End of Bashar al-Assad’s Rule: A New Chapter in Syria

By Kardo Roj

QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Early Sunday, Syrian state television announced the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime after opposition forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), entered Damascus unopposed.

According to Reuters, senior military officials confirmed that Assad fled the capital aboard a private plane to an undisclosed location. The fall of the regime marks a turning point in Syria’s modern history, bringing an end to 50 years of Assad family rule.

A Coordinated Offensive

The regime’s collapse comes after a surprise military campaign launched by HTS and allied factions under the banner of the “Military Operations Administration.” On November 27, the opposition forces initiated an unprecedented assault, capturing Aleppo and rapidly advancing through other provinces, culminating in Sunday’s announcement of “liberating Damascus.”

In a statement posted on Telegram, HTS declared, “The tyrant Bashar al-Assad has fled. Damascus is now free.”

The group further stated, “After 50 years of oppression under the Ba’ath Party and 13 years of brutality and displacement, today marks the end of a dark era and the dawn of a new chapter for Syria.”

Interim Governance

The opposition leadership called on citizens to avoid government institutions, which will remain under the oversight of former Prime Minister Mohammad al-Jalali until their formal handover.

In a televised address, Jalali assured the public of his commitment to facilitating a peaceful transition. “I will remain in my home and support efforts to manage state affairs. I am ready to hand over institutions to any leadership chosen by the Syrian people,” he said.

Even pro-regime media outlets acknowledged the regime’s end. Al-Watan, a newspaper aligned with Assad, admitted to disseminating false reports under government directives in recent weeks. In a statement on its Facebook page, the outlet expressed gratitude for avoiding further bloodshed, signaling Syria’s readiness for a “new page.”

Global Reactions

The international community is closely monitoring the developments. White House National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett stated on X, “President Biden and his team are closely monitoring the extraordinary events in Syria and staying in constant touch with regional partners..”

Footage shared on social media showed the presidential palace on Mount Qasioun in Damascus deserted, heightening speculation about Assad’s escape route. While the destination of Assad’s flight remains unknown, rumors point to potential asylum in Russia or Iran.

A Legacy of Oppression and Conflict

Bashar al-Assad, who assumed power in 2000 following the death of his father, Hafez al-Assad, ruled Syria for 24 years. The Assad family’s 54-year regime is remembered for its brutal suppression of dissent, economic mismanagement, and systematic human rights abuses.

Under Bashar’s rule, peaceful protests in 2011 escalated into a devastating civil war, resulting in the deaths of over 500,000 people and the displacement of millions. The regime became synonymous with atrocities, including mass incarcerations, chemical weapons attacks, and the infamous Sednaya Prison.

Sednaya, located 30 kilometers north of Damascus, gained notoriety as a site of unspeakable torture and extrajudicial killings. Amnesty International once labeled it a “human slaughterhouse,” with the Sednaya Detainees and Missing Association estimating that between 2011 and 2015 alone, 30,000–35,000 inmates were executed.

On Sunday, opposition forces announced the liberation of Sednaya Prison, freeing the remaining inmates. The prison’s fall symbolizes the end of an era of systemic oppression that defined the Assad regime.

Economic and Humanitarian Fallout

The regime’s downfall comes amid a backdrop of severe economic crisis. Over the past month, the Syrian pound has plummeted, with exchange rates exceeding 30,000 SYP to the U.S. dollar. Inflation has skyrocketed, compounding the misery of a war-weary population.

Analysts attribute the economic collapse to the regime’s diminishing territorial control and its inability to maintain governance. Assad’s departure has raised hopes among Syrians for economic stabilization and reconstruction, though significant challenges remain.

Hope for Justice and Accountability

The fall of Assad has reignited demands for justice among Syrians, particularly for the victims of mass detentions and disappearances during his rule. Human rights organizations have long documented the regime’s extensive network of secret prisons, systematic torture, and enforced disappearances.

Assad himself faces an international arrest warrant issued by France, among other pending cases. Activists hope his escape will not preclude eventual accountability for decades of human rights violations.

A Turning Point in Syrian History

For many Syrians, the regime’s collapse marks the end of a nightmare. The fall of Damascus represents more than just a military victory—it signifies the possibility of rebuilding a nation fractured by decades of dictatorship, war, and suffering.

As Syrians celebrate the liberation of their capital, questions remain about the country’s future governance, reconciliation, and reconstruction. Yet, the overwhelming sentiment is one of cautious optimism.

Today, the streets of Damascus resonate with chants of “Freedom!” as the Syrian people look toward a new chapter in their history.