Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has reportedly fled the country with his family following rebel forces’ entry into Damascus, signaling the potential collapse of his regime. Syrian state television confirmed that Assad, his British-born wife, Asma, and their children have left Syria, though their destination remains unknown.
Syria’s 13-year civil war, ignited by the Arab Spring uprisings, has been marked by Assad’s brutal crackdown, including chemical weapon attacks on civilians. While Russian and Iranian support once bolstered Assad, recent rebel advances and weakened Russian influence have shifted the balance of power. A coalition of rebel forces, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has been pivotal in these developments.
This marks a significant turning point in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Assad’s departure follows diplomatic pressure from regional powers urging him to form a government-in-exile, although official involvement remains unclear. The developments highlight the shifting dynamics in Syria’s long and devastating conflict.