life could destabilize the region. The President’s ability to maintain control amid these threats remains a critical factor in Syria’s future.
More details to follow…
