Islamist Forces Declare Damascus Free from Bashar al-Assad Amid Ongoing Syrian War
In a significant turn of events in Syria’s civil war, President Bashar al-Assad has reportedly fled Damascus as Islamist fighters have entered the city, declaring the fall of his regime. Militia group Hajat Tahrir al-Scham (HTS) announced the takeover via social media, claiming it is a victory for the long-oppressed citizens. Syrian Prime Minister Mohamed al-Jalili has expressed readiness for a transfer of power. This resurgence of fighting marks a renewed escalation in a conflict that has displaced 14 million and resulted in over 300,000 civilian deaths since 2011.