Opposition forces take control of Damascus as Assad's rule ends in Syria

Opposition forces have taken control of Damascus, marking the end of Bashar al-Assad's 54-year rule in Syria. This rapid advance follows years of stalemate in the civil war, with reports indicating that Assad has resigned and left the country. Syria is now fragmented, with various opposition groups controlling different regions. The Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army dominate the northwest, while the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces hold the northeast. Internal conflicts among these factions may hinder efforts to stabilize the country. The fall of Assad raises questions for external backers like Iran, Russia, and Turkey. The U.S. faces challenges in managing its military presence and relationships with local forces, particularly if it withdraws troops. The future of Syria depends on the opposition's ability to unite and establish a stable governance structure.