Former Syrian Prime Minister Offers Cooperation Amid Opposition Advances
In a significant turn of events, former Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad al-Jalali declared his readiness to cooperate with any leadership chosen by the Syrian people. His announcement came shortly after opposition factions reported entering the capital, Damascus, and claimed that President Bashar al-Assad had fled the city. Al-Jalali's speech, broadcast on his Facebook account, emphasized the potential for Syria to become a normal state that fosters good relations with its neighbors and the international community. He stated, "We are ready to cooperate with it so that we can provide them with all possible facilities."
Opposition Forces Enter Damascus
The situation in Damascus escalated dramatically as armed opposition groups announced their entry into the capital. Ahmed al-Sharaa, the Commander-in-Chief of the opposition's military operations, urged his fighters to respect public institutions and maintain order. In a message shared via the opposition's Telegram account, he instructed forces to avoid approaching state institutions, which would remain under al-Jalali's supervision until an official handover could take place. Al-Sharaa also emphasized the importance of humility and gratitude as they enter the city, highlighting the need to preserve state institutions for the Syrian people.
Assad's Whereabouts Remain Uncertain
As the opposition made strides in Damascus, reports surfaced indicating that President Assad had left the capital for an undisclosed location. This development raises questions about the future of the Assad regime and the potential for a power transition in Syria. The rapid unfolding of events suggests a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, with the opposition gaining ground and former officials expressing a willingness to facilitate a peaceful transition.