Syrian rebels have claimed victory in capturing the capital city of Damascus, leading to the fall of the Assad regime. Prime Minister Ghazi al-Jalali has called for free elections to be held in the country. The Israeli military has stated that they do not intervene in Syrian events but have deployed forces in defense. Rebel forces have appeared on Syrian state TV, announcing the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad and the release of all detainees. In a symbolic moment, a statue of Assad’s father, Hafez, has been trampled by people in Damascus. The Guardian has described the events in Syria as a “Berlin Wall moment” marking the end of the Assad regime’s 54-year rule. President Bashar al-Assad has reportedly fled the country as rebels celebrate in the streets of Homs and Damascus. The Syrian war has resulted in the deaths of nearly half a million people and displaced millions. Residents of Damascus are rejoicing the end of the Assad rule, with some calling him a criminal and a tyrant. Syria’s White Helmets have also released a statement celebrating the historic day in Syria. The mood in Damascus is described as jubilant, with people celebrating in the streets after rebel forces claimed control of the city. Television footage shows rebels firing celebratory rounds and climbing on tanks to chant, marking a stunning end to the Assad family’s rule.
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Live Updates: Syrian rebels claim capture of Damascus, report Bashar al-Assad’s flight – Middle East and North Africa
