Syrian President Bashar al-Assad vowed on Saturday to crush the rebel offensive in the country's north as forces opposing his regime made significant gains in the provinces of Idlib, Aleppo and Hama.
"We can defeat the terrorists," he said in a phone call with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, where the two leaders discussed "the latest developments in Syria and regional matters."
Al Nahyan reiterated the UAE's support for Syria in its fight against terrorism and its efforts to uphold sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability.
Assad also held a phone call with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, Syria's state-run SANA news agency reported. The leaders discussed recent developments and bilateral cooperation in combating terrorism, as well as broader Arab and international issues.
Al-Sudani emphasized the shared security interests of Iraq and Syria, expressing Iraq's readiness to provide Syria with support to confront terrorism and armed groups.
Earlier, opposition-aligned news outlet Voice of the Capital reported that Assad returned to Damascus following a visit to Moscow.