Syria celebrates as Bashar al-Assad flees to Moscow following rebel offensive

Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria, with reports indicating he is now in Moscow. This follows a rapid offensive by Islamist-led rebels who declared the end of his rule, leading to widespread celebrations in Damascus and other cities. Rebels captured key cities, including Homs, and freed prisoners, marking a significant shift after over five decades of Assad's leadership. The UN described this moment as a "historic new beginning" for Syria. As crowds celebrated, they toppled statues of Assad's father and looted his home. The situation remains fluid, with rebel factions urging citizens to protect the newly declared "free Syrian state."