Damascus has fallen. Syrian rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani proclaimed a “new history” for the war-torn nation on Saturday, following the dramatic seizure of the capital and the flight of President Bashar al-Assad. Addressing jubilant crowds at the historic Umayyad Mosque, Jawlani celebrated the overthrow of a regime marked by decades of brutal repression and pledged to rebuild a Syria that honors the sacrifices of its people.
“How many people were displaced across the world? How many people lived in tents? How many drowned in the seas?” Jawlani asked the assembled crowd. “A new history, my brothers, is being written in the entire region after this great victory.” His remarks were met with chants of unity and celebration as residents flooded the streets in scenes of joy and disbelief.
The sudden collapse of Assad’s forces overnight unleashed a wave of emotional reunions, as rebel forces stormed prisons across Damascus, freeing thousands of political detainees. Videos circulating on social media captured former prisoners running through the streets at dawn, some holding up fingers to symbolize the years they had spent behind bars. Families embraced loved ones they feared they might never see again.
In a statement, the Syrian rebel coalition confirmed the formation of a transitional governing body to oversee the next steps in rebuilding the country. “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 announced.
Jawlani called for unity in the face of daunting challenges, urging Syrians to set aside differences and work toward creating “a beacon for the Islamic nation.” His speech marked a turning point in the nation’s history, as citizens began to grapple with the prospect of a post-Assad future.
For now, the streets of Damascus are filled with celebration, as Syrians dare to hope for a brighter future after years of devastating conflict.
