Rebel forces in Damascus have announced the capital city’s liberation from long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad after government forces withdrew. This development follows the rebels’ earlier success in capturing the city of Homs, signaling a significant shift in the 13-year Syrian conflict. Reports suggest that Bashar al-Assad, 59, has left Damascus by plane to an unknown destination, according to Reuters. The Syrian military has not yet issued an official statement regarding the rebel takeover or al-Assad’s apparent removal from power. Rebel Broadcast on Syrian State Television In a symbolic move, Syrian rebels aligned with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) used state-run television and Damascus Radio to declare the end of Bashar al-Assad’s rule. The broadcast called on citizens and fighters alike to “preserve the property of the state of free Syria,” urging unity across all sects and religions. “Long live Syria, free and proud. To all Syrians, whatever their sect,” the broadcast concluded. Social media footage also showed thousands of inmates being released from Saydnaya Prison, a facility infamous for the alleged torture and execution of al-Assad’s opponents. Abu Mohammed al-Julani, leader of HTS, announced that all public institutions in Damascus would…
