Syrian President Bashar al-Assad reportedly left Damascus for an undisclosed destination on Sunday (8 December) as rebels claimed to have entered the capital, according to senior army officers. Government forces were seen abandoning the central city of Homs, accelerating the insurgents’ march across the country. The Syrian government denied rumors of Assad’s departure amid growing instability.
Following Assad’s exit, Prime Minister Mohammed al-Jalali expressed readiness to cooperate with any leadership the Syrian people chose. He emphasized that Syria could become a “normal country” with positive international relations. Jalali announced on his Facebook account that his government would assist the future leadership selected through popular will.
Rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa warned against approaching public institutions, stating they would remain under the supervision of the “former prime minister” until a formal transfer of power occurs. This measure aims to maintain order amid the rapidly evolving political situation in Syria’s war-torn landscape.
Syria’s 13-year conflict has seen extensive foreign involvement, with Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah supporting Assad’s regime against opposition forces. The war, originating from peaceful protests in 2011, has led to widespread destruction, half a million deaths, and Syria’s fracturing. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham leads rebel forces, labeled a terrorist group by the U.S., though the group claims to have severed ties with al-Qaida.
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