Syrian officials confirm Bashar al-Assad killed in plane crash after fleeing Damascus

Syrian officials have confirmed that former President Bashar al-Assad was killed in a plane crash after fleeing Damascus. This follows reports of a Syrian jet disappearing from radar shortly after taking off during a rebel takeover of the capital. The plane initially headed toward Syria's coastal region but made a sudden U-turn before vanishing. This incident marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict, as Assad's fate had been uncertain amid escalating violence. Rebels have declared victory in Damascus, stating that "Syria is free." The situation remains fluid as the country faces a potential power vacuum following Assad's reported death.