Syria news: In a historic turn of events, Syria’s decades-long Assad regime has fallen as rebel forces successfully entered Damascus, marking the end of a 50-year era of Baath party rule. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of this momentous development.
Key Developments
1. Assad’s Flight and Rebel Victory
The Syrian Army Command has officially informed its troops that the Assad regime has collapsed. Rebel forces confirmed that President Bashar al-Assad has fled the country, declaring Damascus “free” as they took control of the capital.
2. New Era Begins
Rebel leaders have proclaimed the beginning of a “new era” for Syria, marking the conclusion of what they described as “50 years of oppression under Baath rule and 13 years of crimes, tyranny, and forced displacement.”
3. Call for Return
In a significant move, the rebel leadership has issued an open invitation to Syrian citizens living abroad to return to what they’re calling a “free Syria.” As a symbolic gesture of change, rebels liberated prisoners from the notorious Sednaya jail, infamous for human rights abuses under the Assad regime.
4. Government Transition
Syrian Prime Minister Mohammed al-Jalali has pledged full cooperation with any new leadership chosen by the Syrian people. In a Facebook broadcast, he stated, “We are ready to cooperate and offer all possible facilities” for a smooth transition.
5. Institutional Stability
Rebel forces’ commander Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has taken steps to ensure stability by:
- Maintaining existing government institutions under the current Prime Minister during the transition
- Ordering military forces to avoid approaching government institutions in Damascus
- Establishing a framework for peaceful transfer of power
This historic transition marks the end of one of the Middle East’s longest-running authoritarian regimes and opens a new chapter in Syrian history. The international community watches closely as Syria begins its journey toward a new political era.
