Syrians face new chapter as rebels capture Damascus and Assad flees

Syrians are facing a new chapter after rebels captured Damascus and President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia. This marks a significant shift after 13 years of civil war and over 50 years of Assad family rule. The rebel coalition, led by Hayat al-Tahrir al-Sham, aims to establish a transitional government. The fall of Assad reduces Iranian and Russian influence in the region and may allow millions of refugees to return home. Celebrations erupted among the Syrian diaspora, while concerns about regional stability remain. The U.S. continues to monitor the situation, conducting airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Syria.