Syrian opposition forces have imposed a curfew in Damascus after successfully seizing control of the capital. According to Reuters, the curfew will be enforced daily from 4:00 PM to 5:00 AM to maintain order and consolidate power following the city’s fall.
The capture of Damascus marks a turning point in the Syrian conflict, with opposition groups solidifying their position after an 11-day campaign that dismantled key government strongholds.
Highlights of the 11-Day Campaign:
- Aleppo Secured: The offensive began in northern Syria, where opposition forces swiftly captured Aleppo, the country’s largest city.
- Homs Captured: Rebels advanced south to seize Homs, strategically paving the way toward Damascus.
- Deir ez-Zor and Palmyra Taken: The opposition gained control of the oil-rich Deir ez-Zor region and the historic city of Palmyra, disrupting government supply routes.
- Daraa in Rebel Hands: Securing Daraa, the birthplace of the Syrian uprising, strengthened opposition dominance in the south.
- Damascus Falls: The final assault on the capital began last week, culminating in President Bashar al-Assad fleeing Damascus on December 7.
With Damascus now under rebel control, the Syrian government is deemed dissolved. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) commander Ahmed Al-Sharaa has prohibited militant activities in public institutions and designated former Prime Minister Mohammad al-Jalali to oversee governance continuity.
The curfew aims to ensure stability as the opposition consolidates its authority in Damascus. However, international observers are wary of the potential for further instability and humanitarian crises in the region.
