Assad leaves as Syrian PM prepares to hand over power to armed groups

The tomb of the late Syrian President Hafez Al-Assad, father of ousted President Bashar Al-Assad, was set on fire in his hometown of Qardaha, located in the coastal Latakia province.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor told AFP the opposition armed forces had set fire to the mausoleum, located in the Latakia heartland of Assad's Alawite community.

The act stems from years of frustration with the 54 years of the Assad family's rule, fueled by years of conflict, economic hardship, and a lack of political freedom.

Syrian opposition leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani vowed the country would not face another war, telling Sky News on Tuesday that its citizens were already "exhausted" by years of conflict.

"People are exhausted from war. So the country isn't ready for another one and it's not going to get into another one," he said in Damascus where he visited a mosque.

Syrian armed opposition factions who ousted president Bashar al-Assad said on Tuesday that they had taken the eastern city of Deir Ezzor, while a war monitor confirmed Kurdish forces had withdrawn.

"Our forces have seized the entire city of Deir Ezzor," the rebels said in a statement, while the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said that Kurdish forces had withdrawn to other localities.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Ayman Safadi spoke today with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken regarding the developments in the Middle East.

The discussion focused on efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire to end the aggression against Gaza and ensure sustainable humanitarian aid throughout the region, as well as the current circumstances in Syria.

The ministers addressed various bilateral issues, emphasizing the importance of enhancing cooperation and strengthening relations between their countries across multiple sectors.

They highlighted the need for a peaceful transfer of power in Syria in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, advocating for an inclusive political process that preserves Syria's unity, security, and sovereignty while addressing the aspirations of the Syrian people and facilitating the voluntary return of refugees.

Both ministers stressed the necessity of bolstering counter-terrorism efforts.

Safadi also condemned "Israel's" occupation of Syrian territories, calling it a violation of international law and a serious escalation.

The Jordanian Hashemite Charity Organization (JHCO) announced it will send 200 tons of food and relief supplies to Syria.

Hussein Al-Shebli, the JHCO's Secretary-General, stated on Tuesday that the trucks will depart by land in the coming hours once the necessary arrangements are finalized.

This initiative follows royal directives to support our brothers in Syria and provide essential assistance to ease their suffering amid challenging circumstances.

The Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) announced that it conducted strikes on approximately 320 targets throughout Syria, ranging from Damascus to Tartus.

During the operation, the IOF reported the destruction of fighter jets, combat helicopters, radar systems, surface-to-air missile batteries, ships, surface-to-surface missiles, cruise missiles, Scud missiles, anti-ship missiles, weapon production sites, ammunition depots, and drones.

Around 350 fighter jets participated in the operation.

The IOF described this as part of the "main phase" of the operation which aims to eliminate the strategic capabilities of the Syrian army, claiming that 70-80 percent of its military capabilities were destroyed to prevent them from being accessed by hostile entities.

Following the downfall of Bashar Al-Assad's regime, users shared images on social media, claiming they showed a detainee in Sednaya Prison before his release.

One caption misleadingly stated, "At first glance one would think this is a scene from a horror movie?! But in fact it is Sednaya prison in Damascus… And what hidden is greater!!"

However, reverse image searches confirmed that the photo depicts a model in Vietnam's War Remnants Museum.

Human rights organizations have documented various torture methods at Sednaya Prison, including secret mass hangings that affected 13,000 detainees.

Newly-appointed Syrian Prime Minister, Mohammed Al-Bashir, announced that the General Command has tasked the transitional government with managing the country’s affairs until March 1.

This decision was made following a meeting between Al-Bashir and armed opposition leaders, including Commander Ahmad Al-Sharaa.

Syria must never be divided again and Turkey will act against anyone seeking to compromise its territory, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday.

"From now on, we cannot allow Syria to be divided again... Any attack on the freedom of the Syrian people, the stability of the new administration, and the integrity of its lands will find us standing against it," he said.

