Watch: Syrian President struggles to open water bottle during UK event as female host helps, video goes viral

A seemingly awkward moment involving Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has gone viral after he was seen struggling to open a water bottle during a public event in the UK. The incident occurred during an on-stage conversation at Chatham House on Tuesday, where al-Sharaa was speaking with Director and CEO Bronwen Maddox.

In the video, the Syrian leader is seen attempting to open a flip-top bottle of water before handing it to Maddox, who opens it for him. Al-Sharaa then smiles awkwardly, drawing laughter and attention online.

The video quickly spread across social media platforms, turning the minor slip into a widely discussed moment.

Netizens react

The viral video sparked a wave of reactions online, with many users mocking the moment.

Some comments were sarcastic, while others linked the incident to the president’s background and public image. A few users joked about his inability to open the bottle, while others criticised the tone of such reactions.

“A goat herder from the bowels of Syria with a penchant for chopping off heads hasn’t the brain power to open a bottle of water,” one user wrote.

“He isn’t used to alcohol-like bottles,” another commented.

“Hand him an AK-47 and see his efficiency,” a third user said.

“This reflects someone who hasn’t been shaped by elite environments or polished media training,” another post read.

What he said during the interview

Despite the viral moment, the discussion focused on serious issues including Syria’s reconstruction, regional tensions, and foreign policy.

Al-Sharaa said Iran had played a major role in supporting the former regime in Syria but clarified that Damascus does not view Tehran as an inherent adversary.

He also warned that the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel is disrupting energy supplies and affecting the global economy, while urging a negotiated resolution.

On Syria’s stance, he said the country would stay out of the conflict unless directly attacked, adding that “14 years of war are enough” for the nation.

He also addressed border security and the issue of weapons transfers to Hezbollah, stressing the need to prevent smuggling and maintain stability.

On Israel ties and elections

Speaking about relations with Israel, al-Sharaa said attempts at engagement had been made but faced last-minute setbacks.

He also outlined plans for Syria’s political future, noting that a five-year transitional phase is underway and that groundwork has been laid for free elections, with the People’s Assembly expected to convene soon.