In a now-viral video, Syrian rebels were seen escorting Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali to a hotel, allegedly to facilitate a formal transfer of authority.
Watch the video here:
This development marks a significant turning point in Syria's long-standing civil conflict, culminating in the departure of President Bashar al-Assad from the capital, Damascus.
Rebel forces entered Damascus early Sunday, declaring the city "free from tyranny." Their statement, shared on Telegram by the Military Operations Command, said: "The tyrant Bashar al-Assad has fled. To the displaced all over the world, a free Syria awaits you."
Reports suggest that Assad, who ruled Syria for over two decades, has fled to an undisclosed location.
The rapid escalation follows the rebels’ capture of strategic cities, including Aleppo, Homs, and Daraa, within weeks. Damascus, long a bastion of Assad’s power, fell as the opposition secured control of key sites, including the notorious Saydnaya Military Prison.
Hadi al-Bahra, a leading opposition figure, announced that Damascus is now "without Bashar al-Assad," signaling a dramatic shift in Syria's political landscape.
International reactions
The global community is closely monitoring the situation. US President-elect Donald Trump weighed in on the crisis, criticising Russian President Vladimir Putin for "losing interest" in Syria amidst heavy losses in the Ukraine war. Trump highlighted Russia’s strained resources, stating that nearly 600,000 Russian soldiers were killed or wounded in Ukraine.
"Assad is gone. He has fled his country. Russia and Iran are weakened. This is an opportunity for peace," Trump wrote on Truth Social, urging immediate negotiations to prevent further devastation. He also called on China to play a constructive role in brokering a resolution.
Regional powers, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt, issued a joint statement calling for a ceasefire to pave the way for a political solution. Russia, meanwhile, advised its citizens to leave Syria using available commercial flights.
The rebels’ gains mark the resurgence of a conflict that had largely subsided in recent years. However, concerns are mounting over the stability of the region and the potential for escalating violence. For now, the world watches as Syria navigates this critical juncture, hoping for an end to years of suffering and a pathway to lasting peace.
