A day after the Russian Embassy in Damascus was hit by mortar during a pro-Russia demonstration outside the diplomatic headquarters, a statement puportedly from Islamist rebel group Jaysh al-Islam appeared on social media Wednesday denying any part in the attack.
Several rounds of artillery shelling rained down on embassy grounds in the Syrian capital Tuesday, in what onlookers say was likely a retalitory strike for Moscow's stepped up role in the conflict.
Like many other opposition groups inside Syria, Jaysh al-Islam hasn't been subtle about their stance on Russia's new power in Syria. Last month, the group declared war on any Russian soldiers they encountered fighting alongside Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government troops, according to the Middle East Eye. They were joined by several Free Syrian Army factions back then, who said they considered Moscow a foreign occupier inside Syria.
Though no group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, rebel and Islamist groups active in the suburbs of Damascus were suspected, since they've claimed attacks inside the capital before. Russian state television also said shots appeared to have come from suburb areas controlled by rebel groups. Among smaller groups, the area includes Jaysh al-Islam, FSA faction Al-Rahman Legion al Qaeda’s Syria wing al-Nusra.
Yet, the statement released by the group Wednesday brushes off the suspicion, claiming "ethical principles" prevented them from "targeting diplomatic missions or their headquarters." The statement also dismissed Russia's claims of combating a Daesh (ISIS) presence in the suburb city of Ghouta as "rumors."
Al Bawaba is unable to independently the authenticity of the English press release. But you can see the one that appeared on Twitter below.
Jaish al Islam refute Russian allegation of #ISIS in Ghouta and embassy shelling - @IslamAllousheng @ArtWendeley pic.twitter.com/NFclDTs3sh
— Conflict News (@Conflicts) October 14, 2015
