Assad family's rule in Syria ends as insurgents seize control of Damascus

The Assad family's long rule in Syria has ended as opposition insurgents took control of Damascus after 13 years of civil war. President Bashar al-Assad reportedly fled to Moscow, leaving behind jubilant crowds celebrating the regime's collapse. Rebel forces, including the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, advanced rapidly, seizing major cities and freeing prisoners. The Syrian army acknowledged the end of Assad's rule but stated it would continue operations against remaining "terrorist groups." The situation has raised concerns about regional stability and the challenges of uniting various factions in a war-torn country. The Syrian rebel coalition is working on establishing a transitional government amid ongoing clashes with other groups.