- Mass rallies in Syria celebrate end of Assad regime
- Large crowds assembled for the first Friday prayers since rebels took power
- G7 preparing to meet to address situation in Syria
Mass rallies in Syria celebrate end of Assad regime
Syria is witnessing mass celebrations as citizens gather to mark the end of five decades of rule by the Assad regime. Images from Damascus show large crowds assembling for the first Friday prayers since Islamist rebels seized control of the capital on Sunday.
Former President Bashar al-Assad has fled to Russia, where he and his family have been granted asylum. Rebel forces, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa—better known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani—captured Damascus, solidifying their control. Al-Sharaa has vowed to pursue officials implicated in torture and announced plans to close the regime’s infamous prisons.
Global Support for a new Syria
Diplomatic efforts are accelerating as the G7 nations prepare to meet virtually to address the situation. The group, comprising the US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan, has expressed readiness to support an inclusive, non-sectarian government in Syria.
In a joint statement released Thursday evening, the G7 emphasised the need for the next Syrian government to uphold universal human rights, including protections for women, religious minorities, and ethnic groups. The international community has called for a stable and just transition to ensure safety and equality for all Syrians.
