Europe’s maneuver in Munich is not only about Syria — it is also a pointed message to Washington, Firas Faham writes in Syria TV.
Brian Mast addressed Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa directly, underscoring that while the United States has opened channels of communication, it has not extended endorsement.
According to previous Syria TV reports, Syria currently operates 54 diplomatic and consular missions abroad across various continents.
President Sharaa stated that Syria has succeeded in overcoming numerous obstacles over the past year.
“The Israeli position is clear and non-negotiable. There will be no withdrawal from Mount Hermon”, an israeli official said.
The visit follows Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s landmark trip to Moscow in mid-October, where he was received at the Kremlin by his Russian counterpart.
The meeting between Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Vladimir Putin appears to have offered both sides an opportunity to reassess the foundations of their political communication, Malek al-Hafez writes in Syria TV.
Syria’s first post-Assad year closes with an impressive portfolio of diplomatic achievements, many argue, secured at the cost of domestic stagnation.
Both the capital and the SDF face mounting pressure from their respective patrons to reach political settlements that would finally close the eastern file and open the region to the international investment.
Sheikh Ghazal Ghazal, head of the Supreme Islamic Alawite Council in Syria and the Diaspora, issued a rousing video message on Monday, denouncing the nation’s descent into “an arena for sectarian score-settling”.
For Trump, insiders suggest, the ultimate signal of engagement lies not in hosting but in visiting.
Ahmad al-Sharaa’s recent visit to Washington marked a critical waypoint in Syria’s evolving diplomatic trajectory, according to Ulta Syria.
Israeli Defence Forces have intensified their incursions into Syrian territory, al-Hal writes.
The Russian leadership sees an opportunity to support Syria’s calls for calm in the occupied Golan and to contain Israeli actions, Syria TV argues.
Official statements from Syria’s Minister of Information have framed the country’s coalition membership as political rather than military, Ultra Syria writes.
A Russian delegation visited Damascus, accompanied by a Turkish counterpart, to conduct high-level security talk, according to al-Hal.
Foreign Policy has published a penetrating report delineating the contours of Syria’s nascent political era in the wake of the Assad regime’s collapse.
haraa touched down in Washington in the early hours of Sunday for what marks the first official visit by a Syrian president to the White House since the country’s independence in 1946, Shaam writes.
The talks addressed “a range of shared military issues in service to the interests of both countries,” though no further details were disclosed.
Rayburn’s involvement with the Syrian dossier has been shaped through a succession of pivotal roles, Syria TV writes.
Although Russia’s influence in Syria has diminished since Assad’s fall, the Kremlin is playing a long game.
Inside the Presidential Palace, an existential divide between two brothers was embodying the former regime’s dual faces, according to al-Modon.
President Sharaa said Syria would seek to “re-adjust its relations” with Russia and underlined the need for stability.
Analysts suggest the Moscow visit could lead to undisclosed military arrangements, including new field coordination protocols and potential arms deals to modernize Syrian army units for the post-conflict era.
Syrians coined the term takwi’ to ridicule regime loyalists who suddenly rebranded themselves as revolutionaries, Syria TV writes.
Syria urgently needs international reintegration, economic recovery, and sustainable development, al-Hal argues.
Political researcher Saleh al-Abdullah told Al-Ikhbariya that the President’s characterisation of Syria’s liberation as a “historic opportunity” reflects its unique geopolitical role
Qabalan identified Syria’s internal sectarian divisions as its most pressing challenge.
The announcement followed a press conference in Damascus on September 9 by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani alongside a Russian delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak.
Shibani said that despite the heavy toll paid by Syrians in recent years, the country now faces the future with renewed confidence.
On April 8, Shibani announced the restructuring of Syria’s embassies and missions at the direction of Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa.
For years, Goznak has been in the crosshairs of Western governments, Ghazwan Koronfol writes to Enab Baladi.
The vessel MJ Sofia docked in Tartous in the early hours of Wednesday carrying more than 19,000 metric tons of Romanian barley, according to al-Hal.
Damascus views a renewed Russian presence as a potential deterrent against Israeli airstrikes, which Tel Aviv argues are aimed at protecting the Druze community and maintaining control over the Golan Heights buffer zone.
Russia’s involvement in Qamishli dates back to late 2019, when it positioned itself as a buffer force between the SDF and Turkish troops, Daraj writes.
An anonymous source present at a meeting Assaad al-Shibani and members of the Syrian community in Moscow said Sharaa is keen to see Russian military police resume their former positions in the south, Syria TV reports.
Syria TV quotes sources saying that Russia is taking steps to “avoid attention” by conducting movements under cover of night.
Shibani’s visit underscores a sensitive recalibration in Syria–Russia relations, Syria TV writes.
Analysts view Damascus’ outreach as both pragmatic and strategic, Syria TV writes.
This visit represents the most significant development in ties between the new Syrian administration and Russia, the principal backer of ousted president Bashar al-Assad, Syria TV writes.
This economic outreach comes amid an expanding Emirati footprint in Syria’s port infrastructure, 963 writes.
Some Russian analysts suggest the attack may have been aimed not at Moscow, but at Syria’s new president, Syria TV writes.
While recognizing Trump’s move as a step in the right direction, Hof emphasized to al-Majalla the enormity of the task ahead: rebuilding a country devastated by over a decade of war, and reconstituting its political and economic institutions under international scrutiny.
President Sharaa issued a direct invitation to international and regional investors to enter the Syrian market and participate in reconstruction, heralding a phase of broad economic openness, al-Modon writes.
Founded in Moscow, the party reportedly aims to pave the way for the creation of an autonomous coastal region under the nominal authority of Damascus.
To shield itself from Israel, Syria has to remove the very vulnerabilities iit exploits—sectarian divisions, weak institutions, and a fractured social contract, Marwan Kabalan writes.
France has actively mediated between the SDF and the KNC to bridge longstanding divisions and promote a unified Kurdish stance in Syria.
Faced with chronic fuel shortages and an international reluctance to sell oil to Syria, the Damascus administration appears to have turned to Moscow as a substitute for Iranian oil, al-Modon writes.
Putin’s message may serve to distance Moscow from accusations of supporting attempts by regime loyalists to reclaim power.
The first 100 days of this new governance offer critical insight into emerging dynamics, contradictions, and the formidable challenges Syria faces as it seeks to rebuild.
Putin’s message to President Sharaa underscores Russia’s intent to remain a central actor in Syria’s evolving political landscape, Syria TV writes.
