DAMASCUS: Syrian rebels have taken control of Damascus and announced the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad’s government.
In their first address after the takeover, rebel leaders assured the nation of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They promised to protect all state and non-state properties, and to release all political prisoners from jails.
The British news agency claims that President Assad has fled the country, boarding a plane to an unknown destination. Reports from Damascus show large crowds gathering at Umayyad Square, with citizens climbing onto abandoned military tanks.
Qatari media also reports that Syrian forces retreated from the city’s key entrances, facing no resistance. The Syrian Ministry of Defense headquarters has reportedly been evacuated, while rebels have gained control of state TV and radio stations.
