Syrians Celebrate the End of the Assad Family's Half-Century Rule
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Loading... - Jenab Chan
- 09 Dec 2024
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On Sunday, crowds gathered in Damascus to celebrate the end of the Assad family's 50-year rule, marked by chants, prayers, and the occasional gunfire. This momentous occasion followed a stunning advance by opposition forces, raising questions about the future of Syria and the broader region.
According to Russia's Foreign Ministry, President Bashar Assad and other officials left Syria after resigning and engaging in negotiations with rebel groups. Russian state media later reported that Assad and his family had been granted asylum in Moscow. The ministry stated that Assad had given "instructions" for a peaceful transfer of power, emphasizing that Russia did not participate in the negotiations.
This development marked the first time opposition forces had reached Damascus since 2018, when Syrian troops regained control of areas surrounding the capital after a prolonged siege.
U.S. President Joe Biden described the fall of Assad as a "moment of history of opportunity," pledging support for Syria and its neighbors against potential threats. He declared, "At long last, the Assad regime has fallen."
Ahmad al-Sharaa, leader of the largest insurgent group, visited the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, proclaiming the victory against Assad as a triumph for the Islamic nation. He criticized Assad for turning Syria into a "farm for Iran's greed" and for facilitating the illegal drug trade.
Videos from Damascus depicted families entering the presidential palace, some emerging with household items. Mohammed Amer Al-Oulabi, a local resident, expressed his joy, stating he had not slept until he heard the news of Assad's fall.
However, the situation remains precarious. Lebanon has closed its land border crossings with Syria, and Jordan has also restricted access. The rebels now face the daunting task of uniting a country fractured by years of conflict and divided among various armed factions, including Turkey-backed opposition fighters and U.S.-allied Kurdish forces.
Iran, a staunch ally of Assad, called for Syrians to determine their own future without foreign intervention. The U.N. special envoy for Syria urged for urgent talks to ensure an orderly political transition. Meanwhile, France welcomed the fall of Assad, highlighting the suffering of the Syrian people under his regime.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock acknowledged the relief felt by many Syrians but cautioned against allowing the country to fall into the hands of radical groups. Thousands of jubilant Syrians celebrated in Berlin, expressing their happiness over the end of Assad's dictatorship.
As the situation in Syria evolves, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted airstrikes targeting Islamic State camps and operatives in central Syria. This operation aimed to prevent ISIS from exploiting the current unrest. CENTCOM reported striking over 75 targets with no indications of civilian casualties.
Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla emphasized the U.S. commitment to preventing ISIS from reconstituting in Syria, stating, "All organizations in Syria should know that we will hold them accountable if they partner with or support ISIS in any way."
The fall of the Assad regime marks a significant turning point in Syria's tumultuous history. While celebrations erupt in the streets, the path forward remains fraught with challenges as the country grapples with its fractured society and the threat of extremist groups. The international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful transition and a brighter future for the Syrian people.
