In a shocking turn of events, Syrian opposition forces made significant advances across the country, leading to the reported fleeing of President Bashar Assad from Damascus. Rami Abdurrahman of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed Assad’s departure, with armed residents seen on the outskirts of the city and gunfire heard. The rebels captured the central city of Homs and entered the notorious Saydnaya military prison, marking significant victories.
The rapid rebel gains raised concerns about Assad’s rule, with little support from his allies and key players urging for urgent talks in Geneva for a political transition. The fall of Damascus would leave government forces in control of only two provincial capitals, with rebels led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group making unprecedented progress. Amid the chaos, civilians rushed to stock up on supplies, and borders with Lebanon were shut, leaving many stranded.
As international powers discussed the situation in Syria, calls for an end to hostilities and a political solution were emphasized. Rebel forces continued their march towards Damascus suburbs, with significant gains made in various cities across the country. The Syrian army redeployed in the face of insurgent advances, while opposition activists reported rebels entering Palmyra and other strategic locations. The situation remained fluid, with uncertainty looming over Assad’s fate and the future of Syria’s political landscape.
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