Rebel fighters have claimed a significant victory by taking control of the Syrian capital, Damascus, as government forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad faced rapid defeat. This development marks a potential turning point in the 13-year civil war that has devastated Syria.
Hassan Abdul-Ghani, a senior leader in the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), announced the liberation of Damascus, declaring, “We declare the city of Damascus free from the tyrant Bashar al-Assad.” He encouraged displaced Syrians worldwide with the message that “Free Syria awaits you.” However, NBC News has not independently verified these claims.
The whereabouts of President Assad remain uncertain, with reports suggesting he may have fled the city. In contrast, Syria’s Prime Minister Ghazi al-Jalali asserted that he is still in his home and intends to stay, promoting a peaceful transition of power that ensures the stability of public institutions.
In an additional significant development, HTS announced the release of detainees held at Sednaya Prison, a military facility notorious for housing thousands of political prisoners. They celebrated this as a pivotal moment for the Syrian people, indicating a shift away from oppression.
The swift capture of Damascus by HTS has drawn attention to external support for Assad, previously bolstered by Iran, Russia, and Iranian-backed Hezbollah. President Joe Biden is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with regional allies.
This sudden upheaval in power dynamics follows HTS’s rapid advances in other major Syrian cities, effectively challenging the Assad regime’s long-standing rule. The situation in Syria remains complex, compounded by tensions throughout the region, including ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
HTS, which evolved from the Al Qaeda affiliate Jabhat al-Nusra, faces designation as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the UN. Their recent momentum reflects a four-year effort to enhance their military capabilities, making them a formidable opponent amid a protracted civil conflict that has claimed countless lives.
As the situation develops, it highlights the evolving nature of the Syrian conflict and the international implications of such shifts in power. There remains a flicker of hope for those advocating for peace and stability in the region. Many are watching closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the needs and well-being of the Syrian people, which has been sorely lacking during this long tumultuous period.