The Syrian Prime Minister expressed readiness to initiate the power transfer process to the opposition.

The Prime Minister of Syria, Mohammad al-Jalali, expressed his readiness to cooperate with any leadership elected by the people. This statement came after the entry of rebels into Damascus, their establishment of control over the capital, and the apparent downfall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime.

This was reported by RBK-Ukraine citing Associated Press.

The head of the Syrian government emphasized that he remains in the country and spoke about the transfer of power functions to a "temporary government," which may include representatives of the opposition.

In a video address published on Jalali's Facebook page, he mentioned that he would go to his office in the morning to continue his work. The politician noted that the government is ready to "extend a hand" to the opposition and transfer the functions of a transitional government to them.

"This country can be a normal country that builds good relations with its neighbors and the world… but this issue depends on any leadership elected by the Syrian people. We are ready to cooperate (with this leadership) and offer all possible conveniences," he stated.

The Syrian Prime Minister also urged the citizens of Syria not to damage state property.

Despite widespread media reports about President Assad allegedly fleeing Damascus on a plane, Jalali did not clarify in his statement whether the president had indeed left the country.

The Entry of Rebels into Damascus and the Collapse of Assad's Regime in Syria

Earlier that night, it was reported that Syrian rebels entered the country's capital, Damascus, on December 8 after a rapid advance and captured the city of Homs the day before.

High-ranking Syrian army officers told Western media that President Bashar Assad left Damascus - he used a plane and flew in an unknown direction.

It is reported that the General Staff of the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) informed military personnel about the fall of Assad's regime and ordered them to lay down their arms. Syrian rebels have already declared the success of the revolution.

Additionally, the day before, Bloomberg reported that Assad allegedly requested help from the U.S. and Donald Trump through intermediaries, in an attempt to either remain in power or secure agreements for a safe exile if needed.