Travis Timmerman, an American detained in Syria for seven months, has been freed and flown out of the country by U.S. military forces. His release came after rebels overthrew President Bashar al-Assad’s regime and liberated thousands of prisoners, including Timmerman.
Timmerman, who said he was on a Christian pilgrimage when he crossed into Syria illegally, was detained and held at the notorious Palestine Branch prison in Damascus.
While he reported being treated decently and not physically abused, he could hear daily instances of torture inflicted on other detainees. He noted that while he was fed and allowed out of his cell three times a day for bathroom breaks, the conditions were harsh, with strict restrictions on movement.
His release followed a dramatic takeover of the prison by rebels, who broke down his cell door. Video footage of Timmerman emerged online showing him resting under a blanket, with rebels assuring his safe return home.
Palestine Branch, infamous for its history of human rights abuses, has been criticized for using severe torture methods, including electrocution and beatings, as reported by Human Rights Watch. Timmerman’s liberation highlights the ongoing humanitarian challenges in Syria as the nation undergoes significant political upheaval.
Syrians in Damascus celebrated Monday, flooding Umayyad Square to mark the end of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The sudden collapse of Assad’s government follows a rapid rebel offensive that ousted the dictator after decades of rule by his family.
The Islamist-led coalition, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, launched the decisive attack on November 27, swiftly taking key cities before entering Damascus on Sunday. Assad’s grip on power crumbled as the army and security forces retreated. Rebels imposed a curfew, but citizens poured into the streets once it was lifted to celebrate what many called a new era for Syria.
Residents expressed relief and hope. Rim Ramadan, a civil servant, described the liberation as “indescribable,” adding, “We were afraid for 55 years of speaking, even at home.” Others echoed similar sentiments, including Abdelmonem Naqli, who prayed for Syria’s economy to recover.
The 13-year civil war devastated Syria, claiming over 500,000 lives and displacing millions. Assad’s rule began in 2000, succeeding his father, Hafez al-Assad, who built a regime infamous for silencing dissent through fear and violence.
Rebel fighters were seen securing the city as shops and institutions remained closed. Russian and Iranian support had previously helped Assad weather years of rebellion, but the Kremlin refused to confirm reports of his possible flight to Moscow.
Syria now faces uncertainty as it emerges from decades of Baath Party rule. Public sentiment in Damascus reflects cautious optimism, with residents eager to rebuild their lives and country. Whether the coalition’s Islamist leadership can foster stability and economic recovery remains a pressing question.
