Main content

Syria: What you need to know

And who are the Syrian rebels who toppled Assad’s rule?

The world was stunned over the weekend as rebel forces in Syria captured the capital of Damascus, forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee and ending the final chapter of his violent regime. Assad is reported to have fled to Russia whilst opposition forces now loot his empty palace and people celebrate on the streets.

But who are the Syrian rebels who toppled Assad’s rule? And why has it happened now after decades of the Assad family in charge.

Five Â鶹ԼÅÄ experts - Frank Gardner, Lyse Doucet, Lina Sinjab, Mina Al-Lami and Barry Marston - take us through the story.

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Emily Horler and Emilia Jansson
Editor: Verity Wilde

This audio was updated after publication and a name correction was made on the 17th December.

Available now

14 minutes

Last on

Tue 10 Dec 2024 03:50GMT

Broadcasts

  • Mon 9 Dec 2024 18:50GMT
  • Tue 10 Dec 2024 03:50GMT

Podcast