Summary
Yamen, a young man from Damascus, recalls fleeing Jobar in 2013 with his family after it was destroyed by the Assad regime. On December 8, 2024, news of the rebel operation reaching Damascus marked a turning point, leading to celebrations and hope for change. A year later, Yamen feels positive about improvements under Syria's new leadership.
Key Facts
- In 2013, Yamen and his family fled Jobar, a suburb of Damascus, due to its destruction.
- On December 8, 2024, rebels took control of cities like Aleppo, Hama, and Homs, nearing Damascus.
- Yamen witnessed soldiers defecting, leaving their uniforms behind during the events in Damascus.
- Ahmed al-Sharaa emerged as a key leader and was seen entering the Umayyad Mosque.
- Yamen noted improvements in infrastructure, health services, and the economy under the new leadership.
- Freedom of expression has increased compared to the previous Assad regime.
- Yamen saw new government troops responding to protests with violence in Homs.
- On the anniversary of Damascus's liberation in 2025, celebrations occurred in the city.