As geopolitical transformations continue to reshape the world order, Turkey emerges as a power adept at capitalizing on shifting realities, Samir al-Taqi writes in Naharnet.
Syria’s new leadership, under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, is demonstrating a pragmatic approach to international relations
Israel’s more overt intervention in Syria coincided with the deeply flawed National Dialogue Conference, Iyad al-Jaafari argues in al-Modon.
Syria TV has learned from Iraqi political sources that Baghdad is preparing to receive Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in the coming period, signaling a shift in relations from intelligence-level coordination to full political engagement.
Rami al-Shaer asserted to North Press that Moscow never intended to establish permanent military bases abroad and that the future of Russian forces in Syria is ultimately a decision for the Syrian leadership.
Despite the ongoing withdrawal, the British Ministry of Defense reported that Russia is seeking to retain access to its air and naval bases in Syria,
Key differences remain between the NATO allies—chief among them, the Syrian Democratic Forces, Enab Baladi writes.
Russia’s UN Representative said Moscow is keen on ensuring the participation of all political factions, as well as ethnic and religious groups, in an inclusive dialogue.
Zaman Al-Wasl has obtained an image of an official document issued by the Syrian Ministry of Interior under the deposed regime revealing shocking details about the arrest of two Syrian children in Moscow.
Sources indicated to al-Modon that the meeting between Sharaa and Bogdanov was largely formal, lasting approximately three hours, with both sides maintaining a cautious and measured approach throughout the discussions
Some nations have successfully abandoned militarization in favor of development, Muhammad Berro argues for Syria TV.
Russian diplomatic circles anticipate that the dialogue will address several critical issues left unresolved after the fall of the previous regime, Asharq al-Awsat.
Riad Joudi, Director of Tartous Customs, issued a decree canceling the agreement with the Russian company managing the port.
According to Dalati, preparations for the revolution’s decisive battle began as far back as 2020, following the Moscow Agreement between Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Lavrov criticized the ousted Assad regime for its unwillingness to share power with the Syrian opposition, according to al-Modon.
To succeed, the National Dialogue Conference must transcend the current administration’s unilateral actions and engage a broad spectrum of Syrian society.
Russian authorities have not issued any official statement or comment on the incident, Enab Baladi writes.
The transitional leadership needs to include various political and civil groups, especially those who fought for change against the Assad regime, Sultan al-Ibrahim writes for 963 Media.
Two U.S. lawmakers sent a letter to their administration urging the easing of sanctions on Syria, Jana al-Issa writes for Enab Baladi.
“Hostage Aid Worldwide” stated that it has information confirming that American journalist Austin Tice, missing in Syria since 2012, is still alive, although his current location remains unknown.
The former Foreign minister and vice-President seems to be trying to win a place at the National Dialogue Conference, according to Enab Baladi.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
“We are maintaining contact with representatives of the forces currently in control of the situation in Syria”, said a Kremlin spokesperson.
Three former aides stated that Bashar Assad himself did not inform his brother about his plan to flee, according to Shaam Network.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Wahab, a Lebanese druze politician close to Assad, said he relayed messages from Israel to push Bashar towards “peace”, Shaam Network writes. He also stated that Assad asked him to create problems with other druze leaders in Lebanon.
Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov remarked that Russia is engaged in “constructive talks” with Syrian authorities and expressed hope for retaining a military presence in the country, Syria TV says,
The leader of Hezbollah, a long-time supporter of the former regime, called for “cooperation” with the new powers in Syria.
A meeting took place on Tuesday between officials from the Salvation government and representatives of the ousted regime to facilitate the transfer of institutions and hand over files from the former administration to the new government, set to serve an interim period until March 1, 2025.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Figures such as Qais Saeed, Mohammed bin Zayed, Gebran Bassil, and Suleiman Frangieh found themselves abandoned as Assad fled before dawn, leaving them humiliated, Daraj writes.
Amid changes in Syria’s political landscape, a senior Iranian official disclosed Tehran’s efforts to establish direct communication with factions in the new Syrian leadership.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
“Russian officials are in contact with representatives of the Syrian armed opposition, whose leaders have ensured the security of Russian military bases and diplomatic missions in Syria”
The Iranian Foreign Ministry blamed Assad for not resisting.
The president emphasized that his administration will evaluate the actions of the “opposition fighters” to ensure stability in Syria.
Enab Baladi writes that the regime’s flag was removed from the Syrian embassy in Moscow, although the Syrian revolution’s flag has not yet been raised.
As the opposition finds itself only 26 kilometres south of Damascus, diplomatic sources told Syria TV that Arab and Gulf states have offered Assad an opportunity to leave the country.
The ongoing developments in the Astana process reflect the intricate international and regional dynamics shaping the Syrian conflict, Athr Press says.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The Kremlin-affiliated newspaper VZ described Aleppo’s fall as the opening of a second war front against Russia in Syria, Bassem Mekdad writes in al-Modon.
Sources reported to Athr Press that local armed groups recently attacked the Khirbet Ghazala checkpoint on the Daraa-Damascus international road.
Russian sources revealed that President Assad held important, unannounced talks with President Putin at the Kremlin on Friday, al-Watan says.
The pro-government Athr Press said that the Syrian army regained control of several key villages, including Souran, Taybet el-Imam, and Halfaya.
The recent clashes stem from a combination of unresolved territorial disputes, strategic maneuvering by local factions, and shifting alliances among international stakeholders.
The Moscow Platform recently held a virtual meeting on November 24 to further expand its membership, according to Enab Baladi.
The Moscow Platform for the Syrian Opposition revealed on Monday that it has finalized a cooperation document with a Syrian Kurdish party, opposition bodies, and prominent political figures.
Russian actions serve a dual purpose, with the new observation points aiming to reassure Israel that southern Syria “will not pose a threat to it from Iranian-backed factions in the region”, 963 Media writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Lavrentiev said Russia’s military mandate in Syria does not include preventing arms transfers to Lebanon via Syria, an issue that Israel must address directly with Iran and the Syrian regime without expecting Russian intervention, Basheer Al-Baker said in Al-Modon.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Lavrentiev noted that Moscow had filed a formal protest with Israel after a strike near Hemeimeem, al-Watan writes.
Lavrentiev emphasized that Moscow strongly opposes Israeli raids targeting Syria, according to Athr Press. But he added: “It’s wise to recognize that they [Israel] are very clever and will take steps to ensure their own survival.”
