The commander of the rebel Free Syrian Army (FSA) was injured in a bomb explosion in the early hours of the morning on Monday, March 25 and was being treated in Turkey, Al Arabiya reported citing an FSA spokesperson.

“[Syrian President Bashar] Assad’s attempt to kill Riad al-Assaad was to punish the eastern areas, such as Al-Reqqa and Deir Ezzor, held by rebels,” Louay Almokdad said.

Riad al-Assaad was wounded in a bomb explosion near the eastern Syrian city of Deir Ezzor, which has in recent months witnessed fierce fighting between the rebels and forces loyal to the Assad regime.

Almokdad said that the FSA chief was in good health but his leg was injured, adding: “He is currently being treated for his injuries outside of Syrian territory, at a hospital in Turkey.”

The FSA spokesperson also said that it was not yet clear whether the bomb was planted in Assaad's vehicle or whether it was an explosive device thrown toward the convoy.

“No matter who they [Assad forces] kill, and no matter what they destroy, the uprising against the regime will continue,” Almokdad added.

According to the United Nations, the Assad regime has killed more than 70,000 people since the March 2011 uprising against the Syrian president.