In a whirlwind of events 🌪️, opposition forces have captured Damascus, marking a dramatic turn in Syria's ongoing conflict. Early Sunday morning, the sounds of celebration echoed through the streets as fighters declared the end of President Bashar al-Assad's rule.
Appearing on state television 📺, a man in military attire, surrounded by armed rebels, announced \"Statement No. 1,\" proclaiming the fall of the capital. \"We have taken Damascus,\" he declared confidently.
The rapid offensive saw major cities falling like dominos over the past few days, culminating in the capture of Damascus at dawn. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, hundreds of government soldiers were seen abandoning their posts at Damascus International Airport, swapping their uniforms for civilian clothes.
Amid reports of al-Assad leaving the country ✈️, the atmosphere in the city was electric. Civilians flooded the streets, waving the pre-Assad era \"revolution flag\" 🇸🇾, symbolizing hope for a new beginning.
Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Al-Jallali called for free elections and expressed his willingness to cooperate with any leadership chosen by the people. \"Syria belongs to all Syrians,\" he said in a televised address. \"I urge everyone to think rationally about the nation's best interests.\"
Opposition leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammad Al-Julani, urged restraint among his forces. \"We extend our hands to every Syrian committed to safeguarding the country's resources,\" he stated. Al-Julani instructed fighters to avoid public institutions and banned celebratory gunfire, emphasizing a peaceful transition of power.
In a significant move, prisoners from Sednaya Prison were released as security forces withdrew, adding to the sense of liberation among the populace.
Flight data showed a Syrian Air jet departing Damascus, sparking speculation about senior government figures possibly evacuating. The plane's sudden disappearance from radar only fueled the rumors.
Earlier, the opposition secured a pivotal victory in Homs after a short but intense battle. The fall of Homs severed the link between Damascus and the coastal regions, marking a historic moment in the country's history.
\"The fall of Homs marks a historic moment,\" Al-Julani said, encouraging his fighters to show mercy to those who surrender. Thousands of prisoners were freed as security forces fled, reportedly burning government documents in their wake.
As Syria stands on the cusp of a new era, the world watches closely, hopeful for a peaceful resolution and a brighter future for its people. 🌍🙏
(With input from Xinhua)
Reference(s):
Opposition fighters capture Syrian capital following al-Assad's leave
cgtn.com
