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Rebel fighters claimed to have captured the Syrian capital of Damascus, declaring it free from President Assad’s regime. The rebels’ sudden takeover of the city marks a significant development in the country’s 13-year-long civil war, with government forces being routed in a matter of days. While NBC News has not independently confirmed the rebel’s claim, the rebel group HTS announced the liberation of Sednaya Prison and the end of oppression in Damascus. The capture of the capital by the rebels is seen as a blow to international powers that have supported Assad, such as Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah.
The rebels’ rapid advance follows their capture of cities like Homs, Hama, and Aleppo in recent weeks. The Mideast is currently embroiled in widespread conflict, with Israel battling Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Pro-Assad forces are also fighting Kurdish forces in eastern Syria near Raqqa and Deir Ez-Zour. HTS, an offshoot of Al Qaeda, has been designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the U.N., but has been successful in challenging Assad’s regime. The rebels’ recent success is attributed to years of training and equipping forces with advanced weaponry.
The ongoing conflict in Syria has resulted in the displacement of millions of Syrians, leading to a refugee crisis that has impacted Europe. While a 2020 ceasefire left Assad in control of most of Syria, rebel forces like HTS continue to challenge his rule. The situation in Syria remains fluid and is closely monitored by the U.S., which has troops stationed in the region.
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