Rebels seize control of Damascus, forcing Assad to flee and ending Baath rule in Syria

Islamist-led rebels have taken control of Damascus, forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee. This marks the end of over 50 years of Baath party rule in Syria. Videos show rebels celebrating inside the presidential palace, destroying family portraits. Residents in Damascus celebrated in the streets, declaring the city free. The offensive began less than two weeks ago, led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. The group announced the end of a "dark period" in Syria's history. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 826 people killed, including civilians. The United Nations reports that 370,000 people have been displaced due to the violence.