Syrian President, Bashar Al Assad Flees Damascus As Rebels Take Control Of Homs

President Bashar al Assad has fled Damascus on a plane to an unknown destination, according to two senior Syrian army officers and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, as reported by Reuters.

Syria’s army command has informed officers that Assad’s 24-year rule has come to an end, one officer revealed to Reuters.

Earlier, rebels announced their complete takeover of the strategic city of Homs after just a day of fighting. The opposition coalition, comprising various rebel groups, stated they are now focused on transferring power to a transitional governing body.

“The great Syrian revolution has moved from the stage of struggle to overthrow the Assad regime to the struggle to build a Syria together that befits the sacrifices of its people,” the coalition declared, calling it the beginning of a new era for “great Syria.”

Meanwhile, Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al Jalali expressed readiness for a peaceful transition of power. Speaking from his home, he stated, “I have not left it and do not intend to leave, except in a peaceful manner that ensures the continued functioning of public institutions and state facilities, promoting security and reassurance for our fellow citizens.”

Al Jalali pledged to continue working from his office and urged citizens to protect public property, but he declined to address reports of Assad’s flight from Damascus.