The swift fall of Bashar al-Assad‘s regime in Syria has taken the world by surprise. Opposition forces declared victory early on Sunday, capturing Damascus and forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee. This dramatic event marks the collapse of over five decades of Assad family rule and the end of a brutal civil war that began with peaceful protests in 2011. In this article, we will explore the events that led to the fall of the Assad regime, the role of Syrian rebel forces, and what might come next for Syria.
The Rise of Syrian Rebel Forces and the Start of the Offensive
On November 27, a coalition of Syrian rebel forces launched a major offensive against the government, marking the beginning of the Assad regime‘s rapid decline. The operation, known as Operation Deterrence of Aggression, was led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and supported by Turkish-backed factions. Their first major success came at the front line between the opposition-held Idlib and the neighboring governorate of Aleppo. Just days later, the rebels captured Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict.
Has All of Syria Fallen?
While Assad’s strongholds in Lattakia and Tartous remain under government control, much of Syria has now fallen to opposition forces. The rebels made rapid advances, seizing key cities like Hama, Homs, and Deraa, the birthplace of the 2011 uprising. Even the Syrian army‘s attempt to redeploy in certain areas, such as Quneitra near the Golan Heights, proved ineffective. The Syrian army was unable to prevent the collapse, and large numbers of soldiers abandoned their posts, further weakening the regime.
Why Did Bashar al-Assad’s Regime Collapse So Quickly?
The collapse of the Assad regime can be attributed to a combination of internal and external factors. Syria’s economy has been in ruins for years, exacerbated by corruption and reliance on illicit trade. The Syrian president lost the support of both his people and his soldiers, many of whom were unwilling to fight for a regime that had caused widespread suffering.
Additionally, military support from Russia and Iran, which had been crucial in keeping the regime afloat, became less reliable. Russia is bogged down in its own conflict in Ukraine, while Iran and Hezbollah have been weakened by Israeli airstrikes. This left Bashar al-Assad without the backing he needed to maintain control.
Where Is Bashar al-Assad Now?
As of now, Bashar al-Assad’s whereabouts remain unknown. According to Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali, communication with the president was lost on Saturday night, and it is believed that he fled via Damascus International Airport. The Assad plane reportedly left while the airport was still secured by the Syrian army, but soldiers abandoned their posts shortly after.
The Future of the Assad Regime
While the Assad regime has collapsed, not all government officials have fled. Prime Minister al-Jalali stayed behind, stating that he remains in office to ensure the continued functioning of the government until a new leadership is chosen. The opposition has promised a transitional government, with HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Julani asserting that public institutions will remain under the oversight of the current prime minister until they are officially handed over.
The Fall of Sednaya Prison and What’s Next for Syria
The fall of Sednaya prison, notorious for holding prisoners of conscience, marks another symbolic victory for the opposition. Thousands of detainees, many imprisoned by the Assad regime, were freed as HTS fighters stormed the facility. This move has been hailed as the end of the era of tyranny for many Syrians, particularly those who suffered under the brutal crackdown on dissent.
Looking forward, the future of Syria remains uncertain. While the fall of the Assad regime presents opportunities for a new era, analysts warn that the situation is fragile. Cooperation among various factions will be crucial in avoiding further conflict. Syrian President al-Assad’s absence leaves a power vacuum, and it remains to be seen who will lead the country moving forward.
Conclusion
The fall of Bashar al-Assad marks the end of a brutal chapter in Syrian history. While the Assad plane crash remains a topic of speculation, the collapse of his rule is a testament to the resilience of Syrian rebel forces and the desire of the Syrian people for change. As the world watches the unfolding situation in Damascus, it is clear that Syria’s future lies in the hands of those who now control the capital. Whether Syria can rebuild after years of war remains to be seen, but the departure of the Assad regime is a significant step toward a new chapter in the country’s history.
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