Rebels seize control of Damascus as Assad reportedly flees Syria

Rebels have taken control of Damascus after a rapid offensive, leading to the storming of President Bashar al-Assad's palace. Video footage shows people inside the palace celebrating as Assad reportedly fled the city by air. The rebel advance has seen key cities like Aleppo, Homs, and Hama fall in recent days, with the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group playing a major role. The situation marks a significant shift in the ongoing Syrian civil war, which began in 2011. The British government has expressed support for the apparent fall of Assad, emphasizing the need for a political resolution and protection for civilians. Former MI6 chief noted the rapid collapse of Assad's regime was unexpected for intelligence services.