Assad's retreat to Moscow marks turning point in Syrian conflict, says UK Foreign Secretary

Bashar al Assad has fled to Moscow after rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) advanced on Damascus, marking a significant shift in the Syrian conflict. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy described Assad's downfall as a "humiliation" for Russia and Iran. The UK government has paused asylum claims from Syria as the situation evolves. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the Home Office is closely monitoring developments, while Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for discussions with allies. In Syria, life is slowly returning to normal in some areas, with reports of celebrations. The government is coordinating with insurgents, and there are ongoing searches for detainees in notorious prisons.