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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Dec 10, 2024, 01:33:52 IST
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Syria Civil War Live: Hamas congratulates Syrians on toppling Assad, achieving 'freedom and justice'
Syrian Civil War Live Updates : US military forces conducted a major aerial operation targeting more than 75 Isis positions in Syria. The strikes, part of an ongoing effort to disrupt and degrade Isis, aimed to prevent the group from resuming external operations and exploiting the current instability in the region. Over 75 targets were hit using a variety of US Air Force assets, including B-52s, F-15s, and A-10s. CENTCOM confirmed that no civilian casualties were reported, and battle damage assessments are underway.
General Michael Erik Kurilla reiterated the US commitment to preventing ISIS from reconstituting itself in Syria. "We will hold accountable any groups that support or partner with ISIS," he stated. The US is working closely with regional allies to continue degrading Isis's operational capabilities.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden addressed the recent collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria, calling it a "fundamental act of justice." He acknowledged the risk and uncertainty that the region now faces but emphasised that the end of Assad's oppressive rule offers a "historic opportunity" for Syria's people to rebuild. The rebel forces’ capture of strategic cities, including Homs and Damascus, marked the beginning of the end for Assad's 24-year reign. As Assad fled Syria, celebrations erupted across the country, signalling the collapse of over five decades of Baathist rule.
General Michael Erik Kurilla reiterated the US commitment to preventing ISIS from reconstituting itself in Syria. "We will hold accountable any groups that support or partner with ISIS," he stated. The US is working closely with regional allies to continue degrading Isis's operational capabilities.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden addressed the recent collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria, calling it a "fundamental act of justice." He acknowledged the risk and uncertainty that the region now faces but emphasised that the end of Assad's oppressive rule offers a "historic opportunity" for Syria's people to rebuild. The rebel forces’ capture of strategic cities, including Homs and Damascus, marked the beginning of the end for Assad's 24-year reign. As Assad fled Syria, celebrations erupted across the country, signalling the collapse of over five decades of Baathist rule.
00:53 (IST) Dec 09
Syria Civil War Live: Saudi Arabia appeals for avoidance of 'chaos and division' in Syria
Saudi Arabia urged for action to prevent Syria from descending into disorder following President Bashar al-Assad's removal by Islamist opposition forces.
The Saudi foreign ministry issued a statement saying, "The kingdom affirms its support for the brotherly Syrian people and their choice," whilst calling for "concerted efforts to preserve the unity of Syria and the cohesion of its people, so as to prevent it falling into chaos and division".
The ministry further stated, "The time has come for the Syrian people to enjoy the dignified life that they deserve."
Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic relations with Assad's regime in 2012 and supported his removal, providing assistance to Syrian opposition groups during the early stages of the nation's civil conflict.
The Saudi decision further contributed to Assad's regional isolation, following his government's suppression of pro-democracy demonstrations in 2011, which sparked Syria's conflict.
Syria's readmission to the Arab League in 2023 signalled its return to international relations, whilst Assad's government re-established diplomatic connections with Saudi Arabia, initiating a gradual improvement in relations with the kingdom.
The Saudi foreign ministry issued a statement saying, "The kingdom affirms its support for the brotherly Syrian people and their choice," whilst calling for "concerted efforts to preserve the unity of Syria and the cohesion of its people, so as to prevent it falling into chaos and division".
The ministry further stated, "The time has come for the Syrian people to enjoy the dignified life that they deserve."
Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic relations with Assad's regime in 2012 and supported his removal, providing assistance to Syrian opposition groups during the early stages of the nation's civil conflict.
The Saudi decision further contributed to Assad's regional isolation, following his government's suppression of pro-democracy demonstrations in 2011, which sparked Syria's conflict.
Syria's readmission to the Arab League in 2023 signalled its return to international relations, whilst Assad's government re-established diplomatic connections with Saudi Arabia, initiating a gradual improvement in relations with the kingdom.
00:40 (IST) Dec 09
Syria Civil War Live: Biden warns some Syrian rebel groups have 'grim record of terrorism'
US President Joe Biden cautioned about certain Syrian opposition groups that overthrew Bashar al-Assad, highlighting their troubling history of violent activities and rights violations.
