The Day Damascus Changed Hands

Pre-dawn reports indicated Syrian opposition forces entering Damascus as Assad's forces withdrew from the airport. By morning, multiple sources reported Assad's departure on a flight that disappeared near Homs. Syrian Prime Minister announced readiness to work with opposition leadership.

Israel mobilized its 98th Division to the Golan Heights, while declaring the collapse of the disengagement agreement. Netanyahu ordered military control of the buffer zone, citing security concerns. Russian bases maintained presence but announced non-interference policy.

Lebanese officials focused on border control and detainee files, with reports of Syrian refugees beginning return movement through Masnaa crossing. By evening, Moscow confirmed granting asylum to Assad and family, while Syrian opposition provided security guarantees to Russian military bases. U.S. Central Command reported strikes against ISIS targets in central Syria, indicating continued Western military presence.