In the recent scenario, Syrian rebels announced on Sunday that they had successfully ousted President Bashar al-Assad, marking the end of a 50-year family rule. The offence by rebel forces has triggered celebrations across the country, particularly in Damascus, where thousands gathered to celebrate Assad’s downfall and shout “Freedom” for the first time in over five decades.
The Syrian army initially denied the reports but later confirmed that operations against “terrorist groups” continued in key areas such as Hama and Homs. However, reports emerged that Assad had fled the capital, raising speculation about his fate, with some sources suggesting the possibility of his death in a plane crash.
Rebel forces, led by the powerful Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which was formerly affiliated with Al-Qaeda, took control of key cities, including Homs and Aleppo, and continued to advance southwards. Their swift gains shattered Assad’s regime, which had previously been bolstered by Russian and Iranian support. With Assad’s forces retreating, the rebels are now in control of Syria’s strategic heartland, posing a challenge to both regional and international powers.
Amid the turmoil, Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali called for free elections to allow Syrians to choose their future leadership. His statement marks a critical step toward shaping Syria’s post-Assad political landscape, though concerns remain about the influence of HTS in the transition.
The global community, including US President Joe Biden, is closely monitoring the situation, as the fall of Assad could destabilize the region further, especially with the growing power of Islamist factions. Many see this moment as an opportunity for a new Syria based on democracy and justice, though the path ahead remains uncertain.
Mazloum Abdi, leader of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, stated on Sunday via X: “We are witnessing a historic shift in Syria as the authoritarian regime in Damascus crumbles. This change offers a chance to establish a new Syria based on democracy and justice, guaranteeing the rights of all Syrians.”
