Bashar al-Assad Ousted as Syrian President

Syrian rebels have successfully ousted President Bashar al-Assad after seizing control of Damascus, marking a significant shift in the region after over 13 years of civil war. Thousands of citizens celebrated in the streets, chanting for 'freedom' as the rebels entered the Al-Rawda Presidential Palace and released prisoners from detention. The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed Assad's departure from office and the country, stating he had ordered a peaceful handover of power, although it did not participate in the negotiations surrounding his exit. Reports also surfaced of a possible plane crash involving Assad as he fled. The rebel victory represents a critical blow to the influence of Russia and Iran, allies who had supported Assad throughout the conflict. A curfew has been imposed in Damascus as the new power dynamics unfold.