Syrian Rebels Declare End of Bashar al-Assad's Rule
Damascus sees celebrations as rebels claim victory, marking a historic shift.
In a dramatic turn of events, Syrian rebels announced on Sunday that they have ended Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year rule, claiming victory in a lightning offensive that caught the world off guard.
In a broadcast on state television, rebels declared freedom for the Syrian people and the end of an era marked by decades of Assad family rule. Crowds flooded Damascus streets, chanting “Freedom” and waving flags, celebrating what they see as a new chapter for the nation.
The Syrian army command reportedly informed officers that Assad’s regime had collapsed, according to an unnamed source. However, the military later issued a statement saying operations against “terrorist groups” were ongoing in areas like Hama, Homs, and Deraa.
Rebel forces claimed to have entered Damascus without encountering significant resistance. Meanwhile, reports surfaced that Assad had fled the capital to an undisclosed location. Flight data showed a Syrian Air plane departing Damascus airport and heading toward the coastal Alawite stronghold before abruptly reversing course and disappearing from radar.
Speculation around Assad’s fate grew as two Syrian sources suggested the possibility of a plane crash, with one noting the aircraft’s transponder might have been deliberately switched off. “It’s unclear whether the plane was downed, but the sudden U-turn raises questions,” one source commented.
The rebels celebrated the release of prisoners from Sednaya Prison, a facility infamous for detaining thousands of political prisoners. “We celebrate with the Syrian people the end of injustice,” they announced.
Hadi al-Bahra, head of the Syrian opposition group abroad, confirmed that Damascus was “without Bashar al-Assad,” while Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali pledged support for the continuity of governance, signaling readiness to work with new leadership chosen by the people.
In Washington, President Joe Biden and his administration closely monitored the unfolding situation, engaging with regional allies to assess the extraordinary developments.
While the full implications remain uncertain, this marks a pivotal moment in Syria’s history, with hopes for a transition to a brighter future.
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