Speaking from the White House, Biden stated, "Some of the rebel groups that took down Assad have their own grim record of terrorism and human right abuses."
The US President also mentioned that whilst these rebel groups claim to have reformed, the United States would carefully evaluate both their statements and subsequent behaviour to verify these claims.
Speaking from the White House, Biden stated, "Some of the rebel groups that took down Assad have their own grim record of terrorism and human right abuses."
The US President also mentioned that whilst these rebel groups claim to have reformed, the United States would carefully evaluate both their statements and subsequent behaviour to verify these claims.
00:36 (IST) Dec 09
Syria Civil War Live: Biden says 'Assad should be held accountable'
US President Joe Biden on Sunday said deposed Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad should be "held accountable" but called the nation's political upheaval a "historic opportunity" for Syrians to rebuild their country.
00:22 (IST) Dec 09
Syria Civil War Live: 'We are mindful that Americans are in Syria,' including Austin Tice, says Biden
He further added that he believes Tice is alive as of now.
00:20 (IST) Dec 09
Syria Civil War Live: Biden to engage with Syrian groups
"US will 'engage with all Syrian groups' on transition," said Biden during his address.
00:14 (IST) Dec 09
Syria Civil War Live: US President Joe Biden delivers remarks on latest developments in Syria
"Will work with partners and stakeholders in Syria to help them seize an opportunity to manage the risk, "said Biden.
00:06 (IST) Dec 09
Syria Civil War Live: Greek diplomats to leave Damascus over safety fears, says embassy head
Greece announced the closure of its embassy in Damascus, with diplomats set to leave on Monday due to safety concerns following looting by Islamist-led rebels who seized the city. Charge d’affaires Nikolaos Protonotarios cited ongoing gunfire and unorganized rebel activity as reasons for the evacuation, noting that embassies across Damascus were being targeted.
While the Greek foreign ministry had advised citizens in Syria to exercise caution, Protonotarios reported that there were 50-60 Greek families in Damascus but no evacuation requests from them so far.
While the Greek foreign ministry had advised citizens in Syria to exercise caution, Protonotarios reported that there were 50-60 Greek families in Damascus but no evacuation requests from them so far.
23:48 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Germany's Scholz says Assad fall 'good news', pledges help for Syria
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz welcomed the reported fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, calling it "good news" and emphasizing the need for stability and protection of minorities in Syria. Scholz condemned Assad's brutal rule, noting its role in displacing many Syrians, including refugees in Germany. He urged for a peaceful transition process and pledged Germany's support, in collaboration with international partners, to restore law and order based on UN Security Council resolutions.
Scholz acknowledged concerns over the presence of extremist forces among the opposition and stressed the importance of Syria's territorial integrity and sovereignty. He called for an end to foreign interference in the country. Assad’s reported departure follows a swift rebel offensive led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which challenged decades of Assad family rule.
Scholz acknowledged concerns over the presence of extremist forces among the opposition and stressed the importance of Syria's territorial integrity and sovereignty. He called for an end to foreign interference in the country. Assad’s reported departure follows a swift rebel offensive led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which challenged decades of Assad family rule.
23:39 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: UN chief says future of Syria up to Syrians, UN will help
Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, emphasised that Syria's future lies in the hands of its own people, and confirmed that Geir Pedersen, his special envoy, "will be working with them towards that end."
In his statement, Guterres highlighted the necessity of establishing a systematic political transition towards reformed institutions. He stated, "There is much work to be done to ensure an orderly political transition to renewed institutions. I reiterate my call for calm and avoiding violence at this sensitive time, while protecting the rights of all Syrians."
In his statement, Guterres highlighted the necessity of establishing a systematic political transition towards reformed institutions. He stated, "There is much work to be done to ensure an orderly political transition to renewed institutions. I reiterate my call for calm and avoiding violence at this sensitive time, while protecting the rights of all Syrians."