One prominent shift between Trump’s first and current terms is the normalization of relations between Syria and several Arab nations, Athr Press writes.
In the lead-up to the Astana negotiations, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that Turkish and Russian intelligence officers held a meeting at the Russian checkpoint near the village of Tarnaba, al-Araby al-Jadeed reports.
The two platforms further pledged to work together to activate the role of the Negotiating Commission, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Athr Press says that while Trump expressed a desire to withdraw and initiated plans for it, his decision-making was often inconsistent, influenced by his political mood.
Lavrov recalled that Damascus’s conditions for rapprochement include the return of northern Syrian territory currently controlled by Turkey, according to al-Masshad.
Sources suggest that Ankara’s pressure on al-Nusra is to avert a potential military operation that could undermine agreements with Russia, al-Watan says.
Reports indicate that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has begun reducing the influence of his brother Maher’s economic network, Daraj writes.
Russia seeks to persuade Iran not to launch attacks from Syrian territory, Syria TV says.
Sources confirmed to Al-Watan that leaders of the Levant Front have ordered intensified training courses for their members at affiliated training camps, particularly in Azaz.
Commenting on the Russian escalation, Rashid Hourani, a military affairs researcher at the Jusoor Center for Studies, stated that the objective is to send warning messages to opposition factions, Enab Baladi reports.
The U.S. occupation forces have bolstered their base in Shaddadi and relocated air defense systems from the Conoco gas field to the Al-Omar oil field in Deir-ez-Zor, al-Watan writes.
The Syrian Army has significantly reinforced its positions around Aleppo and Idlib, the pro-government al-Watan writes.
Minister Lavrov remarked that the “Astana format has proven effective as a mechanism for promoting a comprehensive resolution to the Syrian crisis,” acknowledging that “more work is needed.”
The HTS and its allies are showing a growing sense of confidence, which could be dangerously misplaced, Ernest Khoury argues in al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
During the Lebanese Civil War in the 1980s, Syria and Hezbollah found themselves on opposing sides, Syria TV writes.
Assad participated in a ceremony on September 15 to celebrate the birth of Prophet Mohammad at the Saad bin Muath Mosque in Damascus
The Council also expressed its hope for the resumption of the Constitutional Committee, Athr Press reports.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Syria said western countries are abandoning their commitment to respect property rights and the principle of state immunity.
A source told the pro-government al-Watan that the upcoming talks will discuss the definition and identification of terrorism.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Moscow has reaffirmed its support for the steps toward rapprochement between Turkey and Syria, al-Watan writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Firas Qaddour, Syria’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources expressed gratitude to Russia, al-Baath writes.
A source told Syria TV that Batal was initially injured and transferred to a hospital, where he remained for four weeks under tight security by the Russian military police.
Investigative efforts have traced the background of the three Syrian nationals associated with Iloma, Iyad Jaafari writes in al-Modon.
The Russian and American sides signed a memorandum on “anti-collision protocols” in December 2019, according to Athr Press.
Russia is attempting to rehabilitate Assad’s image on a regional and international level, Syria TV says.
The rivalry between Russia and Iran in Syria reveals underlying strategic differences, Syria TV writes.
Putin also encouraged Assad to open up to Turkey and drop the preconditions for normalizing relations between Damascus and Ankara, Syria TV says.
Syrian Airlines Director General Hatem Kabbas explained that “the aircraft to be acquired must be exclusively with Russian engines to avoid Western sanctions, Sawt al-Asima says.
Your daily brief of the English speaking press on Syria.
“What I saw in my contacts with the other side is that they are open to negotiation,” Fidan said.
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is actively working to distance himself from Iran’s influence, seeking to isolate himself from regional events and pave the way for
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is actively working to distance himself from Iran’s influence, Abeer Nasr writes in al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Assad’s visit to Moscow comes at a particularly delicate time, Syria TV writes.
Hezbollah has denied responsibility for the recent deadly strike in Majdal Shams, which killed at least 10 civilians in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, contrary
Frequent leadership changes among the opposition hinder progress, Youssef Al-Bustani argues in Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
“Turkey must collaborate with the Syrian regime on issues such as border security, combating terrorism, and the safe return of refugees”, Fidan said.
The Assad Erdogan meeting aims to support the normalization of relations between Turkey and Syria.
Russia seeks high-level coordination with Turkey and the Syrian regime to manage the situation in this region, Syria TV says.
The discussions also encompassed the negotiating body’s preparedness to address all tracks delineated in UN resolutions, including governance, political transition, and electoral matters.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The U.S. is moving beyond conventional strategies, exploring options such as restructuring the Autonomous Administration and SDF, Aqeel Saeed Mahfoud writes in Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
President Putin expressed gratitude for Syria’s solidarity, emphasizing the strength found in unity and the shared commitment to “overcoming terrorism”.
Fidan emphasized the importance of upholding the Astana agreement.
An opposition figure told Enab Baladi that, if such a proposal arises, the Syrian Negotiation Commission will deliberate on it, but said they maintain Geneva as their preference.
Turkey’s regional diplomacy exhibited flexibility, with strategic maneuvers adapting to the shifting realities on the ground, Mohammad Fawaz analyzes for Syria TV.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that the current circumstances do not favour the completion of the Syrian-Turkish reconciliation process.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that the prospects for normalization between Turkey and the Syrian regime have been hindered due to the situation in the Gaza Strip.
On February 28th, protests escalated following the tragic death of a demonstrator during a forcible dispersal by Syrian regime security forces, Shaam Network reported
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The strongest indication of renewed activity came from Russian envoy Alexander Lavrentiev, Abdulmunem Issa writes in the pro-government al-Watan.
Lavrov emphasized that Russia can no longer regard Switzerland as a neutral platform, according to the pro-government Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The Syrian Foreign and Expatriates Ministry issued a statement condemning the U.S. attack, according to al-Watan.
The most recent meeting between Turkish officials and representatives of the Syrian regime occurred in June.
In the week leading up to Astana 21, Turkey’s ratification of Sweden’s NATO accession cast a shadow over Russian-Turkish relations, Abdul Muneim Issa writes in al-Watan.
Lavrentyev has officially stated that the attempt to normalize relations between Turkey and the Syrian regime has failed, according to al-Modon.
Lavrentiev announced Moscow’s plans to host an upcoming summit on Syria, according to al-Baath.
Israeli Operations Target Key Iranian Figures in Syria, Signaling Strategic Shift, according to Syria TV.
