Syria’s capital liberated: Rebels topple Assad dynasty in historic victory

In a historic turn of events, Syrian rebel forces have captured Damascus, declaring the capital city “free” and marking the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Prime Minister Mohammed Ghazi Jalali has stated that his government is prepared for a peaceful transfer of power, signalling the end of Assad’s 24-year rule and the Assad family’s five-decade dominance over Syria. The rapid downfall of Damascus represents a seismic shift in the country’s political landscape, stirring speculation about the region’s future.

The rebel forces, a coalition of factions including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army, launched their offensive in late November 2024. Their coordinated operations rapidly overtook key cities such as Aleppo, Homs, and Hama, encountering limited resistance. By December 7, Damascus was encircled, and by the following day, government forces had ceded control, leaving the city to rebel forces.

Assad regime’s rapid collapse

As rebel fighters streamed into the heart of Damascus, the regime’s grip on power evaporated. Symbols of the Assad dynasty were dismantled, most notably the toppling of a statue of Hafez al-Assad in Ummayad Square. Local residents took to the streets in celebration, waving rebel flags and chanting slogans of freedom. The Prime Minister later confirmed that officials were in discussions for an orderly transition, urging for restraint and cooperation among all parties.

President Assad’s whereabouts remain unknown, though unverified reports suggest he fled the city amid the chaos. Analysts have noted that the swift collapse reflects internal fractures within the regime, compounded by diminishing support from international allies.

A blow to Russian and Iranian influence

The fall of Damascus is a significant setback for Russia and Iran, Assad’s staunchest allies. Both nations invested heavily in bolstering the regime through military and financial aid. However, Moscow’s preoccupation with its conflict in Ukraine and Tehran’s struggles with domestic unrest and regional tensions appear to have diminished their ability to sustain Assad’s rule.

Geopolitical experts suggest the loss of Assad as a regional ally will force these powers to reassess their strategic goals in the Middle East. Meanwhile, the United States and other Western nations have urged for a peaceful resolution, calling for unity among the rebel factions to ensure Syria’s stability.

Challenges ahead for Syria

Although the fall of Damascus represents a significant victory for the opposition, it ushers in a period of uncertainty. The diverse composition of rebel factions poses challenges to forming a cohesive interim government. While many groups have committed to democratic principles, others with Islamist ideologies may complicate consensus-building efforts.

Concerns over Syria’s chemical weapons stockpiles have also heightened, with international watchdogs urging for immediate safeguards to prevent misuse. The United Nations has called for comprehensive humanitarian support, emphasizing the need to address the plight of millions of displaced Syrians.

Expert perspectives on Syria’s future

Political analysts have described the capture of Damascus as a turning point for Syria, but caution that the country’s path to recovery will be fraught with difficulties. An expert on Middle Eastern affairs commented that rebuilding Syria will require “unprecedented levels of international cooperation, financial aid, and a commitment to reconciliation.” The international community is closely monitoring developments, with diplomatic efforts underway to support a peaceful transition.

As Syrians celebrate the end of decades of authoritarian rule, the nation now faces the formidable task of rebuilding its institutions, reconciling fragmented communities, and ensuring justice for war crimes committed during the conflict. The rebel leadership has vowed to prioritise these issues, promising a government that represents the aspirations of all Syrians.

The fall of Damascus is a defining moment in Syria’s tumultuous history, signalling the dawn of a new era. As rebel forces consolidate their victory, the focus shifts to the monumental challenges of governance, reconstruction, and reconciliation. For the Syrian people, the hope for a brighter future rests on the ability of their new leaders to navigate these complexities with wisdom and resolve.