Sun Dec 08 15:22:37 UTC 2024: ## Assad Regime Collapses: Syrian Rebels Seize Damascus, President Flees

**DAMASCUS, Syria** – In a stunning turn of events, Syrian rebels have seized control of Damascus, ending the Assad family’s five-decade rule. President Bashar al-Assad has reportedly fled the country, his whereabouts currently unknown. The rapid advance of opposition forces, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, has shocked the international community and triggered a regional security response.

Rebels entered the capital early Sunday morning with minimal resistance, encountering little to no army deployment. Celebrations erupted across Damascus and other cities, including Aleppo, as citizens rejoiced at the fall of the Assad regime, known for its brutal crackdown on dissent and human rights abuses. The takeover included the presidential palace and the notorious Sednaya military prison, where thousands of political prisoners were held. Prisoners have reportedly been released.

The swift collapse of Assad’s forces has prompted neighboring countries to react. Lebanon has closed all but one of its land border crossings with Syria, while Jordan has also sealed a border crossing. Iraq has secured its border crossing at Al-Qaim. The UN special envoy on Syria is seeking urgent talks in Geneva to facilitate an “orderly political transition.”

Several key countries, including those participating in the Doha Summit, held emergency discussions regarding the situation. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed the collapse of the Assad regime, while the Russian Foreign Minister held talks with the UN envoy. The US is closely monitoring the situation, with President Biden reportedly in contact with regional partners.

While the Syrian opposition has declared its intention to establish a transitional government, concerns remain about the security situation. A curfew has been imposed in Damascus. The opposition has issued statements urging unity and cooperation, while also warning against looting and violence. The future of Syria remains uncertain, but the fall of Assad marks a significant turning point in the country’s long-running civil war. The impact on regional power dynamics, particularly Iran’s influence, is expected to be profound. Reports indicate that Hezbollah has withdrawn its forces from Syria. Furthermore, there are reports of Israeli military deployments in the Golan Heights buffer zone. The situation continues to evolve rapidly.

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