Historic Shift: Syrian Rebels Topple Assad, Ending Decades of Rule

People celebrating at Saadallah al-Jabiri square in Aleppo, Syria. (Source: Reuters)

In a momentous turn of events, Syrian rebels declared the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad on Sunday after seizing control of Damascus, marking the end of 13 years of civil war and half a century of Assad family rule. This historic development reverberates across the Middle East, dismantling one of the region’s most enduring regimes and challenging the influence of Iran and Russia, Assad's key allies.

The rebels stormed government strongholds, including the Iranian embassy, while Syrian military sources confirmed Assad’s departure from power. Speculation over his fate grew when a Syrian Air plane, believed to be carrying him, made an abrupt U-turn before disappearing from radar. On the streets of Damascus, jubilant crowds waved flags and chanted "Freedom", celebrating the fall of a regime that crushed dissent and plunged the country into a devastating conflict.

The collapse of Assad's rule deals a significant blow to Iran and Russia. Iran's embassy takeover symbolizes the weakening of Tehran's regional influence, while Russia, embroiled in its war in Ukraine, appeared unable to intervene. The recent killing of Hezbollah leaders by Israeli strikes further eroded Assad's battlefield support, paving the way for this swift and decisive rebel advance.

The Islamist coalition Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which spearheaded the rebellion, announced plans to form a transitional governing body. While this marks a potential turning point for Syria, HTS's history as a former al Qaeda affiliate has sparked fears of extremist rule. Western governments, which long opposed Assad, now face the challenge of engaging with an administration shaped by such groups.

Regional powers are wary of the rebel victory. Countries like the UAE and Egypt, which view Islamist movements as existential threats, have voiced concerns about HTS's influence. Meanwhile, U.S. officials have pledged to maintain a presence in eastern Syria to prevent a resurgence of the Islamic State, underscoring the complex dynamics in the post-Assad landscape.

Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali has called for free elections, emphasizing the need for a government that reflects the will of the people. However, stabilizing a nation shattered by war and accommodating diverse factions will be a monumental task. Rebel leaders, including HTS commander Abu Mohammed al-Golani, have expressed a desire for an orderly transition to avoid the chaos that followed Iraq’s regime change in 2003.

Syria’s civil war, which began in 2011 as a pro-democracy uprising, has reached a turning point. While the fall of Assad inspires hope among Syrians, the path ahead is fraught with challenges. Rebuilding the country, addressing fears of extremism, and navigating international sanctions will determine whether this moment marks the dawn of a new era or the beginning of fresh turmoil.