Biden calls for accountability for Assad as Syria faces historic opportunity for rebuilding

US President Joe Biden stated that deposed Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad should be "held accountable" following his overthrow by rebel factions. Biden described the situation as a "historic opportunity" for Syrians to rebuild their country and announced ongoing US military strikes against the Islamic State group. Biden emphasized the need for a transition to a new, independent Syria, while also acknowledging concerns about some rebel groups' past actions. He noted that the US will monitor these groups closely and remain vigilant against the resurgence of terrorist organizations. Assad reportedly fled to Moscow after the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group captured Damascus, leading to celebrations in Syria. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed hope for the Syrian people and reiterated the commitment to hold the Assad regime accountable for past abuses.