23:28 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: President Assad is in moscow
Russia grants Syria's Assad and family asylum -Russian agencies cite Kremlin source
23:12 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Biden to deliver remarks on Syria crisis
Biden to deliver remarks on Syria crisis at 1:00 pm (1800 GMT): White House
23:07 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Saudi Arabia says it stands by Syrian people and their choices
Saudi Arabia said on Sunday it stands by Syrian people and their choices at this "critical stage" after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was toppled early in the day.
22:42 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Islamist rebel chief at landmark Umayyad Mosque in Damascus
The leader of Syria's Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, which led a swift rebel offensive that captured Damascus from government forces, visited the capital's iconic Umayyad Mosque on Sunday, news agency AFP reported.
HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, now using his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, addressed a crowd as they chanted "Allahu akbar (God is greatest)," with videos shared by the rebels on their Telegram channel. As he entered the mosque, the crowd cheered in celebration, as shown in footage circulating online.
HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, now using his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, addressed a crowd as they chanted "Allahu akbar (God is greatest)," with videos shared by the rebels on their Telegram channel. As he entered the mosque, the crowd cheered in celebration, as shown in footage circulating online.
22:18 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: US President Biden to meet with national security advisors on Syria
US President Joe Biden is set to meet with his national security advisors on Sunday to discuss the situation in Syria, where Islamist-led rebels have claimed control of Damascus and ousted President Bashar al-Assad.
The United States has kept a relatively low profile in its response so far, as global leaders have called for peace, celebrated Assad's downfall, and urged a political solution to stabilize the country.
National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett announced on X (formerly Twitter), "The President will meet with his national security team this morning to receive an update on the situation in Syria."
The United States has kept a relatively low profile in its response so far, as global leaders have called for peace, celebrated Assad's downfall, and urged a political solution to stabilize the country.
National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett announced on X (formerly Twitter), "The President will meet with his national security team this morning to receive an update on the situation in Syria."
22:01 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: EU chief offers to help rebuild a Syria that protects minorities
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Sunday that the EU is prepared to assist in rebuilding a Syria that ensures the protection of minorities following the fall of Bashar al-Assad.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), she said, "Europe stands ready to support efforts to safeguard national unity and rebuild a Syrian state that protects all minorities."
Describing Assad’s regime as a “cruel dictatorship,” von der Leyen called its collapse a historic moment for the region, presenting both opportunities and risks.
She added that the EU is in contact with key leaders in Europe and the region and is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), she said, "Europe stands ready to support efforts to safeguard national unity and rebuild a Syrian state that protects all minorities."
Describing Assad’s regime as a “cruel dictatorship,” von der Leyen called its collapse a historic moment for the region, presenting both opportunities and risks.
She added that the EU is in contact with key leaders in Europe and the region and is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation.
21:44 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Israeli strikes set ablaze Damascus security buildings
A war monitor reported that Israeli strikes hit Syrian government security facilities in Damascus on Sunday, just hours after rebels took control of the capital.
According to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the strikes targeted a security complex near former regime buildings, including sites for intelligence, customs, and military headquarters.
According to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the strikes targeted a security complex near former regime buildings, including sites for intelligence, customs, and military headquarters.
21:31 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Leader of Syria's biggest rebel faction calls Assad's fall a 'victory to the Islamic nation
The leader of Syria’s largest rebel faction, in his first public appearance since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, described the event as “a victory for the Islamic nation.”
Speaking after rebel forces entered the Damascus suburbs on Saturday, Abu Mohammed al-Golani visited the historic Umayyad Mosque in the capital. Now using his real name, Ahmad al-Sharaa, he addressed a crowd of hundreds, accusing Assad of turning Syria into “a farm for Iran’s ambitions.”
Speaking after rebel forces entered the Damascus suburbs on Saturday, Abu Mohammed al-Golani visited the historic Umayyad Mosque in the capital. Now using his real name, Ahmad al-Sharaa, he addressed a crowd of hundreds, accusing Assad of turning Syria into “a farm for Iran’s ambitions.”
21:05 (IST) Dec 08
UK PM urges peace, stability in Syria after Assad fall
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Sunday urged for peace and stability in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad by an Islamist-led rebel offensive.
