IDF confirmed that it has deployed forces in the buffer zone on the border with Syria.

The Israel Defense Forces reported that it has moved its forces into the buffer zone and other locations to protect the communities of the Golan Heights and the citizens of Israel. This decision was made after armed forces approached the buffer zone. The IDF, the Israel Defense Forces, does not interfere in the internal affairs of Syria but will act resolutely to protect its country and people.

In the capital of Syria, Damascus, rebels announced the capture of the city and the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. The plane carrying the President of Syria left Damascus and may have crashed. However, there is no official confirmation of this information. The Prime Minister of Syria announced readiness to transfer power to the opposition and to cooperate with the new leadership elected by the people.

Background

The situation in northern Syria escalated in late November when rebels destroyed a large number of militants. They captured the city of Aleppo and are moving further to other areas of the country. Russian military and diplomats decided to leave Damascus due to rising casualties. The wife of President Bashar al-Assad and their three children fled to Russia.