The Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) declared Syria "liberated" on Sunday following the escape of President Bashar al-Assad from the capital, Damascus. The group announced this milestone as marking the end of an "era of darkness" and the beginning of a "new Syria."

In a statement posted on Telegram, HTS proclaimed, "The tyrant Bashar al-Assad has fled. This marks the end of a dark chapter in Syria’s history and the dawn of a new era." They further pledged that displaced Syrians and those imprisoned under Assad’s regime could now return home, emphasizing their vision of a just and peaceful nation.

HTS leader Mohammad al-Jolani issued a message to rebel forces, urging them to treat civilians in newly captured areas with respect and dignity. He reiterated an offer of general amnesty to government forces willing to lay down their arms.

Reports indicate that President Assad departed Damascus early Sunday morning aboard a private aircraft from the Damascus International Airport. Eyewitness accounts and the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) suggested Assad's escape occurred as rebel forces began advancing toward the capital following their capture of Homs. Government troops reportedly bid farewell to the departing plane, which flew off to an undisclosed location.

The fall of Homs marked a critical turning point in the conflict, enabling rebel fighters to move into Damascus with minimal resistance. Local sources reported that government troops had abandoned key positions surrounding the capital, spreading panic among residents. In the Damascus suburbs, especially in the western and eastern regions, rebel forces faced no significant opposition as government soldiers were seen retreating.

Food markets in Damascus experienced a rush as people scrambled to stock up on supplies amid the uncertainty. According to reports, areas like Eastern Ghouta have already seen significant government troop withdrawals, signaling the diminishing presence of Assad's forces.

In a related development, approximately 2,000 Syrian soldiers reportedly crossed into Iraq's Al-Qaim region to seek refuge, according to the town's mayor. This movement further reflects the disintegration of government control in key territories.

Rebel leaders and international observers see Assad’s departure as a defining moment in Syria's decade-long conflict. However, questions remain about the future governance of the country and the challenges of rebuilding a fractured society after years of war.

Sources: BBC, Al Jazeera.