As Syrians entered 2023, there was little optimism for positive change. Indeed, the year proved to be a difficult one, Abdulmun’eim Issa says in Al-Watan.
Russian Defense Minister emphasized the imperative of maintaining peace and stability in Syria and the Nagorno-Karabakh region, according to al-Watan.
President al-Assad highlighted that the only topic of significance is the recent developments in Palestine, according to al-Baath.
Vershinin and Sabbagh underscored the importance of averting the spread of the ongoing Gaza war to neighbouring countries, according to al-Modon.
The reasons behind Russia’s decision to remove Shulgin from his post remain unclear, according to al-Souria Net.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The UAE is currently engaged in dialogue with both the Syrian regime and Russia to revive the provision calling for the removal of Iranian militias from the Golan Heights, according to Syria TV.
On Tuesday, high-level discussions took place in Moscow between Syrian and Russian officials, focusing on recent Israeli attacks, according to Tishreen.
The Turkish-Syrian normalization process has hit a roadblock, al-Modon writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Russia’s initial objective was to establish Syria as a secure base for its forces in the Middle East, according to al-Souria Net.
Some say that the Assad regime and Iran may be pressuring Moscow to launch a major military campaign to retake Idleb, according to Baladi News.
The CENTCOM commander has stated that Russia appears to be reducing its provocative actions in Syria, al-Modon reports.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The complementarity of Iranian and Russian roles in the Syrian-Turkish reconciliation file is evident, Munzer Eid writes in the pro-government al-Watan.
The Syrian regime has consistently emphasized the necessity of withdrawing Turkish military installations in northern Syria, Enab Baladi reminds.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Sabbagh currently occupies the position of Permanent Representative of the Syrian Arab Republic to the United Nations, but will be transferred from his current role, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
In Moscow, the Defense Minister conveyed Syria’s profound gratitude towards Russia, according to al-Baath.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The co-chairman of the PYD highlighted the ongoing conflict among major powers in Syria, according to Damas Post.
The Minister of Defense reiterated Turkey’s sincere aspiration for peace with Syria, according to al-Souria Net.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Iran has been actively working to establish a popular resistance among tribesmen in northeastern Syria, Syria TV writes.
Saleh Muslim says the international coalition conveyed to the Autonomous Administration that they are unable to halt Turkish attacks, according to Shaam Network.
The Russian Reconciliation Center in Syria has reported another violation of Syrian airspace by the United States, Athr Press writes.
Jordan believes trade with Syria should be conducted in a balanced manner, according to Baladi News.
The next round of talks in the Astana format on Syria will be held in Kazakhstan before the end of this year, according to Athr Press.
Vershinin confirmed that these vital contacts between the two countries will persist, according to Athr Press.
The American stance towards Assad is directly linked to the ongoing U.S.-Iranian negotiations on the nuclear issue, according to Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Erdogan emphasized that Damascus’ condition regarding the Turkish withdrawal from Syria is unlikely to be met, according to Athr Press.
Damascus said the United Nations could use a border crossing from Turkey to continue delivering aid to Idleb, despite Russia vetoing the UNSC Resolution, according to al-Arabiya.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Hafez el-Assad studies in Russia show that he is under Moscow’s influence, Omar al-Kaddour writes in al-Modon.
Your daily-brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Al-Watan says the Ukrainian army established a special battalion for SDF fighters.
Your daily-brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The escalation of violence in Syria is linked to the trajectory of the Syrian-Turkish rapprochement, Athr Press writes.
Your daily-brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Al-Watan praised Hafez al-Assad for “demonstrating exceptional academic prowess” as he completed his Masters in Pure mathematics.
Assad highlighted the measures taken by Syrian state institutions to facilitate the return of refugees, al-Watan reports.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Lavrentiev stated that all parties involved have endorsed a road map to facilitate the advancement of normalized relations, Athr Press states.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The concluding statement of Astana 20 emphasized the continuation of talks regarding the normalization of relations between Turkey and the Assad regime, al-Souria Net reports.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The UN envoy affirmed that he is closely collaborating with all stakeholders committed to advancing the process, according to al-Souria Net.
Turkey it is treating the Syrian issue with utmost urgency, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The deputy foreign ministers of Syria, Turkey, Iran, and Russia will convene in the Kazakh capital, Astana, on June 21st, according to Athr Press.
Alexander Yefimov candidly acknowledged that the two sides still have a long way to go in bridging their differences, according to Orient Net.
Sources emphasized to Athr Press that the presence of Russian and Syrian forces in Tal Rifaat remains unchanged.
Russian forces have initiated a withdrawal of their personnel from the contact lines in Aleppo, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The Syrian Negotiation Commission reaffirmed its commitment to Resolution 2254 and expressed its willingness to resume direct negotiations with the regime.
America intends on creating a new Free Syrian Army in Raqqa, according to Athr Press.
Turkey will continue its path of reconciliation with Syria following Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s victory, according to al-Watan.
Turkey says it regards the attainment of a solution in Syria in accordance with United Nations resolutions as a primary objective, according to Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
During a Security Council meeting on Tuesday called for the immediate, complete, and unconditional lifting of “illegal unilateral coercive measures”, according to al-Watan.
Syria unequivocally denounces the recent drone attack carried out by the Ukrainian regime on Moscow, according to al-Baath.
Turkey acknowledged that the possibility of such a meeting has not been completely ruled out, according to al-Modon.
The deputy U.S. special envoy for the “international coalition,” expressed serious concern over the camps for displaced people, according to Syria TV.
Russia claims the US military base in Al-Tanf is being used to train ISIS militants for carrying out sabotage acts in its territories, according to Athr Press.
The Turkish Foreign Minister engaged in a telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart about the Syrian file, according to al-Souria Net.
Cavusoglu said that the number of Syrians who have returned to their homeland has already surpassed 550,000 individuals, according to Shaam Network.
During his address at the Arab summit in Jeddah, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad strongly criticized Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, according to Orient Net.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Mekdad said the primary objective of talks was ending any form of illegal military presence on Syrian territory, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The prospects of the Constitutional Committee’s process resuming in the next phase remain uncertain, according to al-Souria Net.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The future resumption of the Constitutional Committee’s work remains uncertain, al-Souria Net writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Foreign Minister Faisal al-Mekdad reiterated that the primary objective is to end the illegal military presence on Syrian territory, according to Athr Press.
According to Cavusoglu, the participants emphasized the importance of advancing the political process in Syria, Baladi News reports.