The UN special envoy for Syria on Tuesday called on Israel to halt its military movements and bombardments inside Syria, days after the fall of president Bashar al-Assad.

"We are continuing to see Israeli movements and bombardments into Syrian territory. This needs to stop. This is extremely important," Geir Pedersen told reporters in Geneva.

Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported that the Syrian defense research centre was completely destroyed following “Israeli” strikes.

The Syrian pound continued its upward trend against the US dollar, reaching 16,000 pounds to the dollar in Damascus on Tuesday.

The exchange rate had risen to 17,000 pounds on Monday, up from 22,000 pounds per dollar, which had been recorded on the day the regime of Bashar al-Assad fell.

Osama Bashir Al-Bataineh, a Jordanian citizen held in Syria's Sednaya Prison for 38 years, returned to Jordan on Tuesday, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates.

Social media posts revealed that Al-Bataineh arrived at the Jaber Border Crossing, where his identity was verified before being reunited with his family. He had been imprisoned without charges since 1986, when he disappeared at the age of 18.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ambassador Sufyan Qudah confirmed that Al-Bataineh had been detained under the former Syrian regime.

"He was transferred from Damascus to the Jaber Border Crossing, where he was welcomed by Jordanian officials and reunited with his family," Qudah said in a press statement.

The ambassador added that Al-Bataineh was found unconscious and suffering from memory loss. For decades, the Jordanian embassy in Damascus inquired about his whereabouts, only to face complete denials from Syrian authorities regarding his detention.

Syria's White Helmets rescue group announced Tuesday the end of search operations at the notorious Sednaya prison without finding further detainees.

"The White Helmets announce the conclusion of search operations for possible remaining detainees in potential undiscovered secret cells and basements" at the facility, said a statement. "The search did not uncover any unopened or hidden areas within the facility."

Iran has condemned “Israel's” incursion into a UN-patrolled buffer zone in the Golan Heights on the border with Syria as a "violation" of the law.

"This aggression is a flagrant violation of the United Nations charter," foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said in a statement published Monday night.

A monitor of Syria's war said Tuesday it had recorded more than 300 “Israeli” strikes since rebels toppled the country's longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad over the weekend.

"The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has been able to document around 310 strikes" carried out by "Israeli warplanes" since the announcement of the fall of Assad on Sunday morning, the monitor said.

A Roya reporter confirmed that the Israeli Occupation targeted military sites across various Syrian provinces.

The reporter confirmed following reports from Syrian sources of heavy Israeli Occupation airstrikes on Damascus.

A Roya reporter indicated that panic is spreading on social media in Syria due to reports of attacks targeting sites containing chemical weapons.

Meanwhile, "Israeli" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted what he described as significant strategic advances in the Golan Heights.

Speaking Monday, Netanyahu reaffirmed that the Golan remains essential to "Israel’s" national security and under complete "Israeli" sovereignty.

He also expressed gratitude to former US President Donald Trump for recognizing "Israel's" sovereignty over the Golan, calling it a historic affirmation that bolsters "Israel’s" position in the Middle East amid ongoing regional challenges.

King Abdullah II and US President Joe Biden discussed regional developments, particularly the situation in Syria, during a phone call on Monday.

King Abdullah emphasized the importance of safeguarding Syria's security and its citizens, urging swift action to ensure stability in the country.

The King also called for intensified international efforts to halt the 'Israeli' war on Gaza and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to the region. He highlighted the need for working towards a successful ceasefire in Lebanon.

Additionally, King Abdullah warned of the dangers posed by extremist settlers' violence against Palestinians in the West Bank and the violations of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reiterated that Turkey has no intentions of territorial expansion or violating the sovereignty of other nations.

Speaking in Ankara on Monday, Erdoğan emphasized Turkey’s readiness to contribute to Syria’s stability. “Together, we can overcome the challenges,” he stated.

He announced plans to reopen Turkey’s borders with Syria, facilitating the voluntary and safe return of refugees, while stressing that Syrians alone should shape their country’s future.

