Rebels entered and captured Damascus with little resistance from Assad’s forces after a swift advance through cities in Syria. The surprise attack took many experts, including Russia, off guard. The conflict in Syria has been ongoing for almost a decade, with various international powers backing different sides. Many Syrians are celebrating the downfall of Assad’s regime, which has caused millions of people to flee their homes and seek refuge in other countries. The rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, face uncertainty as they navigate the post-Assad era, with concerns about the group’s past ties to extremism. The brutality of the Assad regime, including torture and executions in political prisons, has come to light as survivors are freed and areas like the Saydnaya military prison are searched for possible secret jail cells. Many Syrians in Europe, where a large diaspora exists, have rallied in support of the rebels and their fight against Assad. Despite some improvements in freedom, such as the relaxing of controls on women’s clothing, challenges and complexities remain as Syria enters a new phase without the long-standing Baath Party rule.
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