Sun Dec 08 05:22:28 UTC 2024: ## Syrian Rebels Claim Damascus Fall, Assad’s Fate Uncertain
**Damascus, Syria –** In a stunning turn of events, Syrian rebel forces have declared Damascus “liberated,” claiming to have entered the capital and seized key positions, including the notorious Saydnaya Military Prison. A source familiar with the rebel advance told CNN that Damascus has “militarily fallen,” following a lightning-fast offensive that has swept across the country over the past week.
The rebels’ claim that President Bashar al-Assad has fled the capital is disputed by the Syrian presidential office and Iranian officials, who maintain he remains in Damascus. However, a CNN source with knowledge of the situation stated that Assad is not at his expected locations, and his Presidential Guard is not deployed at his usual residence. US officials have indicated to CNN that the Assad regime’s fall may be imminent.
The rapid advance has left the situation fluid and chaotic. Footage verified by CNN shows scenes of pandemonium at Damascus airport, with civilians attempting to flee the country amid apparent understaffing and lack of scheduled departures. Rebel forces are reportedly moving to seize control of state media offices to broadcast their victory announcement.
The rebel coalition, comprised of various Islamist and moderate factions, has achieved significant victories in recent days, including the purported “full liberation” of Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, and the capture of Aleppo earlier in the week. Residents in Homs have been seen tearing down posters of Assad, echoing scenes from the 2011 Arab Spring protests.
Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali released a recorded message expressing the government’s willingness to cooperate with any leadership chosen by the people, while urging citizens to protect public facilities. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the main rebel group, has also issued statements calling for the preservation of state institutions. HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa (Abu Mohammad al-Jolani) has publicly urged restraint and called for an orderly transition.
The swift rebel advance has raised concerns amongst US officials regarding the potential resurgence of ISIS, though White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated the US will focus on preventing this and supporting regional allies. The situation is being closely monitored by regional powers, including Israel, which is reinforcing its troops along the Syrian border. International organizations, including the UN, are also involved, with the UN special envoy for Syria calling for an “inclusive and credible” transition of power. The rapid collapse of the Assad regime has also sparked celebrations amongst Syrian exiles around the world.
The future remains uncertain, with multiple factions involved and the possibility of further violence. The unprecedented speed of the rebel advance, however, has significantly altered the dynamics of the long-running Syrian conflict.
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