“Our role is to support Syrians in rebuilding their homeland. The era of darkness in Syria is over, and a brighter chapter has begun,” Erdoğan declared.

He underscored that Turkey’s cross-border operations aimed solely to eliminate threats of terrorism, vowing to prevent any resurgence of "terrorist" elements near Turkish borders.

“The winds of change in Syria promise a brighter future for its people,” he remarked, expressing optimism that stability would encourage more refugees to return home.

Erdoğan also highlighted Turkey’s longstanding role as a sanctuary for Syrians fleeing conflict.

“Syrians, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds, are our brothers and sisters,” he concluded.

The General Command of the Syrian armed factions issued a statement in response to circulating reports about the existence of hidden or underground prisons in Syria, describing these claims as "false."

In its statement, the leadership said, "We urge people not to be misled by false news talking about underground prisons or hidden jails, as transparency is our approach, and we are working to close the chapter on the past to build a better future."

In a related context, the Syrian Civil Defense announced that as of the time of publishing this statement, its teams working in Sednaya Prison had not found any secret doors that are rumored to exist.

It clarified that the teams are using advanced breach and search tools, including acoustic sensors and trained K9 dogs, with the participation of individuals familiar with the details and secret locations of the prison.

The Civil Defense added, "We are working with all our capacities, but so far there are no indications confirming the presence of detainees in the alleged basements or tunnels. We will continue the search until we accurately check all sections of the prison."

The General Command of the factions reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and communication with the families, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and not falling for rumors that may cause unnecessary anxiety without clear evidence.

On Monday, King Abdullah II spoke about regional developments during separate phone calls with Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Nikos Christodoulides, the President of Cyprus.

His Majesty emphasized the necessity of protecting the security of Syria and its citizens, stressing that the security and stability of Syria are essential for the security and stability of the region.

The King also underscored the need to halt the Israeli Occupation war on the Gaza Strip, calling for enhanced international efforts to mitigate the humanitarian catastrophe in the area.

Additionally, His Majesty urged the intensification of international efforts to find a political horizon for achieving a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.

He affirmed the importance of making all efforts to ensure the success of the ceasefire in Lebanon.

Hamas issued a statement congratulating the Syrian people on what it described as their success in achieving their aspirations for freedom and justice.

In the statement, Hamas called for unity and reconciliation among the Syrian people as they move forward toward building a stable and prosperous future.

The movement praised the determination of the Syrian people, emphasizing their ability to overcome challenges and navigate the current critical phase. Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to standing with the Syrian people and emphasized the importance of Syria's unity and territorial integrity.

"We call on all components of the Syrian people to unite their ranks, foster greater national cohesion, and rise above the pains of the past," the statement read.

Hamas highlighted Syria’s historical role in supporting the Palestinian cause and expressed hope that the country would continue to play a leadership role on regional and international levels. The statement underlined the deep bond between the Palestinian and Syrian peoples, reiterating the shared vision of freedom and justice.

The movement also strongly condemned repeated attacks on Syrian territory by the Israeli Occupation, describing them as brutal aggression. Hamas rejected what it called "Zionist ambitions and plans" that targeted Syria's land and people.

Hamas concluded its statement with a call for unity, resilience, and progress, expressing confidence in the Syrian people's ability to build a future of security, stability, and prosperity.

Mohammad al-Bashir, head of the Syrian Salvation Government in Idlib, has been appointed to form a new Syrian government following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Al-Bashir, an engineer and law graduate, previously served as Minister of Development and Humanitarian Affairs in the opposition government.

Intensive diplomatic meetings are being held to discuss Syria’s security and political future, with plans to create a safe environment for returning refugees and ensure a transparent path to lasting peace. The opposition said it aims for societal reconciliation, justice, and strengthening Syria's international relationships.

The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, issued a statement addressing Syria's current state following 14 years of war and the collapse of the Assad regime.

He emphasized that this moment presents an opportunity for the Syrian people to forge a future defined by peace and stability.

