Syrian rebels declared victory over President Bashar al-Assad after capturing Damascus, ending over 50 years of Assad family rule and a 13-year civil war. Assad fled to an undisclosed location, while his military confirmed the regime’s collapse but claimed to continue operations against rebels in Hama, Homs, and Deraa. The fall marks a significant setback for Russia and Iran, Assad’s key allies, and raises regional instability concerns.
Thousands celebrated in Damascus as the Syrian rebel coalition began planning a transitional governing body. However, fears loom over the role of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a former al Qaeda affiliate leading the rebel advance. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has emphasized a structured transition to avoid Iraq-like chaos post-Saddam Hussein.
Key challenges include stabilizing captured regions, addressing fears of extremist rule, and navigating sanctions imposed by the West. Arab states like the UAE and Egypt remain wary of HTS, viewing Islamist groups as existential threats. Meanwhile, U.S. forces pledged to maintain an eastern presence to prevent an Islamic State resurgence.
Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali called for free elections, while talks with Golani signal steps toward shaping Syria’s political future. The transition’s success remains uncertain, with competing interests from Islamists, U.S.-backed groups, and regional powers like Turkey and Russia vying for influence.
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