Damascus Presidential Palace press conference hall, brightly lit and crowded.
Journalists from major media worldwide filled every corner, their cameras aimed at the empty podium.
An atmosphere of tension and anticipation pervaded the air.
For the past three days, rumors have been rife about President Hafez being poisoned and critically ill, and the impending collapse of the Siria regime, making the suddenly announced press conference full of suspense.
At exactly ten o'clock in the evening local time, the side door opened.
Under the protection of a team of elite Presidential Guards, President Hafez, dressed in a smart military uniform (not hospital attire), walked steadily onto the podium.
Although his face showed slight fatigue, his eyes were sharp, and his stance was upright, a stark contrast to the rumored "critically ill" image.
The crowd instantly erupted into a huge commotion, a wave of flashing lights almost engulfing the entire hall.
