Syrian President Bashar al-Assad left Damascus on a plane, rebels took control of the capital with no sign of army deployments. Rebels celebrate freeing prisoners from Sednaya prison, a large military prison where thousands were detained. The plane took off towards the coast but disappeared off the map. The head of Syria’s main opposition group declared Damascus without Assad. The rebels also gained control of Homs, leaving Assad’s rule in doubt. Gunfire was heard in Damascus, residents defied the Assad family’s rule. Residents of Homs celebrated by dancing in the streets and tearing down posters of Assad. The capture of Homs gives rebels control over strategic areas and symbolizes their comeback in the conflict. The rebel leader urged fighters not to harm those who surrender, and thousands of detainees were freed from the city prison. Protesters turned out in Damascus to demonstrate against Assad. Rebel forces continue to make progress towards the capital, with Assad reportedly still in the city. The Syrian army is reinforcing around Damascus, while rebels establish control outside the city. This is a developing story with ongoing updates.
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Bashar al-Assad, President of Syria, departs Damascus as rebel forces make gains
