In a night celebrated as the dawn of a new era, Syrian revolutionary forces achieved a stunning series of victories, liberating the cities of Homs and Damascus from the grip of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Jubilant citizens flooded the streets early Saturday, waving revolutionary flags and embracing the hope of a free Syria after decades of tyranny.
Colonel Hassan Abdulghani of the Command of Military Operations (CMO) confirmed the liberation of Homs, declaring, “After several successful night operations, remnants of the criminal regime are fleeing Homs. Forces are now advancing into the city’s neighborhoods, conducting sweeps in preparation to declare it fully liberated, God willing.”
The announcement marked the culmination of an 11-day offensive under the banner of the Repelling the Aggression campaign, which has restored four major cities – Daraa, Quneitra, Suwayda, and Homs – to the control of revolutionary forces within 24 hours. Joining Idlib, Aleppo, and Hama among freed provincial capitals and securing the largest cities in the country.
The revolution’s most poignant victory came hours later in Damascus, the heart of Assad’s rule. Colonel Abdulghani proclaimed the city free of Assad’s tyranny, stating, “This is the moment long awaited by the displaced and prisoners – the moment of returning home and the moment of freedom after decades of oppression and suffering.”
The CMO also announced the liberation of prisoners from the infamous Sednaya prison. Former detainees, many of whom had spent years in darkness under brutal conditions, emerged into the early morning to tearful reunions with their families.
Ahmad Al-Sharaa, more widely known under his nom de guerre Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, called it a historical event that “distinguishes truth from falsehood.” He urged fighters to act with compassion, saying, “Show mercy to the people, protect those who lay down their arms, and do not pursue those who flee.”
The victories have reignited hope among Syrians at home and abroad. The Command of Military Operations celebrated the beginning of a new chapter, declaring the end of the oppressive Baath regime:
“After 50 years of oppression under Baath rule, 13 years of crime, tyranny, and displacement, and a long struggle against all forms of occupation, we declare today, December 8, 2024, the end of this dark era and the beginning of a new chapter for Syria.”
In Homs, celebrations erupted as 3,500 political prisoners were released from the city’s military prison. Across the country, displaced Syrians began preparing to return home, buoyed by the promise of safety and freedom.
Despite the victories, revolutionary leaders emphasized restraint and responsibility. Al-Sharaa urged fighters in Damascus to respect public institutions and ensure an orderly handover. “Approaching public institutions is strictly prohibited,” he warned, pledging oversight by former officials until the transition is complete.
The revolution also extended its hand to those who chose neutrality. Abdulghani commended the residents of the Sayyida Zainab neighborhood, a former stronghold of Iranian and Hezbollah troops, for their courage in abandoning the regime, assuring their safety, and welcoming them to the fold of a united Syria. The CMO sent a message to displaced Syrians worldwide, inviting them to return to a free homeland. “To the displaced around the world, free Syria awaits you,” read their statement.
International observers noted the rapid withdrawal of Iranian forces and the weakening of Assad’s remaining allies. The New York Times reported that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a key faction in the revolution, pledged to protect Syria’s Shiite minority and other religious sites, signaling a commitment to unity.
As revolutionary forces continued their operations in Deir Ezzor, Colonel Abdulghani reflected on the momentous progress: “After 11 days of repelling the aggression, Allah has granted us success in stopping Assad’s aggression on his people.”
For Syrians who have endured decades of oppression and over a decade of brutal war, the liberation of Homs and Damascus is more than a military victory – it is the realization of a dream for justice, dignity, and a brighter future.
