Bashar al-Assad leaves Syria by plane as rebels gain full control of key cities

The Syrian government appears to have collapsed after an attack by rebels.

President Bashar al-Assad left Damascus on a plane to an unknown destination, according to two senior Syrian army officers.

Syria's army command has now notified officers that his 24-year rule is over.

It is reported that a few hours ago, the rebels said they had gained full control of the key city of Homs after just one day of fighting.

The Prime Minister of Syria said that he is ready to hand over the government to the opposition in a peaceful transition, he writes sky news, the Telegraph reports.

"I am here in my house," said Ghazi al Jalali.

"I have not left and I have no intention of leaving, except in a peaceful manner that guarantees the continued operation of public institutions and state facilities, promoting safety and security for our fellow citizens," he added.

He said he would go to his office to continue work in the morning and called on Syrian citizens not to damage public property.

However, he did not comment on the escape of al-Assad.

Immediately after that, the rebels announced that it was forbidden to go near public institutions that will remain under the supervision of the "former prime minister".

Now, they are expected to broadcast their first statement to the Syrian people on state television. /Telegraph/