Mekdad emphasized that Syria and Turkey share common interests and goals, al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Saudi Arabia pushed for the regime’s immediate return to the organization without any conditions, al-Modon writes.
Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar confirmed the establishment of a military coordination center in Syria with the participation of Turkey, Russia, Syria, and Iran, Athr Press writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
It is the US and the European Union that needs to encourage the Arab League to come up with a roadmap for the Syrian crisis, Bassam Barabandi argues in an op-ed.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Turkey said a meeting with Assad should be preceded by a roadmap on terrorism, stability and the political stage, Samir Salha underlines in Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The meeting would also include the Russian and Iranian presidents and be held possibly before the Turkish elections, Baladi News reports.
Syria TV is saying that the talks held in Moscow yesterday focused on Syria’s territorial integrity and the return of Syrian refugees.
Ankara says that the quadripartite meeting planned in Moscow on Tuesday, is part of the efforts to normalize relations with the regime, Asharq Al-Awsat says.
Jaafari said the two nations have shared interests and they do not wish to see their relations deteriorate, according to Baladi News.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
If Bashar al-Assad intends to curb drug smuggling to the Gulf states, he would be targeting Maher al-Assad’s interest, Iyad al-Jaafary writes in Syria TV.
iin exchange for dealing with Assad, the Americans want him to deal realistically with the Kurdish matter, al-Modon reports.
Mevlut Cavusoglu rejected any “preconditions” in the ongoing process of “dialogue-building” with the Syrian regime, according to Syria TV.
Sources close to the regime have reportedly cited Iran’s negative role in obstructing a consensus between Ankara and Damascus, according to Baladi News.
Cavusoglu announced that the meeting of the foreign ministers of Turkey, Russia, Iran, and the Assad regime would take place in early May, according to Baladi News.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The Russian Ambassador to Syria emphasized that the process of normalizing relations between Syria and Turkey is a lengthy one, al-Watan reports.
Mazloum Abdi survived a drone attack on Friday while he was at Sulaymaniyah Airport in Iraqi Kurdistan, according to al-Souria Net.
The rocket fire was attributed to Palestinian factions in Lebanon, al-Tareeq reports.
Despite reservations expressed by the participating countries, sources claim that the Moscow meeting had a positive outcome, according to al-Modon.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The regime insists on obtaining guarantees of a Turkish withdrawal from Syrian territory.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Sinan Ogan has expressed his desire to meet with President Assad.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Sources said the main focus of the intensive consultations of the past weeks was on the guarantees demanded by Damascus, according to al-Watan.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, said the meeting would take place in early April, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Erdogan needs to show that despite all that has happened, he is still capable of putting things right and that he is the one who can solve the problem, according to Athr Press.
Four Kurdish civilians were brutally murdered while celebrating Nowruz in Jindires, according to Baladi News.
Syria regretted that even “the most prominent national humanitarian actors from the Syrian NGOs” were not invited, according to Athr Press.
Assad may be unable to sell Syria to the Russians, Satae Noureddine writes in an op-ed to al-Modon.
Turkey said the decision to postpone the meeting was linked to Russia, according to al-Souria Net.
Samir Salha asks if Moscow decided to delay the summit until after the upcoming Turkish elections on May 14th, in an op-ed to Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Israeli analysts predict that in the next five years, Washington and, consequently Israel will face more crises, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Ahmed Rihawi, the director and media figure of the Orient TV channel, was arrested by Turkish authorities on Wednesday, according to Baladi News.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Moscow is arranging a meeting between Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Russia says the meeting will be a technical one, at the level of deputy foreign ministers, to prepare for the meeting of foreign ministers, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Burak Akçapar, the Deputy Foreign Minister, will attend the quadripartite meeting in Moscow, according to the al-Souria Net.
No representatives of the Syrian regime government were present during the tour of Lattakia, according to al-Souria Net.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Mevlut Cavusoglu announced that Moscow would host a meeting next weekend involving representatives from Syria, Turkey, Russia, and Iran, according to al-Watan.
At the end of December, the OPCW identification team found the Syrian regime responsible for the 2018 chemical attack on the city of Douma, al-Modon reminds.
Assad’s last visit to Russia was in September 2021, according to al-Souria Net.
Normalization of relations between Ankara and the Syrian regime was discussed on the sidelines of the G20 ministerial meeting in New Delhi, according to Baladi News.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Any move towards openness between Arab countries and Syria will come at a cost, al-Modon reports.
Bogdanov confirmed that the foreign ministers of Russia, Syria, Turkey and Iran are arranging for a four-way meeting, according to Baladi News.
Russia stressed that normalization between Damascus and Ankara is not linked to the electoral process in Turkey, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Netanyahu seeks to make it clear to the Iranian regime that air strikes will continue in Syria, according to Orient Net.
Once thriving neighbourhoods are now destroyed and unlivable.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Netanyahu said he agreed with Putin to avoid any military confrontation in Syrian airspace, Baladi News says.
“Diplomatic sources” in Ankara told Al-Watan that the U.S. is trying to sabotage Erdogan’s election campaign.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Diplomatic sources in Ankara confirmed to Al-Watan that Moscow is trying to arrange a meeting between the Syrian and Turkish foreign ministers.
Iran’s involvement would reduce the potential for Turkey’s delays, evasions, and lack of commitment, Athr Press.
During a meeting with journalists, Assad emphasized the need to “deal pragmatically with international and regional transformations,” according to Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press.
Turkey says it wants a quadrilateral meeting in order to advance in rapprochement with Syria, according to al-Watan.
An expert told Athr Press Damascus will not provide free gifts to Ankara, but that dialogue continues.
Pedersen said a political solution in Syria is becoming more complex, according to al-Watan.
The Erdogan regime continues its policy of Turkification of the areas it occupies in northern Syria, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Moscow says preparations are underway for a meeting of the foreign ministers of the two countries in the future, according to al-Watan.
The United States and its Western allies use sanctions to destabilize countries and change their governments, according to SANA.
Nicholas Granger met a delegation from the Kurdish National Unity Parties, according to North Press.
In the last few days, Damascus put forward conditions for continuing talks with Ankara, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The Syrian regime raised its demands in exchange for the normalization of relations with Turkey, according to Syria TV.
Hurriyet suggested that the meeting of the foreign ministers of Russia, Turkey and the Assad regime would be held in January in Moscow, according to Baladi News.
Turkey says a ground military operation in Syria is still an option, according to North Press.
