Syrian rebel fighters destroyed the tomb of late president Hafez al-Assad, father of ousted president Bashar, in their family's hometown. The rebels, led by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), ended the Assad dynasty's 54-year rule. Bashar al-Assad has fled to Russia where he and his family have been given asylum.
Key Points
Rebels led by HTS destroyed Hafez al-Assad's tomb
Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia for asylum
Transition of power to rebel-led government
Signs of returning normalcy in Damascus
Pros
End of Assad dynasty's rule
Transition towards a new government
Symbol of change and potential for stability
Cons
Loss of historical monument
Potential targeting of Alawites by victorious rebels