Syria has been conquered by the rebels, who have taken control of the capital, Damascus. Reports suggest that Bashar al-Assad has fled the country. The rebels have claimed the Defense Ministry and taken charge of the public radio and TV buildings, symbolic sites for declaring a new government. Currently, the rebels are celebrating their triumph over the capital with aerial gunfire.
The Syrian army commanders formally announced that President Bashar al-Assad's 24-year dictatorship has ended and that Syria has been freed from Assad. Previously seen crushing all forms of resistance, Assad was observed departing to an unknown location in his special aircraft.
As rebels entered the capital, people began emerging from their homes to welcome them. Crowds gathered at various junctions in Damascus chanting 'Freedom', 'Freedom'. Rebel commanders announced the release of political prisoners, removing their shackles, and declaring the end of tyranny in Syria.
End of 50-Year Baathist Rule
Fifty years ago, Hafez al-Assad, Bashar's father, seized power through a bloody coup. In an official statement, the rebels declared, "After enduring 50 years of oppression, 13 years of crimes, tyranny, and displacement, we announce the end of this dark era on December 8, 2024, marking a new beginning for Syria."
This is not the first time Syria has witnessed such rebellion and upheaval. During the coups of the 1950s and '60s, the army first targeted the Radio-TV buildings before announcing a new government. Now, once again, the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS group) has replicated this coup.
Where is Bashar al-Assad?
Bashar al-Assad has reportedly left Damascus for an undisclosed location. Media reports, citing two Assad army personnel, suggest he fled by air to an unknown destination. Earlier, the government had denied his departure from Damascus. Assad has not been seen publicly in recent days.
Easing the Way for Liberation
The arrival of HTS rebels in Damascus caused a frenzy at the airport, with Assad supporters trying to flee the country. International media reports indicate that the Syrian army did not present significant challenges to the rebels.
Following the capture of Homs, the rebels were seen easily entering the capital, beginning the fight for control just a day prior. Within 24 hours, they reportedly reached the city with artillery-like weapons.
Prisoners Released from Jail
The rebels first seized the southern part of the capital, gradually moving into the main city and reaching its outskirts. In the meantime, Assad's posters and related statues were removed from villages and roads.
During their advance toward the capital, rebels liberated hundreds of prisoners from Sednaya Prison, declaring, "The era of atrocities in Sednaya Prison has ended." Sednaya, located on the outskirts of Damascus, is a large military prison where the Syrian government detained thousands.
Damascus Claimed in 10 Days
Over the last 10 days, the Syrian army lost key cities like Aleppo, Hama, and Homs to rebel control, with the army surrendering easily. Now, international media has released videos showing the Syrian army evacuating Damascus as well. Rebel groups publicly announced their entry into the capital. There has been no official denial from Assad's forces thus far.