"The Syrian people have endured Assad's brutal regime for far too long, and we welcome his departure," Starmer said in a statement.
He emphasized the need for a political solution and the restoration of peace, also highlighting the importance of protecting "civilians and minorities."
"The Syrian people have endured Assad's brutal regime for far too long, and we welcome his departure," Starmer said in a statement.
He emphasized the need for a political solution and the restoration of peace, also highlighting the importance of protecting "civilians and minorities."
20:38 (IST) Dec 08
Italy’s foreign minister Antonio Tajani said on Sunday that an armed group entered the garden of the Italian ambassador's residence in Damascus and stole three cars. This occurred after Islamist rebels claimed they had seized control of the city.
20:27 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: UN Syria envoy says all armed actors in Syria must maintain law and order
Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen called on all armed actors in Syria to uphold law and order and safeguard public institutions. Speaking on Sunday in Doha, Pedersen also stated that he had no information regarding the whereabouts of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
20:03 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Egypt calls for consensus, reconstruction in Syria after Assad's fall
Egypt called for national unity and reconstruction in Syria on Sunday, following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad by rebels who took control of Damascus.
In a statement, the Foreign Ministry urged Syrian parties "to unify objectives and priorities and initiate a comprehensive and inclusive political process that lays the groundwork for a new phase of consensus and internal peace."
The ministry also emphasized Egypt's commitment to collaborating with regional and international partners to assist the Syrian people, support reconstruction efforts, and facilitate the safe return of refugees to Syria.
In a statement, the Foreign Ministry urged Syrian parties "to unify objectives and priorities and initiate a comprehensive and inclusive political process that lays the groundwork for a new phase of consensus and internal peace."
The ministry also emphasized Egypt's commitment to collaborating with regional and international partners to assist the Syrian people, support reconstruction efforts, and facilitate the safe return of refugees to Syria.
19:47 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Indian Embassy continues to remain operational in Syria
Indian Embassy continues to remain operational in Damascus, Syria. The Embassy is in touch with all Indian nationals, and they are safe. The embassy remains available to assist Indian nationals in Syria, news agency ANI reported quoting Sources
19:43 (IST) Dec 08
This followed a rapid rebel advance that led to the end of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s rule. Netanyahu said that the long-standing agreement had collapsed, with Syrian troops abandoning their positions, which led to Israel's decision to take over the area.
19:17 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Islamist rebels say chief arrives in Damascus
Syria's rebels announced on Sunday that Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the leader of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, had arrived in Damascus just hours after fighters seized the capital and declared the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. In a statement on Telegram, the group identified him by his real name, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and claimed he "knelt down" upon arriving in the Syrian capital. A video surfaced showing him kneeling in a field, bowing his head to the ground.
18:55 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Netanyahu says Israeli forces have seized buffer zone in Golan Heights after Syrian unrest
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that Israeli forces had seized a buffer zone in the Golan Heights, which was established by a 1974 ceasefire agreement with Syria. This move came after a swift rebel advance led to the end of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's rule. Netanyahu stated that the decades-old agreement had collapsed, and Syrian troops had abandoned their positions, prompting Israel to take control.
Israel captured the Golan Heights during the 1967 Middle East war and subsequently annexed it, though the international community, except for the United States, considers it occupied Syrian territory.
Israel captured the Golan Heights during the 1967 Middle East war and subsequently annexed it, though the international community, except for the United States, considers it occupied Syrian territory.
18:43 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Qatar foreign ministry says Syria must not descend 'into chaos'
Qatar's foreign ministry on Sunday cautioned that Syria must not be allowed to descend into chaos after Islamist-led rebels announced they had taken Damascus and ousted President Bashar al-Assad. The Gulf state stated it was "closely monitoring the developments in Syria" and stressed "the necessity of preserving national institutions and the unity of the state to prevent it from sliding into chaos."
18:32 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Jordan's King Abdullah urges avoidance of any conflict in Syria that might lead to chaos
Jordan's King Abdullah on Sunday called for efforts to prevent conflict in Syria that could result in chaos, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the security of Syria, Jordan’s northern neighbor. The statement was released by the Royal Hashemite Court.
