Syria's Assad Regime Falls After Decades, Sparking New Middle East Uncertainty

Syrians are celebrating the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime after five decades of dynastic rule, as the dictator fled to Moscow amid a successful rebel advance on Damascus. The unexpected collapse of Assad's government has led to scenes of jubilation, with people tearing down symbols of the regime and reuniting with loved ones previously imprisoned. The rebel victory, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and Turkish-backed militias, comes as Assad's allies, Iran, Hezbollah, and Russia, were distracted by other conflicts. The UN and international leaders are calling for a peaceful transition, while concerns remain about the future governance of Syria.