Anti-regime forces capture Damascus, declare fall of Assad’s regime
Anti government fighters ride in the back of a pick truck in the town of Suran, between Aleppo and Hama, on December 3, 2024. (AFP Photo)
Anti-regime armed groups in Syria have taken control of the capital, Damascus, and announced the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
A video aired on state television confirmed that all prisoners held by the regime have been released.
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Details
- Damascus captured: Anti-regime forces have successfully seized control of Syria’s capital, declaring the collapse of Assad’s regime.
- Prisoner releases: The video also confirmed that all prisoners detained by the Assad regime have been freed.
- Anti-regime appeal: A spokesperson for the anti-regime called on citizens and fighters to protect the institutions of the “Free Syrian State,” declaring, “Long live the Free Syrian State for all Syrians.”
- Advances in north: In northern Syria, anti-regime forces made significant gains, capturing most of Aleppo by November 30 and securing full control of Idlib on the same day.
- Southern gains: On December 6, anti-regime groups recaptured Daraa city. By December 7, they had taken full control of Suwayda province.
- Homs province: anti-regime forces also made progress in the strategically important Homs province, taking control of the city center on December 7.
- Regime retreats: As anti-regime forces closed in on Damascus, regime troops withdrew from key locations, including the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Interior, and the international airport.
Why it matters
- These developments suggest the imminent end of Assad’s rule, which could dramatically change Syria’s political landscape.
- The ongoing success of anti-regime forces may lead to the establishment of a new government in Syria and alter regional dynamics.
The Syrian National Army’s operations against PKK/YPG terrorist forces in northern Syria have also played a role in the opposition’s military successes.
Several regions are now transitioning to independent governance, moving away from Assad’s control.