The press has been debating where and when the upcoming meeting between the foreign ministers of Turkey, Syria and Russia will be held
Russia’s intransigent tactic at the UN is shaped by the belief that with enough resistance, the current cross-border aid will be switched to a crossline mechanism, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar asked the opposition not to respond to provocations against them, according to Syria TV.
Nicolas Granger discussed several political issues with officials of the AANES, according to North Press.
The meeting of the foreign ministers of Russia, Turkey and Syria will be held next week in Moscow, according to Baladi News.
Iran did not issue an official statement about Turkish-Syrian rapprochement, according to Syria TV.
Iran also entered the path of rapprochement between Ankara and Damascus, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry revealed a close visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Turkey and Syria without specifying a date, according to Syria TV.
A report published by the Lebanese newspaper An-Nahar on January 7th suggests that a meeting Abu Dhabi is likely, according to Enab Baladi.
According to information available to Asharq Al-Awsat, Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu will meet next Wednesday in Moscow.
Turkey says its meeting with the Syrian regime did not address the issue of Idleb.
Muhammad al-Abo said Turkey has recently changed its policy in Syria according to its interests, according to North Press.
Akar said there would be a continuation of this trilateral meeting held in Moscow, according to al-Souria Net.
Turkey told the opposition its meetings with the Syrian regime did not address the issue of Idleb, according to Baladi News.
The SNC demanded holding an emergency meeting with Turkish officials to get clarification on rapprochement with Damascus, according to North Press.
Iran says Russia, Turkey and Syria have recognized its role in the resolution of the conflict, according to Syria TV.
The cities and towns of northwestern Syria witnessed widespread demonstrations to condemn the Turkish move, according to Enab Baladi.
The SDC called on the Syrians to come together and unite to continue their project of achieving freedom, according to North Press.
Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said the meeting between the defense ministers of Syria, Russia and Turkey was “useful”, according to Enab Baladi.
Ankara wants Syrians on its territory to return to their homeland, according to al-Souria Net.
At least 3,825 people were killed in Syria in 2022, the lowest annual toll since the outbreak of the Syrian conflict, according to al-Modon.
These American movements occur at a time when attention is drawn away by Turkish threats to launch military action, according to Athr Press.
Washington hopes to be able to deploy along direct lines of contact with Turkish forces in northern Raqqa governorate, according to Athr Press.
Russian President Vladimir Putin was the first to call for a return to the agreement during his meeting with his Turkish counterpart, according to Ath Press.
Wheat sent to Syria from the Black Sea port of Sevastopol in Crimea increased 17-fold this year, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
A new process to breathe vitality into the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Syria is ongoing, according to al-Watan.
Relations between the two countries are moving in a positive direction, Baladi News reports.
The new Russian proposal was to withdraw the SDF forces and keep the Kurdish internal security members (Asayish) alongside the Syrian security forces, according to Athr Press.
Switzerland said it is making efforts to ensure that all Russian official delegations can come to Geneva to work in the best conditions, according to al-Watan.
SDF Commander tells Asharq Al-Awsat he won’t visit Damascus before conditions for political solution are available.
Lavrentiev will make a “critical” visit to Ankara this week on December 8th and 9th, according to al-Souria Net.
Damascus is not opposed to normalization with Turkey, according to Orient News.
This is the second such visit in the past ten days, according to Athr Press.
Turkey does not seem to have backing from the U.S. and Russia on a potential ground invasion.
The SDF suggested Turkish ground invasion despite U.S. assurances, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Assad said he expects the level of bilateral meetings with Turkey to increase soon, according to al-Akhbar.
The SDF stressed its commitment to the de-escalation agreement with Turkey, according to Syria TV.
The decision to attack could come at any moment, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
At the end of the Astana 19 meetings, Russia expected a rapprochement between Damascus and Ankara soon, according to Athr Press.
Erdogan confirmed that he did not hold any meetings with the U.S. or Russian president regarding the operation, according to Athr Press.
Sergei Lavrov arrived in the Jordanian capital Amman on Wednesday evening for an official visit, according to Athr Press.
Russian policy in Syria is, for Moscow, one of the pivotal elements in forming a strategy in the Middle East, according to Athr Press.
Awda is forwarding a proposal from Jordan that seeks to market an “Arab” initiative for a political solution in Syria, according to al-Modon.
Lavrentiev pointed out that restoring Syrian-Turkish relations to their normal level requires good intentions from the Turkish leadership, according to al-Watan.
This absence of air strikes in Syria comes as tensions continue to escalate between Israel and Russia, Athr Press reports.
Azaz has seen street protests in the last two days opposed to the extremists’ entry, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Rayburn sharply criticized parties demanding the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria, according to Nedaa Post.
There are some indications that Jaafari’s appointment may signal an acceleration in the Syrian-Turkish rapprochement, a Syrian pro-government media is reporting
Imports from Moscow should be sufficient to meet local demand at least until the middle of next year, according to Syrian government officials, Zaman al-Wasl says
Syrians can expect violence to intensify as Russia demonstrates to its friends in the region it will stay the course in Syria, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
This move may be the first sign of “opening relations” between Turkey and the regime, according to al-Souria Net.
Erdogan reportedly expressed willingness to meet Assad.
Yahya Maktabi stressed that whoever wants to negotiate with the Assad regime unilaterally will bear the consequences of their decisions, according to al-Hal Net.
Clashes and scuffles erupted between the U.S. and Russian forces on the ground in northeast Syria, according to North Press.
Russia proposed organizing a meeting between the foreign ministers of Turkey and Syria.
The Heads of Turkey and Syria’s intelligence agencies have recently met in Damascus, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Hamas issued a statement stressing its intention to build and develop “solid relations” with the Syrian regime, according to Enab Baladi.
The SDC called for ending the Syrian tragedy and finding a sustainable solution via an intra-Syrian dialogue, according to North Press.
The SDF’s dealings with the Kurdish National Council as coming in compliance with American orders, according to al-Watan.
The regime announced the opening of the first center for settling the situation of wanted people from Idleb, according to al-Modon.
Intelligence Online reported that Hakan Fidan and Ali Mamlouk have met again under Russian auspices, according to al-Modon.
Lavrov and his Iranian counterpart affirmed the necessity to find a political solution to the crisis in Syria, according to SANA.
Turkey is mostly pre-occupied by the positions of the Kurdish-led People’s protection units, according to North Press.
Pedersen expressed concern about “disturbing signs of military escalation in several locations across Syria,” according to al-Souria Net.