The Secretary-General underlined that the future of Syria must be determined by Syrians themselves. To this end, his Special Envoy will engage with stakeholders in Syria to facilitate a political transition that upholds the rights of all citizens.

Amid the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, two contradictory narratives have emerged regarding his status and Russia’s role in the rapidly evolving situation.

One account said that the Kremlin announced that President Vladimir Putin personally decided to grant asylum to Assad, following Syria's political upheaval. According to this account, Assad fled to Russia after the opposition's quick and surprising takeover of power.

"Of course such decisions cannot be taken without the head of state, and it's his decision," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told journalists on Monday.

He also stated, however, that there was no meeting with Assad on Putin's agenda and “As for President Assad’s whereabouts, I’ve got nothing to tell you.”

The Syrian opposition freed prisoners Sunday across prisons nationwide, most notably at the Sednaya prison, notorious for the darkest abuses of Assad's era.

An intense search was underway at the jail Monday for "hidden underground cells, reportedly holding detainees", said the White Helmets rescue group which had dispatched emergency teams to the facility.

"The teams consist of search and rescue units, wall-breaching specialists, iron door-opening crews, trained dog units, and medical responders," the group said.

“Israeli” Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar confirmed Monday that the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) struck suspected chemical weapons sites and long-range rockets in Syria, claiming the goal was to prevent them from being used by extremists.

Sa’ar further claimed that “the only interest we have is the security of Israel and its citizens.”

“That’s why we attacked strategic weapons systems, like, for example, remaining chemical weapons, or long-range missiles and rockets, in order that they will not fall in the hands of extremists.”

Regarding the presence of “Israeli” forces in Syrian territory, Sa’ar said it is a “limited, temporary” to ensure “Israel’s” security.

Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said Jordan strongly condemned the entry of Israeli occupation forces into Syrian territory, describing it as an "unacceptable and dangerous escalation."

Speaking on recent developments in Syria, Safadi emphasized Jordan’s commitment to supporting Syria’s stability and security.

“The Kingdom closely monitors the situation in Syria and remains fully committed to efforts that preserve its stability and ensure its security,” Safadi stated.

He reiterated Jordan’s strong backing for a Syrian-led political process, stressing the importance of a solution that ends the suffering of the Syrian people. Safadi also highlighted Jordan’s readiness to assist Syrians in their pursuit of stability.

“While the situation in Syria is still unfolding, there are positive signs that could help prevent further chaos,” he said, expressing optimism for the country’s political future.

Safadi reaffirmed Jordan’s condemnation of the “Israeli” military actions, calling them a violation of Syria’s sovereignty and a threat to regional stability.

A senior US official has revealed to The Washington Post that the United States is considering removing Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from its list of foreign terrorist organizations.

The official, speaking anonymously, stated that the potential move aims to engage with HTS more deeply to ensure stability in Syria.

HTS is currently designated as a terrorist organization by the US, Turkey, the United Nations, and several other Western countries.

In 2018, the U.S. announced a USD 10 million reward for information leading to the capture of HTS leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani (Ahmed al-Sharaa).

In an exclusive interview with CNN, Jolani rejected the terrorist designation, calling it “primarily political and inaccurate.”

He argued that “certain extreme practices caused a split between HTS and other groups.”

Prime Minister Jafar Hassan reaffirmed Jordan’s support for the Syrian people in determining their future, emphasizing the importance of preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and security.

Hassan stated that Jordan will continue providing necessary support to the Syrian people across various sectors to enhance regional stability and security.

He expressed Jordan’s hope for a new phase of peace and stability in Syria, highlighting the need to move beyond the era of violence and terrorism toward lasting peace that ensures a brighter future for Syrians.

Hassan also noted that Jordan remains actively engaged with the international community to achieve these objectives, reiterating the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Syrian people in their pursuit of security and peace.

Hassan said they will exert efforts to secure Jordanian prisoners in Syria

President Joe Biden revealed on Sunday that US military forces have been actively conducting airstrikes in Syria to prevent Daesh from regaining power following the recent fall of President Bashar Al-Assad's government.

