Sun Dec 08 16:32:11 UTC 2024: ## Assad’s Regime Crumbles: Rebels Seize Damascus, Declare Victory in Syria

**DAMASCUS, Syria –** In a stunning turn of events, Islamist-led rebels have seized control of Damascus, forcing the long-standing Assad regime from power after a swift offensive. Celebrations erupted across Syria as residents swarmed the presidential palace, looting and vandalizing the opulent residence. Reports indicate President Bashar al-Assad has fled the country, although his exact location remains unconfirmed. Russia, a key Assad ally, claims he has resigned and left Syria.

The rebel factions, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), declared Damascus “free” after a lightning-fast advance that began less than two weeks ago. This marks the spectacular end of five decades of Baath Party rule and the Assad family’s iron grip on Syria. Footage shows widespread jubilation in the streets, with crowds tearing down statues of both Bashar and his father, Hafez al-Assad.

The rebels also reported releasing prisoners from several jails, including the notorious Sednaya prison, infamous for its human rights abuses. HTS fighters have reportedly entered and cleared several major cities, including Homs, previously held by Assad’s forces.

While the rebels broadcast their victory message on Syrian state television, the situation remains fluid. The White House confirmed President Biden is closely monitoring the situation, while President-elect Trump attributed Assad’s fall to the loss of Russian backing. Israel, meanwhile, launched airstrikes against Syrian army weapons depots, claiming the event as a victory against Iran and Hezbollah.

The UN envoy for Syria described the situation as a “watershed moment,” while various international actors are responding. Turkey called for a smooth transition, Iran expressed hopes for continued friendly relations despite embassy vandalism, and the US and Russia urged their citizens to evacuate. Jordan has also issued a similar warning to its citizens.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported at least 826 deaths since the start of the rebel offensive, including civilians, and the UN estimates that 370,000 people have been displaced. The rapid developments have left the international community scrambling to assess the situation and its implications for the future of Syria and the wider region. The veracity of some reports, including Assad’s departure, remains unconfirmed pending independent verification.

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