A man identifying himself as Travis Timmerman, an American from Missouri, has surfaced in Syria after reportedly escaping from prison amid the recent upheaval caused by the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad.

Timmerman, 29, claimed he was freed earlier in the week when the new regime forces overran the prison where he had been for more than six months. 

In an interview with CBS News, Timmerman said he entered Syria without permission seven months ago after spending time in Lebanon. His stated purpose was a Christian spiritual journey.

Upon his detention, he endured what he described as relatively humane treatment, though he was restricted in movement and faced limited access to facilities.

"The experience wasn't too bad," Timmerman said, adding, "The worst part was not being able to go to the bathroom when I wanted." He recounted that two armed men broke down his cell door, marking the start of his escape.

After leaving the prison alongside a large group, Timmerman began a journey toward Jordan, relying on locals for food and shelter. He expressed gratitude for the help he received, noting that people approached him to offer assistance during his trek.

The US government confirmed awareness of the case and stated it was working to provide support. Details remain limited, with officials citing privacy concerns.

Timmerman had been listed as missing in both Hungary and the US earlier this year, with reports indicating he was last seen in Budapest in June. His unexpected appearance in Syria has raised questions about his journey and the circumstances of his detention.

As of now, Timmerman said his focus has been on basic survival. "I still haven't really processed that I'm free," he admitted.

HTS takeover

The Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group has swiftly consolidated its authority over Syria, demonstrating the same rapid pace that characterized its takeover of the country, Reuters reported.

The group has deployed police forces, installed an interim government, and initiated meetings with foreign envoys, prompting concerns about the inclusivity of Damascus’ new leadership, the news agency pointed out.

Since HTS ousted Bashar al-Assad on Sunday as part of an alliance, its officials—formerly running an Islamist administration in a remote corner of northwestern Syria—have taken over government offices in Damascus.

On Monday, Mohammad al-Bashir, previously head of the regional government in HTS-controlled Idlib, was appointed as Syria’s interim prime minister. This move underscored HTS' dominance among the armed factions that fought for over 13 years to end al-Assad's rule.

Though HTS severed its ties with the al-Qaeda terrorist organization in 2016, it had assured tribal leaders, local officials, and civilians during its advance toward Damascus that minority faiths would be protected.