During a speech at the White House, Biden hailed Assad’s downfall as a “fundamental act of justice” and expressed optimism that the Syrian people could now work towards establishing a new, more democratic society after enduring decades of oppressive rule.

However, he also cautioned that this transition comes with “a moment of risk and uncertainty,” emphasizing his administration's commitment to thwarting any resurgence of terrorist groups.

“We’re cleareyed about the fact that [Daesh] will try to take advantage of any vacuum to reestablish its capability, to create a safe haven,” Biden stated. “We will not let that happen.”

In a direct update on military operations, Biden noted, “Just today, US forces conducted a dozen precision strikes, airstrikes, within Syria targeting [Daesh] camps and [Daesh] operatives.” While he did not provide further details on these military actions, US officials are expected to brief the press later.

US President Joe Biden described the overthrow of Bashar Al-Assad's regime as a historic moment and an opportunity for the Syrian people to build a more peaceful and stable future.

Biden noted that Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah failed to protect the Assad regime, adding that Iran's attempts to support him through its proxies have been unsuccessful, emphasizing that what happened in Syria represents an opportunity for the Middle East.

He stressed that his administration has imposed sanctions on Assad over the past years due to his refusal to engage in a serious political process and his continued commission of crimes against the Syrian people.

Biden affirmed that the US will work with all concerned parties to seize this historic opportunity to establish peace, emphasizing that the US will collaborate with Syrian groups to establish a transitional phase.

He also pointed out that the US will not allow Daesh to rebuild its capabilities in Syria or the region.

Russian Channel One has reported that former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, accompanied by members of his family, is currently in Moscow.

Kremlin announced that Assad and his family have been granted asylum in Russia on humanitarian grounds.

A source in the Israeli Occupation reported that Tel Aviv informed Washington in advance about its operation to seize the buffer zone along the Syrian border, according to Axios.

Axios added that Tel Aviv also notified Washington in advance of its operation to take control of other locations on the Syrian side.

A Roya correspondent stated on Sunday evening that explosions were heard in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights.

The reporter noted that the explosions were the result of artillery shelling by the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) targeting Syrian territory.

The Chief of Staff of the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF), Herzi Halevi, announced that starting Sunday night, the IOF will begin combat operations in Syria.

Halevi stated that the IOF is already engaged on fronts in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon, and from tonight, it will open a new front in Syria.

The Hebrew newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that the IOF had taken control of Mount Hermon in Syria in recent hours without encountering any resistance.

The IOF raised the flag of the "Israeli" entity over the Syrian Mount Hermon area after declaring its occupation without resistance.

Earlier, the occupation army’s radio reported that the cabinet had decided to occupy the Syrian Mount Hermon area and establish a buffer zone.

The radio further mentioned that the occupation army would act as the executive force in the buffer zone along the border with Syria.

The Palestinian Presidency affirmed the solidarity of the State of Palestine and its people with the Syrian people.

In a statement following the downfall of Bashar Al-Assad's regime, the Palestinian Presidency emphasized respect for their will and political choices in a way that ensures their security, stability, and preservation of national achievements.

The Presidency reiterated the importance of maintaining Syria's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity and expressed its wishes for continued progress and prosperity for the brotherly Syrian people.

It also called on all political parties to prioritize the interests of the Syrian people and work towards restoring Syria’s pivotal role in the region and the world, in a manner that serves common interests and bolsters the just Palestinian cause on its path toward freedom and independence.

Ahmed Al-Shara, known as Abu Muhammad Al-Jolani, a commander in the operations department of the Syrian armed opposition, stated during an address from inside the Umayyad Mosque that Bashar Al-Assad had spread sectarianism, and now "our country belongs to all of us."

He added that the victory achieved is a victory for all Syrians.

Earlier, opposition factions announced that the leader of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), Abu Muhammad Al-Jolani, had arrived in Damascus hours after they declared their entry into the capital and the overthrow of Bashar Al-Assad.