Erdogan wants to deprive his opponents of the Syrian refugees card, according to al-Watan.
The system was brought back to Russia to strengthen its defence, according to al-Souria Net.
During a visit to Moscow, Faisal al-Mekdad highlighted the importance of Syrian-Russian relations, according to SANA.
Iran said it hopes to see the return of relations between Turkey and Syria, according to al-Souria Net.
Asma al-Assad’s appetite for recovery projects contracts led donors to refrain from providing financial support, according to Syria TV.
The rapprochement will be discussed by Mekdad and Lavrov in Moscow, according to Athr Press.
The SV Konstantin appears to have reached the Syrian port of Tartous, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The minister of defense met his Russian counterpart on the sidelines of the 10th Moscow Conference on International Security, according to SANA.
The first shipment of grain to leave Ukraine under a wartime deal appears to have ended up in Syria, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The Sierra Leone-flagged Razoni set sail from Ukraine’s Odesa port on Aug. 1st, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Despite bombings, a full-scale invasion by Turkey of Nothern Syria is yet to be seen.
Russia insists that actions that could jeopardize Syria’s territorial integrity should be avoided, according to North Press.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Sochi on August 5th, according to North Press.
A group of 100 French lawmakers urged the UN Security Council to impose a no-fly zone on northern Syria, according to North Press.
Israel says the implementation of the air defence system did not impact coordination with Russia, according to Syria TV.
The Jordanian King has said that Amman wants good relations with Iran, according to Arab News.
A senior Arab league official has said that Syria’s return is possible, but not very soon, according to North Press.
Turkish forces escalated their air attacks in areas under the control of the SDF, according to al-Modon.
Turkey says it is still attached to its planned military operation against the SDF.
Israel fears the Russian-Iranian rapprochement will hinder its military operations in Syria, according to Baladi News.
Signed by Ankara and Damascus in July 1998, the Adana agreement establishes security cooperation between the two parties, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Abdi said the U.S. efforts to prevent a Turkish operation in Northern Syria were insignificant, according to al-Watan.
Moscow wants to move the constitutional talks from Switzerland to another country, according to al-Souria Net.
UN expert Richard Gowan said the war in Ukraine has “complicated negotiations on Syria this year”, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Erdogan’s appeal came as diplomats at the UN failed to find a middle ground that could overcome a Russian veto, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Russia says the extension should not exceed 6 months, as opposed to western states that want it to continue for a year, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The vicinity of the al-Tanf base was recently targeted by Russian forces in Syria, according to Baladi News.
The Syrian government is asking the SDF for concessions on the ground, according to al-Watan.
Participants discussed the Russian efforts exerted for Syria’s future and international projects in various fields, according to SANA.
Turkey is not satisfied with Moscow and Washington’s positions regarding its operation in Syria, according to al-Souria Net.
In 2018, Syria also recognized South Ossetia and Abkhazia, prompting Georgia to cut ties, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Lavrov reiterated Russia’s stance on resolving the crisis in Syria in accordance with UN Resolution 2254, according to SANA.
The “new relationship” between Hamas and Damascus will be built on punctual interests, according to al-Hal Net.
Bogdanov claimed once again that Geneva could no longer be the meeting of the Constitutional Committee, according to the Syria Times.
Lavrentiev said Moscow is trying to persuade the Kurds to settle with Damascus, according to al-Watan.
Russia used the Syrian file to send political messages related to Syria itself, but also the war in Ukraine. A look at what the press said.
The U.S. does not want the Syrian parties to unite in the face of Turkey’s threats, according to al-Watan.
The airport is not entirely prepared for such traffic, according to Hashtag Syria.
As it toured Damascus in recent weeks, Asharq Al-Awsat learned that immigration preoccupied the people the most, especially the youth.
A regime defector, testifying before the U.S. Senate, said that Assad and Putin are still committing terrible war crimes in Syria, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Enab Baladi says Russia exaggerates the number of soldiers it keeps in Syria.
Ankara says it must act because Washington and Moscow broke promises to push the YPG 30 km from its borders, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Syria has led two rounds of talks with Russia and Iran on health sector issues, according to SANA.
Russia has revived several economic projects, especially in the field of transports, according to al-Hal Net.
An Iranian minister received on Tuesday a delegation of Syrian businessmen, according to SANA.
Russian and U.S. occupation planes sent warnings to the Erdogan regime with regard to the operation in Syria, according to al-Watan.
Erdogan is hoping to defuse the anger in Turkey related to the presence of millions of refugees.
Busy with its war in Ukraine, Russia is withdrawing gradually from Syria, according to Baladi News.
Al-Watan expects that any Turkish operation in Syria would be limited in scale, focusing on a narrow strip of land.
It is never too late to pursue determined efforts to secure some semblance of justice and accountability. The Syrian Observer sits with Charles Lister.
The latest Israel attacks on Syria had additional significance, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Turkey could block the accession of Sweden and Finland to NATO if doesn’t get the organization to protect a safe zone in Syria, according to the New Arab.
Talks between Turkey and Russia are ongoing, according to al-Souria Net.
Syrians for Truth and Justice revealed that hundreds of Syrian mercenaries have been transferred to fight alongside Russian forces in Donbas, according to Sawt al-Asima.
Russian warplanes targeted opposition positions; a rocket attack killed 10 government soldiers and wounded nine more in the northwest; Kurdish militants fired rockets and mortar shells from Syria on a Turkish military border post; Putin has begun moving troops from Syria to Ukraine
A little more than 6 billion dollars were allocated for Syrians inside and outside Syria.
Lavrov said Oman and Russia shared a “common vision… on many international issues”, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Iranian forces are replacing Russian soldiers as they withdraw from their positions to fight in Ukraine, according to al-Souria Net.
Syria accused the west of politicizing humanitarian aid by imposing political conditions, according to the Syria Times.
Busy with its war in Ukraine, Russia’s influence in Syria is decreasing, according to al-Hal Net.
The Syrian regime is trying to decrease the influence of Russia, according to Iyad al-Jaafari in al-Tareek.
Russia not invited to EU conference on Syria, Minister promises solution to fuel crisis, and regime soldiers injured in various locations. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The Russians don’t seem too keen at the moment to send Syrian fighters to Ukraine, Danny Makki reports for al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Andrei Kortunov, the Director-General of the Russian Council of International Affairs, said the decision won’t impact Russia, according to al-Watan.
