Opposition forces achieved a major victory by capturing Damascus and putting an end to the al-Assad family’s 50-year rule in Syria. The offensive, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, started in late November and quickly progressed southwards towards the capital. The last two days of fighting saw key areas such as Deraa and Sweida liberated, while regime forces in Homs suffered a significant blow as opposition fighters cut off al-Assad from his coastal strongholds.
On December 8, the opposition took control of strategic locations in Damascus, including the Mezzeh Air Base and Umayyad Square, prompting celebrations among citizens and the declaration of Damascus as liberated. Reports emerged of Bashar al-Assad fleeing the country, symbolising the end of his regime.
The success of the offensive was attributed to the Syrian Army’s lack of morale and leadership, leading to the collapse of government forces and the subsequent release of thousands of prisoners from the notorious Sednaya prison. Human rights organisations have condemned Sednaya as a “human slaughterhouse” where political opponents have been detained and mistreated for decades.
The fall of Damascus marks a significant turning point in the Syrian conflict, with opposition forces now in control of the capital and the country’s future uncertain. The people of Syria have shown resilience and determination in their fight against the oppressive regime, paving the way for a new chapter in the nation’s history.
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