Syrians who fled home rejoice at Assad’s ouster, although some are cautious

Syrians across the Middle East celebrate the fall of the al-Assad regime and express hope to return to their homeland.

Beirut, Lebanon – Youssef Salah and Mohammad Mahmoud exchanged joyful cheek kisses from their motorbikes in Cola Roundabout, a busy transport hub in Beirut.

“Today is the best morning,” the smiling Mahmoud, 20, said. “We feel the biggest joy,” he gestured at Ali al-Abed, 20, who was seated behind him.

“We’re from Deir Az Zor,” al-Abed said, adding: “Free Deir Az Zor, write it down like that!”

A man from south Lebanon buying breakfast from a kaak (a type of Arabic bread) vendor shouted over: “Who will rule you now? The Americans, the Israelis?”

“I don’t know, but it’s been 13 years,” Mahmoud shouted back. “Khalas [enough]!”