Sun Dec 08 02:52:20 UTC 2024: ## Syrian Rebels Seize Damascus in Stunning Offensive, Assad’s Rule Appears to End

**Damascus, Syria –** In a dramatic turn of events, Syrian rebels have reportedly stormed the capital city of Damascus and seized control of the notorious Saydnaya military prison, liberating prisoners. The swift offensive, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, has also resulted in the capture of Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, according to rebel sources. This leaves the Assad regime in control of only a handful of provincial capitals.

The lightning advance, which began approximately two weeks ago, has seen rebels seize major cities including Aleppo and Hama, and now Damascus. The speed and scale of the offensive have shocked observers, with little resistance encountered from the Syrian army. U.S. officials have confirmed that Iranian forces supporting President Bashar al-Assad have largely withdrawn from the country, and rumors of Assad fleeing have been denied by the government.

Rebel commander Hassan Abdul-Ghani announced the capture of Homs early Sunday, claiming government forces had abandoned the city. This victory cuts off a key supply line between Damascus and Assad’s coastal strongholds of Latakia and Tartus, where Russia maintains major military bases.

The situation is further complicated by Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and the weakening of Hezbollah, a key ally of Assad. Israel has also been actively targeting Iranian proxies in the region. President-elect Donald Trump has called for U.S. non-intervention, stating, “THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT.”

While the White House has confirmed it will not intervene militarily, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that the U.S. will continue efforts to prevent the Islamic State from exploiting the unfolding chaos. Thousands are fleeing the escalating conflict. The capture of Homs is considered a significant turning point, and analysts believe the fall of Damascus marks the likely end of the Assad regime’s 53-year reign. International talks are underway in Qatar as the situation continues to rapidly evolve.

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