A seemingly embarrassing moment went viral after Syrian President Ahmed Sala was seen struggling to open a water bottle at a public event in the UK. The incident occurred during an onstage conversation at Chatham House on Tuesday, when al-Sharaa was speaking to director and chief executive Bronwen Maddox.In the video, the Syrian leader attempts to open a bottle of flip-top water before handing it to Maddox, who opens it for him. Al-Shala then smiled awkwardly, drawing laughter and attention online.The video quickly spread across social media platforms, turning the small misstep into a widely discussed moment.
Netizen reaction
The viral video sparked a flurry of reactions online, with many users mocking the moment.Some comments were sarcastic, while others tied the incident to the president’s background and public image. Some users joked that he couldn’t open the bottle, while others criticized the tone of the response.One user wrote: “A shepherd from the heart of Syria loves beheading but doesn’t have the brainpower to open a bottle of water.”“He’s not used to bottles like alcohol,” another commented.“Give him an AK-47 and see how effective he is,” said a third user.Another post read: “This reflects a man who has not been shaped by an elite environment or sophisticated media training.”
What he said in the interview
While the incident attracted widespread attention, discussions focused on serious issues such as Syrian reconstruction, regional tensions and foreign policy.Sala said Iran played an important role in supporting the former regime in Syria, but clarified that Damascus did not view Tehran as an inherent adversary.He also warned that the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel was disrupting energy supplies and affecting the global economy, while urging a negotiated solution.Regarding Syria’s position, he said the country would not intervene in the conflict unless it was under direct attack, adding that “14 years of war is enough for this country.”He also addressed border security and arms transfers to Hezbollah, stressing the need to prevent smuggling and maintain stability.
On Israel relations and elections
Turning to relations with Israel, Sala said attempts had been made to make contact, but there had been setbacks at the last minute.He also outlined plans for Syria’s political future, noting that a five-year transitional phase is underway, the foundations for free elections have been laid and the People’s Assembly is expected to convene soon.
