Thousands of Syrians gathered in public squares and streets across the country to mark the historic fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. In Damascus, the courtyard of the Umayyad Mosque became the hub of joy as men, women, and children raised the opposition’s independence flag and chanted for Syrian unity. Similar scenes unfolded in Aleppo, Homs, Hama, Idlib, and Sweida, where a festive atmosphere continued.

The celebrations were encouraged by a call from Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), After their quick attack that removed Assad from power, they set up. Addressing worshippers in Damascus, al-Bashir urged unity and peace for a better future.

For many, this was their first time experiencing freedom in Assad's former strongholds. Protesters displayed pictures of loved ones who disappeared or died in Assad's brutal prison system, which the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights estimates claimed over 100,000 lives since 2011.

After 13 years of civil war that claimed more than 500,000 lives and displaced millions, Syrians expressed a mix of relief and Hopefulness. "We’ve finished the war and started building our country together," said an HTS fighter in Damascus.

Vendors sold opposition flags openly, a sight unimaginable under Assad’s rule. In Sweida, where dissent has simmered for over a year, the Druze minority joined in songs and celebration, united with the rest of the nation in this historic turning point.

---

Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content. 

Instagram - @qatarliving

X - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

YouTube - qatarlivingofficial