Syrian rebels seize control of Damascus as Assad regime collapses

Syrian rebels have taken control of Damascus, marking the fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Celebrations erupted in the capital, with rebels looting Assad's presidential palace and destroying statues of the Assad dynasty. Assad reportedly fled to Russia, where he has been granted asylum. The collapse of Assad's regime has significant implications for regional powers. Russia and Iran, both key allies of Assad, face strategic losses. Russia is withdrawing its military presence, while Iran's influence in Syria has diminished as pro-Iranian forces reportedly leave the country. Turkey emerges as a major winner, having supported the rebels. Israel has also strengthened its position by establishing a buffer zone in southern Syria. The new rebel leadership promises a government chosen by the people, but concerns remain about the rise of extremist factions.