Syrian opposition cancels curfew, encourages citizens to rebuild nation

The opposition now in power in Syria has announced the cancellation of the curfew in Damascus.

The announcement was published on the Telegram channel of the Military Operations Directorate (the governing body of the opposition forces), Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

"Dear residents of Damascus and the surrounding province, we inform you that the Military Operations Directorate has lifted the curfew in the city," the statement reads. The Syrian opposition also lifted the curfew in surrounding areas.

"We urge our citizens to return to their workplaces and institutions and, together with us, contribute to new Syria," the statement from the Military Operations Directorate reads.

In late November, armed opposition forces launched a large-scale offensive on Syrian army positions. 

On December 8, they entered Damascus, prompting government forces to withdraw from the city and the imposition of a curfew. Syria's prime minister has expressed readiness for a peaceful transfer of power within the republic. Bashar al-Assad resigned from the presidency and left the country, giving instructions for a peaceful handover of authority. 

On December 9, a curfew was imposed in Damascus and the surrounding capital province, as well as in the Syrian cities of Latakia and Tartus, from 17:00 to 5:00 (GMT+3). Exceptions were made for medical personnel, emergency responders, firefighters, representatives of national defence services, and internal security forces. The new authorities have promised to punish violators of the curfew with a one-month prison sentence.

By Naila Huseynova