Syria: Rebel Forces Seize Control of Damascus as Assad Allegedly Flees
Reports indicate that the reign of President Bashar al-Assad appears to be coming to an end, with sources within the Syrian military revealing that the army has been instructed to stand down. This development follows a series of successful advances by rebel factions, leading to a significant shift in control over the capital city, Damascus.
According to Abu Muhammad al-Dschaulani, the leader of the rebel coalition, the opposition forces aim to assume power through peaceful means. He stated that public institutions in Damascus would remain under the supervision of the former prime minister until an official transfer of authority is realized. Al-Dschaulani emphasized that military units must maintain strict distance from these facilities and refrain from any aggressive actions.
In a statement circulated via social media, rebel forces claimed that the tyrant al-Assad has fled, declaring that the capital has been liberated. They proclaimed that December 8 marks the end of a long-standing era of oppression that has afflicted Syria for over half a century, under both Assad and his father's regime.
The rebel coalition addressed the millions of displaced individuals due to the ongoing conflict, asserting that a free Syria awaits their return. As the news broke, celebratory scenes erupted in central Damascus, with residents reportedly applauding in the streets. Eyewitnesses shared videos online showing jubilant crowds climbing onto military vehicles and singing in celebration of the momentous occasion.
In a recent interview, Syrian Prime Minister Mohammed al-Dschalali called for free elections to allow citizens to determine the future leadership of the country. He has been in discussions with al-Dschaulani regarding the organization of a transitional period for governance.
The situation in Syria has drawn significant attention from neighboring Israel, which has deployed additional forces to the buffer zone on the Golan Heights in response to the evolving conditions. The Israeli military stated that this deployment aligns with their assessment of security needs following the recent developments in Syria. They assured that Israeli forces would not intervene in Syria's internal matters, remaining in place only as long as necessary for the safety of Israeli citizens.
Opposition leader Jair Lapid has called for a new regional alliance in light of Assad's ousting, suggesting that it should include Arab nations that have previously engaged in diplomatic agreements with Israel, such as the Abraham Accords. Lapid emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to address regional instability.
The so-called "Axis of Resistance," which comprises Iran, Syria, and various militant groups like Hezbollah, faces a significant weakening following these events. Lapid urged Israel to pursue comprehensive diplomatic initiatives that could extend support to areas like Gaza and the West Bank.
Since November 27, the Syrian civil war has seen a resurgence in conflict, prompted by an offensive by the Islamist alliance, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). In a remarkably short time, opposition forces have gained control over numerous cities, including Aleppo and Hama, with minimal resistance.
