Official announcements from the Syrian transitional government or international observers

Assad Regime Collapses After 50 Years, Rebels Control Damascus Amid Celebrations

Dec 13, 2024, 07:00 AM

The Assad regime in Syria has collapsed, ending over half a century of rule by the Assad family. Following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad, who fled to Russia, Syrian rebel forces have taken control of Damascus. Celebrations have erupted across the country, with Syrians expressing joy and relief at the regime's fall. However, the aftermath has also revealed the extent of the atrocities committed under Assad's rule. Thousands of Syrian prisoners have been freed from notorious facilities like Sednaya prison, known for its torture practices. Families are now desperately searching for loved ones who disappeared during the regime's tenure, with many bodies found in morgues showing signs of severe torture. The fall of Assad has led to a significant shift in the country, with Syrians returning from neighboring countries like Lebanon and Turkey, and a transitional government suspending the parliament and constitution to facilitate a power transition. The future remains uncertain, but the immediate focus is on reuniting families and addressing the legacy of the Assad regime's brutality. Over 130,000 victims of the regime have been reported, with torture practices described including physical and psychological violence, forced confessions, and mass executions. The rebels opened the prison doors, allowing families to search for their loved ones, and the transitional government has taken steps to revise the constitution and ensure a non-sectarian, inclusive government.