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 brutal civil war. His departure marks a significant shift after years of his government regaining control over most of Syria, despite ongoing opposition in some regions. Assad's exit follows a surprise offensive by opposition groups in northwest Syria, which quickly overwhelmed government forces. This change comes as Assad's allies, including Russia and Iran, were preoccupied with other conflicts and did not intervene decisively. Assad's presidency began in 2000 with hopes for reform, but he resorted to violent repression during protests in 2011. His regime has faced widespread allegations of human rights abuses, resulting in nearly half a million deaths and millions displaced during the conflict.