(MENAFN) The Syrian Army announced on Sunday that President Bashar Assad's 24-year rule has ended, following a rapid offensive by jihadist forces on Damascus. According to an army officer speaking to Reuters, the announcement marks a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.

Jihadist groups have claimed that Damascus is "now free of Assad" and are expected to make their first public statement through state TV, as reported by two anti-government sources.

In response to the uncertainty, Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad al-Jalali expressed his willingness to cooperate with any leadership chosen by the people, although he confirmed that he remains at home and supports the continuity of government.

Ahmed Al-Sharaa, a leading figure in the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has issued orders preventing militants in Damascus from approaching government institutions or firing weapons into the air. He stated that these institutions would remain under the control of the "former prime minister" until they are officially handed over to the new authorities.

Over the weekend, HTS fighters and other anti-government militias entered Damascus, taking control of the capital. Flight tracking websites have also shown that Assad’s plane has left the city.

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