In an unprecedented wave of joy, Syrians flooded the streets both domestically and internationally, celebrating the dramatic downfall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. This monumental shift comes after a coalition of opposition fighters launched an astonishing offensive that captured key territories and dismantled the long-standing authoritarian rule.

In Homs and Damascus, enthusiastic crowds voiced their hopes and dreams, sharing stories of pain transformed into relief and joy. Here are their poignant sentiments:

Nour Abdulmawla, a 32-year-old fighter from Homs, expressed his disbelief at the joyous turn of events. "By God, it's something indescribable. After 10 years away from my family due to the war, I finally reunited with them—this feeling is unparalleled. I hope our brothers and sisters in Palestine will soon experience similar joy. We've witnessed the fall of the regime that instilled fear; today, it’s liberation."

Amidst the celebrations, Majd Shahoud, a 38-year-old from Bab Sbaa in Homs, recounted the cruelty experienced under the regime. "We were deprived of basic necessities like electricity and water. Today, as I see the joyful faces of my fellow Syrians, I am overwhelmed with emotion. We have all endured so much pain, losing loved ones forever. Finally, we feel avenged."

Youssef Beyraqdar returned to Homs after years spent in exile due to ethnic cleansing. He described the mixed emotions upon his return, saying, "We cried and screamed in joy. I visited my father’s grave and thanked him for his strength, even though he passed away last year while I was away. Together, we will rebuild our city and demand justice for all those who suffered under the regime."

Zainab al-Hussein, celebrating in Damascus, noted the overwhelming sense of relief and happiness at the regime's end. "For years, we faced oppression. The sound of celebration outside my window was surreal—I never thought I would see this day. We are ready to embrace a brighter future, free from fear."

Hajja Majida Hilal, a 65-year-old Palestinian refugee in Damascus, shared her relief and newfound hope for the future. "We lived in constant fear. The loss of my son-in-law was a traumatic memory from the early days of the conflict. Now, with this victory, I am filled with joy and hope for a peaceful and prosperous Syria. I want to freely share sweets and happiness with everyone around me."

Laith al-Balouth, a proud Druze man, voiced his commitment to the values of unity and dignity among Syrians. He emphasized the importance of collective support for the new government, hoping it will protect the rights and dignity of all citizens. "Syria is our only home; we are filled with gratitude and determination to build a new future together. Today is a celebration of freedom and a call for justice."

The celebrations across the country underscore a powerful desire for change, democracy, and healing after years of turmoil. With renewed hope, these citizens are eager to reshape their futures and ensure that the cries for justice and accountability reshape the very fabric of post-Assad Syria.