A 'liberated' Syria celebrates Christmas season two weeks after fall of Assad: Video
Two weeks after the ousting of long-time leader Bashar al-Assad by Islamist-led rebels, Syrians are marking this year’s festive season with renewed joy and hope.
In the capital, Damascus, residents have flocked to the city’s illuminated Christmas markets, capturing moments of celebration and unity.
"The Christmas atmosphere this year is very beautiful," said Aya, a Damascus resident, speaking to AFP. "Every year we eagerly await the opening of the Christmas market to go shopping and have a good time. This year, the ambience is even more joyful because Syria was liberated and our problems have finally been resolved."
The city’s vibrant markets have drawn crowds from diverse backgrounds, with Muslims joining Christians in the festivities. "Muslims are coming to the Christmas market more than Christians," shared Batoul Al-Law, another Damascus resident. "We have always celebrated both Christian and Muslim holidays together, and this has not changed at all since the revolution. On the contrary, you feel that people are now happier and more comfortable."
The festive celebrations come just weeks after al-Assad fled the country on December 8, marking the end of more than 50 years of rule by the al-Assad family.
