Moscow (Web Desk/Agencies): Syrian ousted President Bashar al-Assad and his family reportedly arrived in Russia and granted asylum on humanitarian grounds, according to Russian news agencies.
The reports suggest that Assad’s plane, which took off from Damascus just as rebel forces advanced on the capital, may have gone off radar, possibly indicating it was shot down or its transponder turned off.
Flight data showed that the plane initially headed toward Syria’s coastal region but made an unexpected turn before disappearing from tracking.
On Sunday, rebels stormed into Damascus, unopposed, toppling Assad’s regime and bringing an end to over 50 years of rule by his family. This unexpected and rapid takeover marked a dramatic shift in the Syrian conflict, which had been in a stalemate for years.
As per the analysts, the fall of Assad's government represents a significant loss for both Iran and Russia, who had invested heavily in supporting Assad’s hold on power. Iran’s regional influence is now greatly diminished, while Russia's strategic position in the Mediterranean, including its naval base, could be at risk.
The overthrow of Assad also signifies a turning point for millions of refugees who had fled Syria’s war, many of whom may now have the opportunity to return home.
For Syrians, the sudden collapse of the regime marked a bittersweet end to a brutal war that had caused extensive death, destruction, and displacement. Former prisoners celebrated their release, and the city saw scenes of jubilation and looting as rebels moved through government buildings and military installations.
In the aftermath, the country faces the difficult challenge of rebuilding. Rebel leaders have announced plans to establish a transitional government, but the road to stability will be long and uncertain.
The devastation left by years of civil war will require massive international aid to begin reconstruction efforts. At the same time, the new leaders will need to manage a deeply divided society and bring together different sects and communities.
Globally, reactions to Assad’s fall have been mixed. Israeli officials attributed his overthrow to Israeli actions against Iran and Hezbollah, while French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the collapse of a "barbaric regime."
The United States is reportedly observing the situation closely but has not yet altered its military stance in the region.
Despite the optimism surrounding Assad's defeat, the future of Syria remains uncertain. With the Assad family in exile and the country in turmoil, Syria's new leadership faces an enormous challenge in rebuilding a fractured nation.