Rebels move to establish government after Assad's swift ouster as UN Security Council meets on Syria

The UN Security Council met on December 9, 2024, to discuss the rapid overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, which occurred over 12 days. Diplomats expressed surprise at the swift change after years of civil war. Assad's prime minister has agreed to transfer power to the rebel-led Salvation Government. The transition is expected to take days, with Mohamed al-Bashir likely leading the new authority. The situation remains uncertain as the rebel alliance has not outlined future plans for Syria. Syria's banks are set to reopen, and the oil ministry has called employees back to work. Meanwhile, Israel has increased military actions in southern Syria, raising concerns among regional countries about stability in the area.