Syrians in Scotland 'over the moon' after Assad regime overthrown

Syrians in Scotland say they are “over the moon” after the regime of dictator Bashar Assad was overthrown.

Overnight on Sunday, a lightning rebel offensive seized control of Damascus, the Syrian capital, and President Assad is now reported to have fled to Moscow.

The fall of the regime came after 13 years of civil war.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged all sides to protect civilians and ensure aid could reach the vulnerable as he responded to the overthrow of a “barbaric regime”.

Meanwhile, First Minister John Swinney stressed the need for a stable solution.

Omar Al Hmdan, who moved to Aberdeen in 2016, told STV News: “It was a dream for all Syrian people who had been waiting for this great dream.

“To get freedom after a long time, I’m over the moon. I feel like I can’t even describe my happiness.”

He added: “It was difficult to move from Syria. In the night, you could hear bombs and rockets – it was a nightmare for me and my children.

“We were suffering to find a safe place for my family.”

Mihmoud Al Sharif in Glasgow said: “Everyone is happy Assad is going. Syria after Assad is going to be a nice and safe country.”

Ali Al Sharif in Glasgow added: “I’m happy that Assad is gone but sad that so many people have had to flee the country.

“I see people out crying, too many are scared and don’t know what’s going on.

“But it is better in Syria now, we have doctors and teachers.”

The UK has paused decisions on asylum applications from Syrians following the collapse of Assad’s regime.

Millions of Syrians fled the country after the outbreak of civil war and the Assad regime’s brutal crackdown on opponents.

Thousands of Syrians have been granted asylum in the UK, but the Home Office said decisions on applications would now be paused while events unfold in Damascus.

A Home Office spokesman said: “The Home Office has paused decisions on Syrian asylum claims whilst we assess the current situation.

“We keep all country guidance relating to asylum claims under constant review so we can respond to emerging issues.”