Syrian Rebels Claim to Have Entered Damascus

Damascus, Dec 8 – The Syrian Opposition has claimed that rebel fighters entered the capital city of Damascus early on Sunday, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The Observatory reported that hundreds of government soldiers were ordered to leave Damascus International Airport. Soldiers were seen changing out of their military uniforms into civilian clothes, according to the Xinhua news agency.

Some media outlets have suggested that Syrian President Bashar Assad has left the country, based on claims from rebel forces. However, the Syrian presidency stated on Saturday that Assad is still in the capital, performing his duties.

In Damascus, Xinhua reporters heard heavy gunfire echoing through the streets, and traffic jams formed as many cars left the city.

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Jalali addressed the situation in a speech posted on Facebook shortly after the rebels’ claim. He said he was ready to “work with any leadership chosen by the people” and urged citizens not to damage public property.