18:19 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Saudi is in contact with all Syria stakeholders
Saudi Arabia is engaging with regional actors to help prevent a chaotic outcome in Syria, a Saudi official was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters on Sunday. "We have been in contact with all actors in the region. We are in constant communication with Turkey and every stakeholder involved," the official stated. The official also noted that the kingdom does not have information on Bashar al-Assad's current location.
17:56 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: No room for turning back, the future is ours, says HTS commander
HTS commander Golani in a statement read on Syrian's state tv said, "There is no room for turning back, we are determined to continue the path we started in 2011"
17:49 (IST) Dec 08
As the founder of the Al-Nusra Front (ANF), his group was synonymous with extremist ideology, brutal tactics, and a global terrorist entity by the United States in 2013. Yet today, Jolani is crafting a dramatically different image, one that positions him as a pragmatic leader of Syria’s rebel stronghold.
17:35 (IST) Dec 08
Russia announced on Sunday that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad had resigned following discussions with various parties involved in the conflict and had left the country, though his destination was not disclosed. "As a result of talks between B. Assad and a range of participants of the conflict on the territory of the Syrian Arab Republic, he took the decision to resign from his presidential post and leave the country, giving instructions to proceed with the peaceful transfer of power," stated Russia's Foreign Ministry. The ministry clarified that Russia did not participate in these talks.
17:31 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Turkey says in contact with Syria rebels to ensure security
Turkey’s foreign minister Hakan Fidan said on Sunday that Ankara is in contact with rebel groups in Syria to prevent the Islamic State (IS) group and the PKK from gaining ground following the fall of Damascus to anti-government forces.
Speaking at the Doha Forum in Qatar, Fidan emphasized the importance of vigilance during this transitional period. "We have communication with the groups to make sure that terrorist organisations, especially Daesh and PKK, are not taking advantage of the situation," he stated.
Speaking at the Doha Forum in Qatar, Fidan emphasized the importance of vigilance during this transitional period. "We have communication with the groups to make sure that terrorist organisations, especially Daesh and PKK, are not taking advantage of the situation," he stated.
17:16 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Rebels announce curfew in Damascus
Syrian rebels announced on Sunday a curfew in the capital Damascus starting 4 pm local time until 5 am.
17:03 (IST) Dec 08
Madrid wants "any solution for the future of Syria to be a peaceful one... that benefits the Syrian people and in some way brings new stability to the Middle East and not more instability", foreign minister Albares told Spanish public television.
16:50 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: France welcomes fall of Assad, warns against 'extremism'
France on Sunday expressed support for the fall of Bashar al-Assad, describing it as an end to over a decade of "violent oppression against his own people." In a statement, Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Christophe Lemoine called on Syrians to embrace "unity and reconciliation, and to reject all forms of extremism."
16:36 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Turkey says Assad 'probably outside of Syria'
Turkish foreign minister Hakan Fidan stated on Sunday that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is likely no longer in the country after Islamist-led rebels claimed he had fled.
"Assad is probably outside of Syria," Fidan said during an event in Qatar when asked about Assad's location and potential risks to his safety. A day earlier, Fidan met with his counterparts from Iran and Russia, Assad's allies, at the Doha Forum.
"Assad is probably outside of Syria," Fidan said during an event in Qatar when asked about Assad's location and potential risks to his safety. A day earlier, Fidan met with his counterparts from Iran and Russia, Assad's allies, at the Doha Forum.
16:29 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Turkey says millions of displaced Syrians 'can return'
Turkey foreign minister said on Sunday that millions of displaced Syrians 'can return to their land', after fall of Assad regime
16:18 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Diplomats left Iranian embassy in Damascus before 'assault'
Iranian media reported that Iranian diplomats in Damascus evacuated their embassy before it was attacked on Sunday. This followed the Syrian rebels’ announcement of the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s Tehran-backed government. According to the Tehran Times, embassy staff were safely evacuated before the assault.
16:07 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Assad flees Damascus, Army surrenders; celebrations Erupt
15:50 (IST) Dec 08
The aftermath of Assad’s removal risks creating a dangerous power vacuum. Syria is fragmented both geographically and socially, making this a dangerous moment.
