Syrian army command tells officers that Assad's rule has ended, officer says
SUMMARY
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's 24-year rule has ended following a rapid rebel offensive that took Damascus by surprise. The Syrian army informed officers of the regime's collapse as rebels declared the capital "free of Assad." Assad fled Damascus to an unknown destination as the opposition seized control of key cities, including Homs, severing strategic links between Damascus and Assad’s Alawite stronghold. Thousands celebrated in Damascus, chanting "Freedom" after decades of Assad family rule. Rebels released prisoners and took over public institutions while asserting a commitment to maintaining order. The dramatic collapse marks a turning point in the Middle East, disrupting the influence of Russia and Iran, Assad's key allies, who were unable to offer effective support. The rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a group with Islamist roots, now face the challenge of transitioning to governance amid regional and international uncertainty.
