Bashar Assad flees Syria, ending 14-year rule amid civil war turmoil

Syrian President Bashar Assad fled the country on Sunday, ending his nearly 14-year rule amid a devastating civil war. His departure marks a significant shift after years of conflict that saw Syria divided and heavily influenced by foreign powers. Assad's government had regained control over most of Syria in recent years, despite ongoing Western sanctions. However, recent opposition advances in northwest Syria and a lack of support from his allies led to the rapid collapse of his forces. Assad's rise to power began in 2000, following his father's long rule. Initially seen as a potential reformer, he resorted to violent repression during the 2011 protests, leading to a brutal civil war that has resulted in nearly half a million deaths and widespread displacement.