In a significant turn of events, Syrian rebel groups have begun entering the capital, Damascus, signaling a potential shift in the long-standing conflict. The rebels have moved into the city without any noticeable presence of army deployments, raising questions about the current state of power in the region.
\"We celebrate with the Syrian people the news of freeing our prisoners, releasing their chains, and announcing the end of the era of injustice in Sednaya prison,\" the rebel factions stated, highlighting their commitment to humanitarian efforts amidst the chaos.
Amidst these developments, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was seen boarding a plane and leaving Damascus for an undisclosed destination on Sunday, according to two senior army officers. This sudden departure has left the city in a state of uncertainty.
Damascus International Airport has suspended all flights, and airport staff have been evacuated, as reported by AP. The suspension indicates heightened security measures and the volatile situation on the ground.
The rebel fighters also announced that they have secured full control of Homs, a key city approximately 140 kilometers north of Damascus. This marks the third major urban center seized by the rebels since their advance began on November 27, reigniting a conflict that had remained largely dormant for years.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, described the capture of Homs as a \"historic event that will distinguish between truth and falsehood,\" underscoring the symbolic and strategic importance of this victory.
The ongoing developments in Damascus and Homs indicate a potential resurgence of the Syrian conflict, with implications for regional stability and international relations. As rebel groups gain momentum, the international community watches closely for signs of a political solution to end the prolonged turmoil in Syria.
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Syria rebels begin entering Damascus amid calls for political solution
cgtn.com
