Syrian rebels capture Damascus and declare end of Assad's rule
Syrian state television reported that President Bashar al-Assad has been overthrown after a swift rebel offensive that captured the capital, Damascus, in just ten days. All detainees in jails have reportedly been released. The announcement marks the end of the Assad family's 50-year rule. A coalition of dissident groups urged fighters and civilians to protect the new "free Syrian state." Reports indicate that Assad has fled Syria, and the Damascus airport has been abandoned. The Syrian Prime Minister stated the government is willing to transfer power to a transitional government.