Assad Flees to Russia After Rebel Takeover

The recent collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria marks the end of over 50 years of Assad family rule, following a rapid rebel takeover of Damascus led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). President Joe Biden hailed the fall as a 'fundamental act of justice' but acknowledged the ensuing period of risk and uncertainty for Syria and the region. The U.S. plans to support the establishment of a transitional government while monitoring potential threats from ISIS. Assad has reportedly fled to Russia, and his Baath party has expressed support for a transitional phase in Syria. Despite HTS's Islamist leanings, its leader signaled possible tolerance for non-Muslims, though the future remains uncertain for Syria's Christian population. Biden emphasized the need for international cooperation to manage this historic opportunity while ensuring regional stability.