On December 7, as rebel forces advanced toward Damascus, preparations were made at the Presidential Palace for a speech by President Bashar al-Assad, which was intended to announce a power-sharing plan with the political opposition. Despite the escalating situation outside, Mr. al-Assad displayed no alarm, and his aides were led to believe the palace's defenses were secure.
Unexpectedly, Mr. al-Assad covertly departed the capital, first flying to a Russian military base and then to Moscow. His brother, Maher al-Assad, along with senior military officers, also fled to Iraq. Many aides remained in the palace unaware of the president's escape until after midnight, when they panicked and abandoned their posts.
The sudden departure of Mr. al-Assad ended his family's 50-year rule over Syria and resulted in significant upheaval in the region. Attempts by foreign diplomats to negotiate a peaceful exit for Mr. al-Assad were unsuccessful, as his military intelligence reports detailed a swift collapse of his forces.
In the weeks leading to his flight, Mr. al-Assad, supported by allies like Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah, faced increasing challenges as rebel advancements led to losses, including the strategic city of Aleppo. Despite prior reassurances from his supporters, it became clear that the situation had drastically deteriorated.
Panic swept through Damascus as rebels seized control of Homs, heightening fears for the capital's stability. Many residents began to prepare for possible conflict while military intelligence reports indicated that Mr. al-Assad's forces were failing to hold their positions.
As night fell on December 7, chaos ensued among military ranks, with reports of disarray and abandonment of posts. Meanwhile, the staff at the Presidential Palace awaited a speech from Mr. al-Assad that would never occur, and the president's absence became apparent only after the rebels began to enter the capital.
In the ensuing chaos, reports surfaced of disorder at military installations, as soldiers disregarded orders to defend the capital. With Mr. al-Assad's flight, many aides felt betrayed, expressing disbelief at the sudden turn of events.
On December 8, among those imprisoned at Sednaya prison was Bilal Shahadi, who experienced an unexpected release as the regime crumbled. His escape marked a significant moment amid the broader upheaval, as many prisoners celebrated their newfound freedom.