Syrian soldiers have been complaining about corruption and misconduct within their own military for years, and this internal deterioration played a role in President Bashar al-Assad's fall from power. As rebels advanced on the capital, Damascus, many soldiers chose to strip off their uniforms and get out of the way. The deterioration of al-Assad's military was a result of corruption, desertions, failed internal reforms, and a dependence on foreign forces. The rebels' advance was also aided by their own organization and momentum, as well as al-Assad's effective abandonment by his foreign allies.