Syria Begins New Chapter After Years of Conflict

In a dramatic turn of events, Syrian rebels have taken control of Damascus, ousting President Bashar al-Assad and marking the end of over five decades of his family’s rule. The swift 12-day takeover has left the region and the global community grappling with uncertainty about Syria’s future after a brutal 13-year civil war.

The United Nations Security Council convened behind closed doors on Monday, with diplomats expressing shock at the rapid collapse of Assad’s government. “Everyone was taken by surprise, including members of the council,” said Russian UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia. “We must wait, observe, and evaluate how the situation develops.”

Assad, who fled to Moscow on Sunday, had relied heavily on Russian military support to maintain power. His departure signals a pivotal moment for Syria, with the mood in Damascus described as jubilant.

On Monday, Assad’s Prime Minister Mohammed Jalali agreed to transfer power to the rebel-led Salvation Government, previously based in northwest Syria. Jalali met with rebel commander Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, and Vice President Faisal Mekdad to discuss the formation of a transitional government, according to sources familiar with the talks.

The handover process, Jalali stated, could take several days. Reports indicate that Mohamed al-Bashir, leader of the Salvation Government, is expected to head the transitional authority.

The rebel alliance, spearheaded by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a former al-Qaeda affiliate, has upended the balance of power in the Middle East. The civil war, which began in 2011, claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, displaced millions, and devastated Syria’s infrastructure and economy.

Despite their military success, the rebels have yet to outline a clear vision for Syria’s future. Analysts warn that the lack of a structured transition plan could pose significant challenges in a region already marked by instability and competing interests.

As the world watches Syria’s unfolding political transformation, questions remain about the country’s path forward and its potential impact on the wider Middle East.