Syrian rebels capture Damascus as Assad's regime collapses

Syrian rebels have reportedly overthrown President Bashar al-Assad's regime, capturing Damascus and several key cities, including Daraa and Homs, within 24 hours. This marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict, with crowds celebrating in the capital. Reports indicate that Assad fled the country as opposition forces entered Damascus for the first time since 2018. A group claiming responsibility for the takeover announced the end of Assad's rule and called for the protection of a "free Syrian state." In response to the rapid developments, Lebanon has closed most of its border crossings with Syria, while Jordan has also shut one crossing. The situation has drawn widespread attention and surprise from the international community.