Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Al-Jalali was seen escorted by rebel forces in Damascus on Sunday, December 8, reportedly heading to a hotel to formally hand over government authority.
In a video circulating online, Al-Jalali, surrounded by armed men, is seen descending a set of steps and entering a black SUV alongside another individual.
A voice in the video says, “The former prime minister is with the 5th Corps from the people of Hauran, heading to the Four Seasons Hotel for a meeting to hand over the country’s institutions to the heroes of the Free Army.”
Reports indicate that Al-Jalali, who had been hiding at a hotel in Damascus, has agreed to transfer power to the leadership of the Transitional Opposition Government.
In an earlier video, the prime minister stated his intent to “ensure the operation of public institutions, state facilities, and the preservation of safety and security for all citizens.”
Meanwhile, rebel fighters declared Damascus “liberated” in a televised announcement aired on state television.
Footage shared on social media showed armed fighters on the grounds of the Syrian presidential palace on Sunday, celebrating by firing guns into the air near a gatehouse on the southern edge of the palace grounds. The scene appeared to be otherwise deserted.
