Statements from Bashar al-Assad or credible international news outlets

Syrian Rebels Seize Damascus, Assad Orders Peaceful Transition as Islamist Forces Take Control

Dec 8, 2024, 02:20 PM

Syrian rebels have reportedly overthrown President Bashar al-Assad, seizing control of Damascus and ending over 50 years of Assad family rule. Celebrations erupted in the streets of Damascus as the rebels declared Assad's ouster, marking a seismic moment for the Middle East. Assad's whereabouts are currently unknown, with reports suggesting he has left Syria and given orders for a peaceful power transition. The fall of Assad, described as a failed modernizer and a despotic ruler, comes after more than 13 years of civil war in Syria. Local riots in Qamishli have seen the destruction of Assad family portraits, and footage has emerged of looters storming Assad's home in Damascus. Islamist forces have taken control of Damascus, and President Trump has stated that the conflict is 'not our fight.'