Divisions between different rebel groups controlling various regions may lead to competition for power. Without a coordinated effort to manage this transition, the country could descend into further violence and chaos.
Divisions between different rebel groups controlling various regions may lead to competition for power. Without a coordinated effort to manage this transition, the country could descend into further violence and chaos.
15:32 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Iranian embassy in Damascus 'attacked'
Iran's embassy in Syria was attacked on Sunday, Iranian state television reported, after Islamist-led insurgents proclaimed the downfall of Tehran's ally Bashar al-Assad following an extensive offensive that culminated in Damascus.
"Unidentified perpetrators have breached the Iranian embassy, as evidenced in these images, disseminated across various networks," a state television broadcaster announced, displaying footage purportedly from within the diplomatic premises.
"Unidentified perpetrators have breached the Iranian embassy, as evidenced in these images, disseminated across various networks," a state television broadcaster announced, displaying footage purportedly from within the diplomatic premises.
15:07 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: China hopes Syria 'returns to stability as soon as possible'
The Chinese foreign ministry issued a statement on Sunday expressing their desire for Syria's swift return to stability, following claims by Islamist-led opposition forces about capturing Damascus and forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee.
The statement from Beijing emphasised that they are monitoring the Syrian situation attentively.
The statement from Beijing emphasised that they are monitoring the Syrian situation attentively.
14:31 (IST) Dec 08
'Assad defeated': Rebels declare 'Syria is free' in Damascus; Syrian PM addresses nation
14:05 (IST) Dec 08
"Assad is gone. He has fled his country. His protector, Russia, Russia, Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, was not interested in protecting him any longer. There was no reason for Russia to be there in the first place. They lost all interest in Syria because of Ukraine, where close to 600,000 Russian soldiers lay wounded or dead, in a war that should never have started, and could go on forever," Trump said in a post.
"Russia and Iran are in a weakened state right now, one because of Ukraine and a bad economy, the other because of Israel and its fighting success. Likewise, Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness. They have ridiculously lost 400,000 soldiers, and many more civilians. There should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin. Too many lives are being so needlessly wasted, too many families destroyed, and if it keeps going, it can turn into something much bigger, and far worse. I know Vladimir well. This is his time to act. China can help. The World is waiting!" he added.
"Russia and Iran are in a weakened state right now, one because of Ukraine and a bad economy, the other because of Israel and its fighting success. Likewise, Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness. They have ridiculously lost 400,000 soldiers, and many more civilians. There should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin. Too many lives are being so needlessly wasted, too many families destroyed, and if it keeps going, it can turn into something much bigger, and far worse. I know Vladimir well. This is his time to act. China can help. The World is waiting!" he added.
13:45 (IST) Dec 08
As Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad abruptly left the country, opposition forces entered Damascus with little resistance, marking the end of his 24-year reign. Reports indicated that Assad boarded an aircraft and departed for an undisclosed location, according to two senior military officials.
Following his departure, videos surfaced showing crowds storming into the Presidential Palace in Damascus, looting his belongings. The scene unfolded as the long-time leader, who had ruled with an iron fist, fled the capital, leaving behind a nation in turmoil.
Following his departure, videos surfaced showing crowds storming into the Presidential Palace in Damascus, looting his belongings. The scene unfolded as the long-time leader, who had ruled with an iron fist, fled the capital, leaving behind a nation in turmoil.
13:10 (IST) Dec 08
Once operating from the shadows, Jolani has increasingly taken on a public role, marking a significant shift in his persona. During the recent offensive, he was seen in Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, after it was captured by rebels for the first time in the war. Previously known for his reclusive nature, Jolani has now abandoned the traditional turban associated with jihadists, opting instead for military fatigues and a khaki shirt, presenting a more practical and adaptable image.
During a visit to Aleppo's citadel last Wednesday, Jolani was seen waving to crowds, further distancing himself from his earlier secretive image. He has also begun signing statements under his real name, signaling an effort to align himself more closely with his roots and distance himself from his militant past.
