Rebels groups entered Damascus after taking the city of Homs. A war monitor and media reports said President Bashar Assad had left the country.

Damascus, Syria – The Syrian army command has reportedly informed officers that President Bashar al Assad’s rule has ended, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. News agency Reuters, citing military sources, revealed that government troops have been notified they are no longer in service.

Rebel forces entered the capital, Damascus, on Sunday morning, encountering no visible resistance from Syrian army units. At one deserted checkpoint, abandoned army uniforms lay scattered beneath a poster of Assad, according to reports from the Associated Press.

Celebrations in Damascus

The apparent collapse of Assad’s regime triggered widespread celebrations across Damascus. Thousands of residents gathered in the city’s main square, chanting “freedom” and waving flags. Videos circulating on social media captured scenes of singing, dancing, and jubilation, while calls of “God is great” resounded from mosques.

Opposition-linked media aired footage of a tank stationed in a central square as small groups gathered in celebration. Witnesses reported a festive atmosphere, with people flooding the streets on foot and in cars.

Assad’s Whereabouts Unknown

Reports suggest that Assad has fled the country for an undisclosed location, leaving behind uncertainty over Syria’s political future.

Rebels Proclaim “New Era”

Rebel factions have declared a “new era” for Syria. On Telegram, they announced the liberation of Damascus, stating, “The tyrant Bashar Assad has fled, and we declare the city of Damascus free.” They called on Syrians abroad to return to a “free Syria” and vowed to rebuild the nation after decades of Baath rule and over 13 years of civil war.

Prime Minister Ready for Transition

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammed Ghazi Jalali also addressed the nation, signalling his readiness for a leadership handover. “This country can be a normal country that builds good relations with its neighbours and the world… but this issue is up to any leadership chosen by the Syrian people,” Jalali said in a Facebook post.

He stressed the importance of preserving state institutions, calling them “essential for everyone.” Jalali, who was appointed prime minister by Assad in September, pledged to cooperate fully with any leadership chosen by the Syrian people and to provide all necessary support for a peaceful transition.

International Response

The developments in Syria have drawn global attention. US President Joe Biden and his administration are closely monitoring the situation, according to a White House statement. The National Security Council spokesman noted that the US is maintaining constant communication with regional partners.

As Syrians celebrate and the world watches, the fall of Assad’s government marks the beginning of a new chapter in Syria’s turbulent history.
Agencies