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.
The swift fall of Assad marks the end of an era, but the future of Syria hinges on navigating the challenges left in the wake of its brutal civil war.
