Watch: Syrians share their thoughts one year on from the fall of AssadOne year ago today, Bashar al-Assad's 24-year rule came to an end, bringing a close to 13 years of brutal civil war.On 8 December 2024, Assad stepped down as Syria's president and fled to Russia, marking one of the most significant political shifts in the Middle East in decades.Twelve months on, the dust has begun to settle but the country is still grappling with the immense social, political and emotional toll left behind.While Syria's interim government has promised to protect all its citizens, not just the majority population of Sunni Muslims, hundreds of people from the country's Alawite and Druze minorities have been killed in sectarian attacks, including by members of the government's forces.The BBC's Middle East correspondent, Hugo Bachega, is in Syria's capital, Damascus, speaking to Syrians about how life has changed since the revolution. 1 day agoMiddle EastDamascusSyrian civil warBashar al-AssadSyriaShareSaveBethlehem Christmas tree illuminated for first time since Gaza war beganHundreds gathered in Manger Square to bask in the festivities that included music, dancing and Santas bearing sweet treats.Middle EastPopemobile becomes a mobile health clinic for Gaza childrenThe vehicle had transported the late Pope Francis on a visit to Bethlehem in 2014.Middle EastGazan babies will die without aid - UN humanitarian chiefAbout 14,000 babies will die in 48 hours if aid does not reach them, a UN humanitarian chief warns.Middle East'We want to raise our children': Life in Gaza after hostages and prisoners releasedThe United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) says over 80% of all buildings in the territory are destroyed or damaged.Middle East'Indescribable happiness' as detainees return to GazaIsrael says it has released 1,968 prisoners and detainees as part of a ceasefire deal with Hamas.Middle East'It will be a golden age for the Middle East' - TrumpThe US president was speaking at the Israeli parliament after the release of all 20 living hostages from Gaza.Middle EastWatch: Palestinian prisoners released in West Bank to rapturous crowdsIsrael is releasing 250 Palestinian prisoners as part of the ceasefire deal with Hamas.Middle EastWatch: Emotional reunions as freed hostages return to IsraelVideo released by the Israeli military shows Mor smiling and embracing two relatives. Middle EastFreed hostages shown in first video from IDFThe footage shows Alon Ohel and Guy Gilboa-Dalal speaking to Israeli soldiers after being freed from Hamas captivity in Gaza.Middle EastWatch: Emotional moment mum video calls hostage son ahead of reunionEinav Zangauker, the mother of a hostage freed from Hamas captivity and brought to Israel, spoke with him via video call for the first time in two years.Middle EastIsraeli crowds cheer at news of first hostages released in GazaLarge numbers of people packed out Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, where screens were erected to welcome home hostages freed from Hamas captivity.Middle EastWhat do people in the West Bank think about the ceasefire deal?Palestinians in the West Bank say they hope the deal could lead to a united Palestinian future.
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Syrians share their thoughts one year on from the fall of Assad
