Syria begins new chapter as Assad flees and transitional government talks start

Damascus is experiencing a resurgence after President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia amid a militant takeover. Heavy traffic returned to the streets, but many shops remain closed as discussions for a transitional government begin. Militant leader Ahmed al-Sharaa met with Assad's former officials to plan a new authority, likely led by Mohamed Al-Bashir. Syria's banks are set to reopen, and political prisoners have begun to be released, marking a significant shift from Assad's long rule. Israel and the U.S. have launched strikes in Syria, targeting military assets to prevent them from falling into hostile hands. The situation remains fluid as the region adjusts to the collapse of Assad's government.