Bashar Assad flees to Moscow after rebels seize control of Damascus
Bashar Assad, the ousted Syrian leader, has fled to Moscow after rebels seized control of Damascus, ending his family's 50-year rule. Russian media reported he received asylum following negotiations with rebel groups. Celebrations erupted in Syria as people took to the streets. Rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani declared Assad's fall a victory and emphasized unity among Syria's diverse communities. The rebels face challenges in healing divisions and maintaining security amid ongoing conflicts with various factions, including Kurdish forces and the Islamic State. Russia has called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting to discuss the situation. Meanwhile, Iran's ambassador acknowledged the military superiority of the insurgents, and Syria's Prime Minister expressed readiness for a transitional government.