The opposition factions posted a video on Telegram showing Al-Jolani, who has started using his real name, Ahmed Al-Shara.

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued its first official statement on Sunday evening following the fall of Bashar Al-Assad's regime in Syria.

The Ministry reaffirmed its firm and fundamental stance on respecting Syria's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

It added that, considering its status as an influential country in the region, it would spare no effort to help achieve security and stability in Syria.

The Ministry also emphasized that the Syrian people alone have the right to determine their country's future, free from any destructive interventions or foreign impositions.

'Israeli' army has issued an urgent warning to residents of five Syrian border towns, advising them not to move or leave their homes until further notice.

Hebrew Broadcasting Authority announced that 'Israel' launched an airstrike on the Damascus Scientific Research Center, where chemical weapons and ballistic missile programs are reportedly managed.

Meanwhile, Hebrew newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that the 'Israeli' military seized control of Mount Sheikh in Syria in the past few hours without facing resistance.

Israeli Occupation Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria as "a historic day in Middle Eastern history" in a statement made near the Syrian border.

He added that "Israel would not allow any hostile forces to settle on its borders," emphasizing that the fall of the Syrian regime was a result of "the continuous pressure" Israeli Occupation had applied on its supporters, especially Iran and Hezbollah.

Netanyahu pointed out that Assad's regime was "the central link in the Iranian axis of evil," considering its collapse as a significant development that opens up "new opportunities" for 'Israel.' However, he also cautioned that the situation "is not without risks." He affirmed that the occupation would continue to monitor developments in Syria closely and take necessary measures to ensure their security and protect their borders.

In response, Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement asserting that "the Syrian people determine the fate of their country" without any external interference. Iran also emphasized that it would spare no effort in "supporting the achievement of security and stability in Syria," underscoring that Syria remains an "influential" country in the region.

This escalation comes at a sensitive time for the region, as Syria undergoes fundamental changes after years of war, further complicating regional and international balances.

Jordan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ayman Safadi, stated today that Jordan is closely monitoring developments in the Syrian Arab Republic with great concern for Syria's security, unity, sovereignty, and the safety of its people.

Safadi emphasized Jordan’s commitment to providing full support to the Syrian people in their efforts to rebuild their country, institutions, and political system, ensuring Syria's security, sovereignty, freedom, and a dignified life for all its citizens.

Sunday, His Majesty King Abdullah II chaired a meeting of the National Security Council, reiterating Jordan's unwavering support for the Syrian people and respect for their will and choices.

Russia announced that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has "resigned" from his position and left Syria. However, the statement did not disclose his current whereabouts or any details about his departure.

Earlier, the Wall Street Journal quoted Syrian security officials as saying that former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad did not inform his government of his departure from the country early Sunday morning.

The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates announced that its diplomatic missions abroad will continue to operate despite recent political developments.

In a tweet posted Sunday, the ministry stated: "We will remain at the service of all our fellow citizens, managing their affairs with the responsibility entrusted to us in representing the Syrian people, guided by the principle that the homeland always comes first."

Addressing the Syrian people, the ministry added: "A new chapter in Syria’s history is being written today, marking the beginning of a national covenant that unites Syrians, fostering solidarity for building a just and equal nation where citizenship is paramount, far removed from the imposition of a singular viewpoint."

Footage taken earlier this morning in Amman, Jordan, showing the staff of the Syrian embassy lowering the flag after the toppling of the Assad regime.

The Syrian opposition has freed women and children held in the infamous Sednaya Prison, nicknamed the “Human Slaughterhouse”.

Sednaya is located near Damascus and was used by the Assad regime to hold thousands of prisoners.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) estimated in January 2021 that 30,000 detainees have perished in Sednaya from torture, ill-treatment and mass executions since 2011.

Amnesty International estimated in February 2017 "that between 5,000 and 13,000 people were extrajudicially executed at Saydnaya between September 2011 and December 2015."