Born in 1982 to a well-off family in Damascus’ Mazzeh district, Jolani's path to jihadism reportedly began after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Inspired by the attackers, he attended secret sermons in Damascus and later joined Al-Qaeda in Iraq. He was detained for five years before returning to Syria in 2011 to found the Al-Nusra Front, Al-Qaeda’s Syrian branch. In 2016, Jolani severed ties with Al-Qaeda, claiming it was to avoid Western retaliation. However, his group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), remains classified as a terrorist organization by Western governments.
During a visit to Aleppo's citadel last Wednesday, Jolani was seen waving to crowds, further distancing himself from his earlier secretive image. He has also begun signing statements under his real name, signaling an effort to align himself more closely with his roots and distance himself from his militant past.
Born in 1982 to a well-off family in Damascus’ Mazzeh district, Jolani's path to jihadism reportedly began after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Inspired by the attackers, he attended secret sermons in Damascus and later joined Al-Qaeda in Iraq. He was detained for five years before returning to Syria in 2011 to found the Al-Nusra Front, Al-Qaeda’s Syrian branch. In 2016, Jolani severed ties with Al-Qaeda, claiming it was to avoid Western retaliation. However, his group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), remains classified as a terrorist organization by Western governments.
12:53 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Israel deployed forces in demilitarised buffer zone along northern frontier
The Israeli military announced on Sunday that it had deployed troops to "other places necessary for its defence," aiming to secure the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights. The military emphasized that this deployment was solely for the protection of Israeli residents and was not intended to interfere with the internal events in Syria.
Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war and later annexed the region, though this move is not widely recognized internationally, with many viewing the territory as occupied. A subsequent ceasefire agreement established a demilitarized buffer zone between the two countries, prohibiting military presence or activity from either side. Since 1974, United Nations peacekeepers have been stationed to monitor the area.
In related developments, the head of the US-backed Kurdish-led forces praised the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war and later annexed the region, though this move is not widely recognized internationally, with many viewing the territory as occupied. A subsequent ceasefire agreement established a demilitarized buffer zone between the two countries, prohibiting military presence or activity from either side. Since 1974, United Nations peacekeepers have been stationed to monitor the area.
In related developments, the head of the US-backed Kurdish-led forces praised the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
12:07 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Toppled 'tyrant' Bashar al-Assad, say rebels on Syrian state TV
Syrian rebel factions announced early Sunday in a message broadcast on state television that they had overthrown "tyrant" Bashar al-Assad and freed prisoners who had been unjustly detained.
A group of individuals was shown at the state television news studio, where one read a statement from the "Damascus Conquest operations room." The statement declared, "The liberation of the city of Damascus and the fall of the tyrant Bashar al-Assad," and announced the release of all those unjustly detained by the regime. The rebels also called on fighters and citizens to protect the "property of the free Syrian state."
A group of individuals was shown at the state television news studio, where one read a statement from the "Damascus Conquest operations room." The statement declared, "The liberation of the city of Damascus and the fall of the tyrant Bashar al-Assad," and announced the release of all those unjustly detained by the regime. The rebels also called on fighters and citizens to protect the "property of the free Syrian state."
11:43 (IST) Dec 08
Syria Civil War Live: Rebels say released all those 'unjustly detained' under Assad
The fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government on Sunday marked a dramatic end to his nearly 14-year struggle to maintain power as his country disintegrated in the midst of a brutal civil war, which became a proxy battlefield for regional and international forces. Assad's downfall starkly contrasted with his early months as president in 2000, when many hoped he would bring reform after his father’s 30-year authoritarian rule. At just 34 years old, the Western-educated ophthalmologist was seen as a tech-savvy, gentle leader, far removed from his father’s iron grip.
However, when protests erupted against his regime in March 2011, Assad quickly adopted the harsh tactics of his father to suppress them. As the protests spiraled into a full-blown civil war, Assad unleashed his military to target opposition-held cities, relying on support from allies Iran and Russia. International rights groups and prosecutors accused the Syrian government of widespread torture and extrajudicial executions in its detention centers.
