Syrian rebels have declared victory in their long struggle to oust President Bashar al-Assad after capturing the capital, Damascus, marking a significant turning point in the country's 13-year civil war. This development ends the Assad family's decades-long rule, sending shockwaves across the Middle East.
The fall of Damascus also deals a major blow to COUNTRIES, Russia and Iran, Assad's key allies who supported his regime throughout the conflict. Iranian state media reported that the country's embassy in Damascus was stormed by rebels following the city's capture.
On Sunday, Syrian military command informed officers of Assad's departure, according to a senior official. Reports indicate that Assad fled Damascus for an unknown destination, leaving his regime in disarray. Rebels entering the capital found no organized military resistance, signaling the collapse of his government.
Celebrations erupted in Damascus as thousands took to the streets, chanting slogans of freedom and waving flags. The rebels also announced the release of political prisoners from Sednaya prison, a notorious facility on the outskirts of the city.
The rebel coalition, now tasked with forming a transitional governing body, has pledged to build a unified Syria that reflects the sacrifices of its people. However, concerns remain about the role of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the strongest rebel faction, which has links to Islamist militancy.
Joshua Landis, a Middle East expert, highlighted the challenges of rebuilding the war-torn country, emphasizing the need for Western support to lift sanctions and stabilize the region. While HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has expressed a desire for an orderly transition, fears persist about potential reprisals and strict Islamist governance.
Regional reactions have been mixed. Countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt, wary of extremist groups, have expressed concern about HTS's influence. Meanwhile, Israel may view Assad’s fall as a victory against Iran’s regional ambitions but remains uneasy about an Islamist-led Syria.
The whereabouts of Assad remain unclear. A Syrian aircraft, believed to have carried him, vanished from radar shortly after departing Damascus, fueling speculation about his fate.
As Syria faces an uncertain future, Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali has called for free elections, urging all factions to work toward a peaceful transition. However, with competing interests from domestic groups and international powers, achieving stability remains a daunting challenge.
The fall of Assad marks a critical juncture for a nation ravaged by war, with the prospect of rebuilding hanging in the balance. What does the future hold?