The Military Operations Directorate, part of the Syrian armed opposition factions, has announced a reward of USD 10 million for anyone who provides information that leads to the capture of Bashar al-Assad.

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali disclosed details of his final conversation with President Bashar al-Assad before the regime's downfall.

In an interview, Al-Jalali stated that he had no information about Assad's whereabouts or the timing of his departure, but he had briefed the president on the latest developments during their last call.

Al-Jalali explained that their final communication took place on Saturday evening, during which Assad responded to the current situation with, "Tomorrow, we’ll see."

Videos have emerged showing Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali alongside opposition forces, preparing to hand over control of government ministries following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

US president-elect Donald Trump said Sunday that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad had "fled his country" after losing the backing of Russia.

"Assad is gone," he said on his Truth Social platform.

"His protector, Russia, Russia, Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, was not interested in protecting him any longer."

The Syrian pound has experienced a sharp and unprecedented collapse, coinciding with political developments in the country and the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

In Damascus, the currency depreciated by 42 percent, with the US dollar trading at 22,000 Syrian pounds, according to the currency-tracking site Syria Today.

The decline was even steeper in Aleppo, where the pound dropped by 64 percent, with the dollar reaching 36,000 Syrian pounds.

Israeli Occupation army announced the call-up of the 98th Division and the Paratroopers and Commando Brigades to the border with Syria.

Ahmed al-Shara, known as Abu Muhammad al-Jolani and the commander of operations, addressed opposition forces as they entered Damascus, urging them to "thank God for this progress."

In his message, al-Jolani emphasized the importance of entering Damascus with humility and stressed the need to preserve state institutions, describing them as "the property of the great Syrian people."

He continued, "Let us continue to shape the image of victory for the greatest revolution in modern history," reiterating the necessity of safeguarding state institutions and acting responsibly toward the Syrian people and their future.

'Israeli' military radio reported on Sunday morning that the army has increased the readiness of its forces in the occupied Golan Heights and is closely monitoring developments in Syria.

The report indicated that the 'Israeli' army and Northern Command will carry out offensive operations in the demilitarized zone near Quneitra, claiming it is part of efforts to strengthen border defenses.

A government source stated that Jordan is closely following developments in neighboring Syria and reports regarding the Syrian president.

The source reiterated Jordan’s consistent position, calling for the preservation of Syria's unity, security, and stability, expressing its hope for the restoration of Syria's state institutions, security, and stability.

Ahmad al-Shara, also known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, leader of the military operations of the opposition and head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, issued clear instructions to his forces who entered the Syrian capital, Damascus. The orders include prohibiting approaching or targeting public institutions.

Al-Jolani emphasized that these institutions would remain under the supervision of the former prime minister until they are officially handed over to the relevant authorities.

He also stressed the importance of refraining from firing in the air to maintain security and prevent chaos in the areas controlled by his forces.

Armed opposition groups in Syria issued a statement on Sunday morning after entering the capital, Damascus.

The statement declared the fall of Bashar al-Assad, with the president reportedly leaving the country.

The opposition affirmed their commitment to building a free, just, and democratic Syria where all citizens are equal.

They pledged to maintain Syria’s territorial integrity, protect citizens and their properties, rebuild state institutions, seek national reconciliation, and ensure accountability for crimes committed against the people.

The group identified themselves as the National Transitional Council and, in their closing statement, called for unity among the Syrian people, emphasizing that the new Syria belongs to all.

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Jalali stated early Sunday that he is ready to "cooperate" with any leadership chosen by the people and to take any necessary measures for a "handover" of power, following the announcement by armed opposition factions that they have begun entering the capital.

In a speech shared on his Facebook account, Al-Jalali said, "This country can be a normal country, one that builds good relations with its neighbors and the world. However, this matter is up to any leadership chosen by the Syrian people. We are ready to cooperate with them and provide all possible facilities."

Reuters reported Sunday that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad had left the country on a plane heading to an unknown destination, according to two Syrian army officers.