Syrian rebels claimed victory today, announcing they’ve taken control of Damascus after a swift offensive. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the leading rebel group, declared the capital “free from Assad.”
Reports suggest President Bashar al-Assad fled the city early this morning, though his location remains unclear. Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali denied fleeing, stating he was still in Damascus and ready to work with any leadership chosen by the people.
HTS also said it was close to liberating Homs, with Assad’s forces offering little resistance. The group, which is considered a terrorist organization by the West, has made rapid gains across the country.
The fall of Assad would be a major blow to Russia and Iran, both key backers of his regime. The Institute for the Study of War stated that Assad’s forces have collapsed, with no immediate reinforcements arriving.
Russia, which maintains military bases in Syria, has not commented on the situation. The US is monitoring the conflict and has called for the protection of civilians and a peaceful resolution.
Nearly 300,000 Syrians have been displaced by recent fighting, with up to 1.5 million more at risk as rebel forces advance.
