Latest News from Syria Since the Fall of Assad's Regime

Key Events:

Capture of Damascus: On the night of December 8, rebel forces, including the group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), captured Damascus, declaring the fall of Bashar Assad's regime. Syrian Prime Minister Muhammad Ghazi al-Jalali stated his readiness to transfer power.

Assad's Escape: Bashar Assad fled Syria, as reported by the Russian Foreign Ministry, arriving in Moscow where he was granted asylum on humanitarian grounds.

Territorial Control: After Assad's fall, different factions began dividing control over Syrian territories. The Kurds, supported by the US, took strategic positions in the northeast, while pro-Turkish forces continue their offensive against Kurdish units in the north of the country.

International Reactions:

Turkey: Actively supports opposition forces, especially in northern Syria, aiming to prevent the establishment of a Kurdish autonomy.

Russia: Although previously supporting Assad, now focuses on maintaining its military bases in Tartus and Hmeimim, possibly seeking negotiations with new forces.

USA: Expressed concern over the potential spread of terrorism in a power vacuum but stated an unwillingness to intervene directly in the conflict.

Israel: Strengthened control over the Golan Heights, fearing a shift in the balance of power and increased influence of Hezbollah or Iran.

Humanitarian Situation: With the regime's fall, the Syrian population faces new challenges. Many areas in Damascus and other cities are experiencing looting and chaos. There are reports of mass releases of prisoners, including political opponents of Assad.

Military Actions: Despite announcements of the regime's fall, combat continues. Rebels and pro-Turkish forces are fighting with Kurds and remaining pro-Assad forces in various parts of the country, particularly in the north and southwest.

Outlook: There is a fear that Syria might follow in Afghanistan's footsteps, becoming a ground for terrorist groups to strengthen in the absence of a strong central authority. Syria's political future remains uncertain, with the likelihood of further fragmentation.