In a dramatic and historic turn, Syrian opposition fighters have announced the “liberation” of Syria, following their successful storming of Damascus and the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. After more than five decades of Assad family rule, the president is reported to have fled the capital, though his exact whereabouts remain undisclosed. The fall of Damascus marks a stunning climax to 13 years of brutal civil war, which has ravaged Syria, displacing millions and leaving the country in ruins.

The opposition’s swift advance has triggered celebrations across Syria and neighboring Lebanon, with thousands of displaced Syrians beginning to return to their homes in what many view as the dawn of a new chapter for the nation. However, the future of Syria remains precarious, with significant international attention focusing on the next steps for the country.

Global Reactions

Reactions to Assad’s ousting have been diverse, reflecting the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding Syria.

United Nations: UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen called for a “political way out,” stressing the need for inclusivity in the peace process and healing the country’s deep wounds. The UN highlighted the importance of Syria’s sovereignty and long-term stability in the wake of Assad’s departure.

China: China expressed hope for Syria’s swift return to stability, while also ensuring the safety of its nationals in the country. The Chinese government vowed continued assistance for citizens caught up in the conflict.

Egypt: Egypt urged for the preservation of Syria’s state institutions and national unity, offering support to the Syrian people in their efforts to rebuild the country.

European Union: EU diplomat Kaja Kallas celebrated Assad’s fall as a “positive and long-awaited development” but underscored the need for a “long and complicated” reconstruction process, focusing on regional security and engagement from all parties.

France and Germany: Both countries welcomed the collapse of the Assad regime. French President Emmanuel Macron called it the “fall of a barbaric state,” while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed relief at the end of Assad’s oppressive rule. However, Germany cautioned against the rise of radical groups in the power vacuum.

Iran: As one of Assad’s key backers, Iran voiced respect for Syria’s sovereignty, calling for an end to military conflict and the start of a national dialogue, while reaffirming its longstanding ties with Syria.

Israel: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the event as “historic,” noting the weakening of Iran’s influence in Syria. Israel also seized control of a buffer zone in the Golan Heights, an area once under Syrian control.

Turkey: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned against allowing terrorist organizations to exploit the power vacuum and emphasized the importance of unity within the opposition to avoid further destabilization.

Russia: Russia confirmed Assad’s resignation and departure but stressed that its forces in Syria remained on high alert, despite the changing situation.

Gulf States and Others: Qatar expressed concern about potential chaos in Syria post-Assad, urging the preservation of national institutions. Meanwhile, the UAE highlighted the dangers of a political vacuum, calling for stability and peace.

United States: President Joe Biden’s administration is closely monitoring the unfolding events, while President-elect Donald Trump congratulated the opposition, claiming that Russia’s withdrawal of support led to the regime’s collapse.

Looking Ahead

As Syria enters a new phase, the path forward remains uncertain. The fall of Assad has left a power vacuum that could lead to further instability. International powers have called for a political transition, but concerns about extremism and regional influence remain. The global community is watching closely, hoping that Syria can rebuild from the devastation of war and move toward a more peaceful future.

However, with various factions vying for control and the threat of radicalism looming, Syria’s journey to stability will likely be long and fraught with challenges. The world waits to see how the opposition and international actors will shape the next chapter in Syria’s history