Syrian government collapses as rebels seize control of Damascus, ending Assad family's 50-year rule

The Syrian government has collapsed after a rapid rebel offensive that captured Damascus, ending 50 years of Assad family rule. Celebrations erupted in the streets as crowds cheered the news, with reports indicating President Bashar Assad has fled the country. Rebels, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, made significant territorial gains, taking key cities like Homs and Aleppo. The swift advance began on November 27, with little resistance from the Syrian army, surprising many residents in the capital. In response to the upheaval, former pro-government organizations are distancing themselves from Assad. The Syrian Prime Minister stated the government is ready to transfer power to a transitional authority, while calls for unity and calm have emerged from various groups.