Assad Regime Collapses: Rebels Claim Control of Damascus

The regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad appears to have fallen as rebels, led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), advanced into Damascus, claiming control of the capital. The Syrian prime minister has expressed readiness for a government handover, while reports suggest Syrian military forces are surrendering in various cities. The rapid rebel advance has been attributed to the weakened state of Assad's allies, Iran and Russia. The situation remains fluid, with international reactions varying from calls for dialogue to suggestions of non-intervention.