Syria enters new era after Assad’s ouster, as citizens celebrate nationwide VIDEO

Tens of thousands of Syrians gathered at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus for the first Friday prayers since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, marking a significant moment in the country’s history.

In a powerful display of unity, Syrians both within the country and abroad celebrated the removal of Assad by replacing the regime’s flag with one adopted by opposition groups. The regime's traditional flag, featuring a red fess, was altered to a green fess, accompanied by three red stars representing Syria’s three main districts: Aleppo, Damascus, and Deir Az Zor, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

A first: For the first time in 53 years, Friday prayers are held in Syria without Assad and Baath Party influence. pic.twitter.com/jCzbmmAbuD

— Clash Report (@clashreport) December 13, 2024

Verified videos circulating on social media show a large demonstration in Sweida, a predominantly Druze city in southwestern Syria, where people gathered in jubilation over Assad’s ousting. Thousands of demonstrators chanted slogans invoking national unity and recalling the Syrian revolution. Similar scenes were witnessed in Aleppo, where hundreds gathered after Friday prayers to express their gratitude for the fall of a regime they had long sought to overthrow.

Victory celebrations in front of Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque in Homs, Syria.

There are scenes like this in almost all Syrian cities today. pic.twitter.com/vot6jHMkmk

— Clash Report (@clashreport) December 13, 2024

The atmosphere was reminiscent of the early days of the Syrian uprising 14 years ago, when Syrians flooded public squares in protest and defiance. Now, after years of struggle, the people are celebrating the end of the regime they have fought against for so long. In Aleppo, the Ar-Rahman Mosque was packed with worshippers, and horns blared in the streets as people moved towards central squares to continue their celebrations.

Despite the bitter cold, the mood was festive, with flags waving and people emotionally reuniting with loved ones. For many, this was a moment of overwhelming joy, as some had been separated from their families for years.

It is a special day for millions of Syrians who now have a chance to live according to what their wishes are, in a Syria that is led by Syrians for Syrians, according to Syrians’ aspirations.

By Vafa Guliyeva