However, when protests erupted against his regime in March 2011, Assad quickly adopted the harsh tactics of his father to suppress them. As the protests spiraled into a full-blown civil war, Assad unleashed his military to target opposition-held cities, relying on support from allies Iran and Russia. International rights groups and prosecutors accused the Syrian government of widespread torture and extrajudicial executions in its detention centers.
11:18 (IST) Dec 08
Hafez al-Assad served as the president of Syria from 1970 until his death in 2000, shaping the country through military dominance, political maneuvering, and brutal repression. Born into the Alawite minority, a sect of Shia Islam, Assad rose to prominence within the Syrian military during the sectarian struggles of the 1960s. As defense minister and air force commander, he played a key role in the 1966 Baath Party power struggle, ultimately seizing control in a bloodless coup on November 13, 1970. This marked the end of Syria's tenth military coup in seventeen years, ushering in a fragile stability after years of turmoil.
Assad solidified his power by using the Baath Party as a front, while positioning Alawite members in key military and intelligence roles, particularly within special forces and the armored corps. In 1982, when Muslim extremists in Hama revolted, Assad’s forces brutally suppressed the uprising, leveling much of the city and killing thousands of civilians.
Despite the repression, many Syrians valued the relative stability Assad's rule provided after years of upheaval. He governed through emergency decrees for over three decades, leaving behind a legacy of both fear and admiration. After his death in 2000, power passed to his son, Bashar al-Assad.
Assad solidified his power by using the Baath Party as a front, while positioning Alawite members in key military and intelligence roles, particularly within special forces and the armored corps. In 1982, when Muslim extremists in Hama revolted, Assad’s forces brutally suppressed the uprising, leveling much of the city and killing thousands of civilians.
Despite the repression, many Syrians valued the relative stability Assad's rule provided after years of upheaval. He governed through emergency decrees for over three decades, leaving behind a legacy of both fear and admiration. After his death in 2000, power passed to his son, Bashar al-Assad.
11 More Updates
Syrian Civil War Live Updates: US military forces carried out a significant aerial operation targeting over 75 ISIS positions across Syria. The operation, which is part of ongoing efforts to disrupt and defeat ISIS, aimed to prevent the group from conducting external operations and exploiting the current instability in Syria. The strikes involved multiple US Air Force assets, including B-52 bombers, F-15 fighter jets, and A-10 ground attack aircraft. CENTCOM reported that the strikes hit key targets with no indication of civilian casualties, and battle damage assessments are currently underway.
General Michael Erik Kurilla stressed the US’s commitment to preventing ISIS from reconstituting itself in Syria, stating, "We will hold accountable any groups that partner with or support ISIS in any way." CENTCOM, in collaboration with regional allies, will continue operations to degrade ISIS’s capabilities, despite the evolving situation in Syria.
In a separate development, US President Joe Biden addressed the recent downfall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, describing it as a "fundamental act of justice." While acknowledging the uncertainty that this moment brings, Biden emphasised the historic opportunity it presents for the Syrian people to rebuild their country after years of suffering under Assad’s brutal rule. The collapse of Assad’s 24-year regime followed a series of key rebel victories, including the capture of Homs and Damascus. As Assad fled Syria, celebrations erupted across the country, marking the end of over five decades of Baathist authoritarian rule. This momentous change signals both the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for Syria.
General Michael Erik Kurilla stressed the US’s commitment to preventing ISIS from reconstituting itself in Syria, stating, "We will hold accountable any groups that partner with or support ISIS in any way." CENTCOM, in collaboration with regional allies, will continue operations to degrade ISIS’s capabilities, despite the evolving situation in Syria.
In a separate development, US President Joe Biden addressed the recent downfall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, describing it as a "fundamental act of justice." While acknowledging the uncertainty that this moment brings, Biden emphasised the historic opportunity it presents for the Syrian people to rebuild their country after years of suffering under Assad’s brutal rule. The collapse of Assad’s 24-year regime followed a series of key rebel victories, including the capture of Homs and Damascus. As Assad fled Syria, celebrations erupted across the country, marking the end of over five decades of Baathist authoritarian rule. This momentous change signals both the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for Syria.
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