Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has fled to Russia after Islamist rebels swept into Damascus, ending his family’s five-decade grip on the country. Assad, 59, reportedly left Syria in the early hours of Sunday as rebel forces stormed his palace and took control of the capital.
According to Russia’s state news agency Tass, Assad arrived in Moscow later that day aboard a private jet. The Kremlin, a longtime ally of the Assad regime, has granted asylum to Assad and his family.
Rebels Seize Damascus in Stunning Victory
The rebel forces, led by Islamist factions, faced no resistance as they entered Damascus. Crowds filled city squares, waving revolutionary flags and chanting “freedom” amid celebratory gunfire. Assad’s palace was ransacked, exposing the opulence his family enjoyed during more than a decade of brutal civil war that left millions suffering.
Flames engulfed key government buildings, including the Interior Ministry’s criminal security branch, symbolizing the collapse of Assad’s rule.
New Leadership Emerges Amid Uncertainty
Abu Mohammed al-Golani, a former al-Qaeda leader who now claims to embrace pluralism, heads the strongest rebel faction and is positioned to lead the new government. Addressing supporters from Damascus’ Umayyad Mosque, al-Golani called Assad’s flight “a victory for the Islamic nation” and pledged to create a unified Syria.
“Syria is for everyone, no exceptions. Syria is for Druze, Sunnis, Alawites, and all sects,” said rebel commander Anas Salkhadi in a televised statement.
Despite these promises, the country remains fragmented, with ongoing battles between various factions, including Turkey-backed forces, Kurdish groups, and remnants of ISIS.
Liberating the Prisoners of Assad’s Regime
One of the rebels’ first acts was to free prisoners held in Assad’s notorious detention centers, including Saydnaya prison, where thousands were reportedly tortured and executed. Footage circulating online showed women and children emerging from cells, visibly shocked.
“This happiness will not be complete until I find my son,” said Bassam Masr, who had searched for his imprisoned relative for hours.
International Response and Uncertain Future
The Kremlin has called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting, while rebels assured Moscow they would not harm Russia’s military bases in Syria. President Joe Biden praised Assad’s overthrow as a pivotal moment for the Syrian people and pledged U.S. support during this transition.
Despite the rebels’ victory in Damascus, Syria faces a long and uncertain road ahead. The fragmented factions, external influences, and years of devastation pose significant challenges as the country seeks to rebuild and redefine its future.
