Opposition Forces Capture Syrian Capital, Damascus

Rebel Fighters Convene in Homs as Syria's Army Announces the End of Assad's 24-Year Rule

Opposition Forces Announce Syria Free from Assad’s Rule as President Allegedly Flees the Country

Reports indicate that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has fled Damascus to an undisclosed location as opposition fighters advanced into the capital. This monumental moment triggered an outpouring of celebrations, with jubilant crowds filling the streets and public squares.

The fighters, now in control of central Damascus, have proclaimed a “new era” defined by unity and reconciliation. They have extended an invitation for Syrians abroad to return to their homeland.

Hadi al-Bahra, the leader of the Syrian political opposition coalition overseas, declared the capital “free of al-Assad” and extended his congratulations to the people of Syria for what he described as a historic victory.

Leadership Responses

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali, addressing the nation, stated that he has chosen to remain at his residence and is willing to cooperate with the new authorities. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the continued operation of public institutions during this transitional phase.

In a similar vein, Abu Mohamed al-Julani, the leader of the prominent opposition group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, directed fighters to refrain from targeting public infrastructure and services, aiming to maintain order and stability in the newly liberated territories.

Syrians Tear Down Hafez al-Assad Statue in Aleppo

Celebrations and Liberation

The fall of Damascus has ushered in scenes of unparalleled celebration. Witnesses have reported mass gatherings, with chants of “Freedom! Freedom!” echoing throughout the city. For many, this marks the end of over 50 years of authoritarian rule by the al-Assad family, beginning with Hafez al-Assad and continuing under his son, Bashar.

A key moment in the opposition’s advance was the liberation of prisoners from Sednaya Prison, a facility notorious for its harsh conditions and its symbolic weight as a representation of the regime’s oppression. The freeing of detainees mirrors actions carried out by opposition fighters in other cities captured during their recent rapid offensive.

Government soldiers, reportedly overwhelmed by the rebel advance, laid down their weapons, signaling the collapse of the regime’s military resistance. Early on Sunday, the army’s central command confirmed that al-Assad’s rule had effectively come to an end, according to reports by Reuters.

Strategic Victory in Homs

Hours before the fall of Damascus, opposition forces secured a critical victory by capturing the city of Homs, located two hours north of the capital. Homs, a strategic hub, was taken with minimal resistance, marking another significant blow to the regime.

The capture of Homs severed the logistical and territorial connection between Damascus and the al-Assad family’s strongholds in Lattakia and Tartus along the coast. This development has effectively isolated the regime’s remaining power centers and cemented the opposition’s dominance in Syria.

A New Chapter for Syria

The fall of Damascus and Homs signifies a turning point in Syria’s history. With the regime’s control shattered, the opposition faces the monumental task of rebuilding the nation and charting a course toward a more inclusive and democratic future. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but for now, Syrians celebrate what they see as the dawn of a new era.