On Sunday, rebel fighters made a bold declaration on Syrian state television, announcing the liberation of the capital city of Damascus from the rule of Bashar al-Assad. The spokesperson, surrounded by fellow rebels, proclaimed the overthrow of Assad and the release of oppressed prisoners from regime prisons.
The rebels emphasized the importance of protecting all property in the newly liberated Free Syria, calling for unity among Syrians of all sects. This announcement came after the rebels successfully entered Damascus and captured state media offices.
One significant development was the claim by Syrian rebels that they had seized control of the notorious Saydnaya Military Prison located north of Damascus. Saydnaya has gained infamy as 'the human slaughterhouse,' as documented by Amnesty International in a 2017 report detailing mass hangings at the facility.
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights also highlighted the pervasive use of torture, enforced disappearances, and other forms of inhumane treatment within Syrian detention facilities, including Saydnaya.
The rebels' declaration marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict in Syria, with the capture of Damascus symbolizing a major blow to the Assad regime. The situation remains fluid, and the international community closely monitors developments in the region.
