Syrian rebel forces announced a major breakthrough Sunday, claiming to have entered the capital city of Damascus without encountering military resistance. The move comes as President Bashar al-Assad's 24-year rule faces unprecedented challenges following a lightning-fast rebel takeover of Homs, Syria's third-largest city.
Key developments:
Rebels declared control of strategic Homs after just one day of combat
Sednaya military prison near Damascus reportedly liberated, with claims of mass prisoner releases
No visible army presence detected in initial Damascus advances
The Sednaya facility, long criticized by human rights groups, has been described as a symbol of government oppression. Rebel statements framed the prison's capture as "the end of an era of injustice."
Analysts suggest the twin victories in Homs and Damascus could represent a turning point in Syria's 13-year conflict. However, the situation remains fluid with international observers closely monitoring developments.
Key developments:
The Sednaya facility, long criticized by human rights groups, has been described as a symbol of government oppression. Rebel statements framed the prison's capture as "the end of an era of injustice."
Analysts suggest the twin victories in Homs and Damascus could represent a turning point in Syria's 13-year conflict. However, the situation remains fluid with international observers closely monitoring developments.
