Assad Flees to Moscow as Rebel Forces Seize Damascus.

Rebel fighters patrol the streets of Damascus on a military truck, marking a new chapter in the city’s turbulent history. Courtesy image.

Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has reportedly fled to Moscow, where he and his family are expected to receive asylum, according to Russian state media.

Assad’s dramatic departure comes after the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) swept into Damascus over the weekend, marking a turning point in Syria’s long-running conflict.

Russia, a steadfast ally of Assad’s regime throughout the Syrian civil war, has agreed to provide refuge to the deposed leader. Moscow had long supported Assad through military and political means, but his departure signals the end of his grip on power in Syria. Assad’s arrival in Moscow follows swift rebel advances that left his government reeling.

The rebels’ triumph in Damascus was underscored by a public appearance from HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani. Addressing cheering crowds in an iconic mosque in the heart of the Old City, Jawlani’s speech symbolized the insurgents’ consolidation of power in the capital. For many Syrians, the sight of Jawlani in the capital was both surreal and a stark reminder of the changing political landscape.

On the ground in Damascus, BBC correspondent Feras Kilani described surreal scenes as jubilant crowds filled the streets. Celebrations were accompanied by looting as some Syrians ransacked Assad’s former residence. The fall of Damascus has unleashed a mix of euphoria and disorder, with locals seizing the moment to express years of pent-up frustration against the former regime.

The chaos in Damascus has also been punctuated by explosions, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that Israeli forces struck targets in the city. While Israel has not commented on these allegations, the incidents have added to the atmosphere of instability in the capital.

As Damascus adjusts to its new reality under HTS control, the world watches closely to see how Syria’s future will unfold in the absence of Assad.

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