Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has left office and the country following a sweeping offensive by anti-regime forces that brought an end to his 24-year rule. The announcement was confirmed by Russia’s foreign ministry on Sunday, which stated that Assad had ordered a peaceful transfer of power before departing.
The Syrian government’s fall follows a rapid advance by opposition forces across the country, culminating in their arrival at the outskirts of Damascus on Saturday. Thousands of Syrians gathered in Damascus and other cities, such as Homs, to celebrate what they called the beginning of a new era. Chanting for freedom, residents filled public squares, with many declaring, “Assad is gone.”
While Assad’s location remains undisclosed, Russia stated that it was not involved in the negotiations surrounding his departure. Moscow affirmed it is in communication with all Syrian opposition groups and called for restraint to prevent further violence.
Russia’s military bases in Syria have been placed on high alert, though the Russian foreign ministry noted there was no immediate threat to their operations. Iran, another key ally of Assad, expressed its commitment to monitoring the situation closely while emphasising the importance of allowing Syrians to determine their own future without external interference.
Syrian opposition groups have announced plans to establish a new governing body, describing the current moment as a “new birth for great Syria.” The coalition of rebel forces issued a statement celebrating the transition, stating, “The great Syrian revolution has moved from the stage of struggle to overthrow the Assad regime to the struggle to build a Syria together that befits the sacrifices of its people.”
A curfew has been imposed from 4pm to 5am to maintain order during the transitional period. Syria’s Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali, who remains in the country, has pledged cooperation to ensure the continuity of public institutions and security for citizens.
The fall of Assad’s government has sparked widespread celebrations in major cities. Thousands took to the streets of Damascus, waving flags and chanting for freedom. In Homs, jubilant residents danced and declared the city free as government forces withdrew.
Saturday’s rebel advances marked the first time opposition forces reached the outskirts of Damascus since 2018, when Assad’s government recaptured the area after a prolonged siege.
As Syrians celebrate the end of Assad’s rule, the international community awaits the formation of a new government in a nation profoundly shaped by years of conflict and sacrifice.