Syrian rebels declare victory in Damascus ending Assad's rule after 13 years of civil war

Syrian rebels declared Damascus "liberated" on December 8, ending Bashar al-Assad's 50-year rule. This rapid change followed a surprise offensive by a rebel alliance led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which began on November 27. The offensive saw rebels capture major cities, including Aleppo and Homs, before encircling Damascus. Assad reportedly fled the capital as crowds celebrated the regime's fall. The Syrian Prime Minister indicated a willingness to transition power to a new government. The regime's collapse was influenced by weakened support from allies like Russia and Iran, alongside internal military challenges. Turkey's tacit approval of the offensive and Israel's strategic actions against Assad's allies also played significant roles in the rebels' success.