Assad regime falls as rebels capture Damascus in 12-day blitz
North News
New Delhi, December 9
The regime of Bashar al-Assad, which ruled Syria for over half a century, has fallen, marking a seismic shift in the Middle East. Rebel forces swept through Syria in just 12 days, capturing the capital, Damascus, and ending decades of dynastical rule. Assad, who fled the country amid the collapse, has reportedly been granted asylum in Moscow, according to Russian media. The UK based news outlet The Guardian reported that Assad’s departure a “warning to dictatorial regimes” that systemic abuses cannot be sustained indefinitely. Observers note the Syrian state imploded after more than a decade of brutal authoritarian control, systemic corruption, and state-sponsored violence that failed to quell dissent and instead deepened societal divisions.
While news outlet The Financial Times described the capitulation as a historic shock, underscoring the failure of Moscow and Tehran to provide effective support. Both nations are reportedly mired in their own conflicts, with Russia embroiled in Ukraine and Iran preoccupied with its 14-month confrontation with Israel. As Syria grapples with this turning point, analysts speculate whether the unleashed forces of rebellion will unify the nation or sow deeper divisions.