Lice spreads in Damascus schools, Syria denies talks with Erdogan, and Kobani under attack. Catch up on what happened this holiday.
At a conference in Russia, the Syrian ambassador expressed gratitude for the Russian intervention in Syria, according to the Syria Times.
It is still possible to resolve the Syrian civil war either via pressure, diplomacy or military power, according to Ibrahim Karatas for the Daily Sabah.
Pro-Iran fighters are controlling old Damascus, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry has reported clear points of disagreement with Turkey over the Syrian issue, according to al-Souria Net.
U.S. confirms support for SDF, but hints at infiltration in eastern Syria base, while Israel strikes west of Damascus. Catch up on everything that happened over the holidays.
The Turkish-Syrian meeting focused on security issues, according to sources in Turkey, al-Modon reports.
Turkey and the SDF are taking advantage of Russia’s involvement in Ukraine to move in northeastern Syria, according to al-Watan.
Oman has donated 100,000 tons of flour to Syria, while Russia refused to help, according to Sowt al-Asima.
Al-Souria Net lists three Russian generals that participated in the operation in Syria and then died in Ukraine.
The U.S. has allowed Turkey to occupy Ain Issa in exchange for cooperation on the Ukraine issue, according to al-Watan.
Moscow considers that it lost control over Assad’s foreign relations after the outbreak of the Ukraine war, according to al-Souria Net.
The regime shelled a village in Idleb, northern Syria, killing for minors, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Syria and Russia are both trying to end American hegemony on trade and finance, according to the Syria Times.
Asharq al-Awsat revisits 4 days of Syrian constitutional talks in Geneva.
The Syrian regime president might visit Saudi Arabia and Egypt after the UAE.
An Israeli website claims that after the UAE, Assad will visit Saudi Arabia and Egypt, according to al-Souria Net.
Will the Syrian opposition seize the opportunity to regain territory while Russia is busy in Europe? Enab Baladi answers.
Will the visit of Assad to the UAE influence the latter’s ties with the U.S.? Al-Araby al-Jadeed answers.
Opposition groups in Daraa are claiming that the U.S. is getting in touch with them, according to al-Modon.
The Foreign Minister of Iran Hossein Amir Abdollahian will visit Damascus on Wednesday, according to al-Souria Net.
The visit of Assad to the UAE cannot be dissociated from global developments, according to North Press.
Russia is reorganizing its forces in Syria, according to Enab Baladi.
Nabel al-Abdullah, the leader of the National Defense Militia in the Christian town of Suqaylabiyah, said he was ready to go fight in Ukraine, according to al-Souria Net.
11 years after the Syrian Revolution, Syria’s future remains uncertain
Russia and the UAE stressed on the need for an international effort to rebuild Syria, according to the Syria Times.
The war in Ukraine will weaken Russia and its support to Assad in Syria, according to Adnan Ali in al-Souria Net.
EXCERPTS
Russia resumed its strikes on Idleb, as a warning to Turkey, according to al-Watan.
Jim Risch said the strategic partners of the U.S. should not rehabilitate Assad, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Russia has gathered 40,000 fighters from the Syrian army and its allies for its war on Ukraine, according to Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Russian media classified Syrian mercenaries fighting for Russia in Ukraine in three categories: Army veterans, Christian militiamen, and opposition fighters, according to al-Souria Net.
Russian media published a video of Russian military units patrolling the Syrian side of the Golan Heights, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Moscow and the U.S. consider that the two issues are separate, according to al-Watan.
The Syrian ambassador to Russia said that the decision of Ukraine to invite foreign fighters to join its army will turn it into a “European Idleb”, according to SANA.
The Jordanian-Syria borders are used to smuggle drugs to the Kingdom, with the apparent knowledge of the Syrian regime, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
As the security situation in southern Syria keeps deteriorating, regime officials are resorting to extortion against Daraa traders, according to Zaman al-Wasl.
The U.S. is using Syria to send messages to Russia over its war in Ukraine, according to al-Hal Net.
The currency in Syria tumbled in the last ten days following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, dropping by over 7 percent relative to the U.S. dollar, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Iran is moving inside Syria to try and consolidate its position.
Faisal al-Mekdad warned of an arm’s race triggered by NATO and the U.S., according to SANA.
The Russian intervention in Syria was a demonstration of Putin’s capabilities, that he might reproduce in Ukraine, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Israel is worried that Putin might hinder its operations in Syria, after it expressed support to Ukraine, according to al-Watan.
Abu Tow, known for destroying Assad regime tanks, offered to fight alongside the Ukrainian army, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
President Assad’s top advisors stood up defending President Vladimir Putin’s policy in Ukraine, according to SANA.
Will the invasion of Ukraine by Russia have repercussions on Syria?
Pedersen met Sergey Lavrov in Moscow to discuss the effects of the military operation in Ukraine on Syria, according to al-Watan.
Faisal al-Mekdad affirmed that the relations between Syria and Russia are strategic, accusing NATO of provoking both countries, according to SANA.
Israeli officials are worried that sanctions on Russia would hinder the cooperation between the two countries in Syria, according to SY-24.
Abdel Basset Sida, former president of the Syrian National Council, heavily criticized the Syrian opposition, according to al-Watan.
Jaafari, the Syrian deputy-FM, has claimed that the Ukraine crisis concerns Syria, as it will determine whether the U.S. can impose a unipolar world order, according to the Syria Times.
Faisal al-Mekdad described the dire situation in Syria in front of a Russian think thank, in a rare occurrence by a regime official.
Syria expressed its willingness to recognize and cooperate with the republics of Luhansk and Donetsk, recognized by Russia, according to SANA.
Bogdanov announced that representatives of Russia, Turkey, and Iran will meet in Antalya for Astana format talks, according to al-Watan.
Mekdad met his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, to discuss cooperation between the two countries, according to SANA.
AANES praised the recent declarations by Bogdanov about the importance of Kurds’ representation in constitutional talk, according to North Press.
Damascus sent military reinforcements to Suweida and began indirect negotiations
The Israeli delegation called for “placing the Druze in the Syrian constitution” following protests in Suweida, according to North Press.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Faisal al-Mekdad received on Wednesday the UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen, according to the Syria Times.
President Assad discussed the importance of the Hemeimeen airbase with the Russian minister of defense, as war with Ukraine looms, according to al-Watan.
Russia has upgraded its air arsenal in Syria, as part of a tremendous military exercise, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Putin did not agree to give up on president Assad in Syria in exchange for greater influence in Ukraine, according to al-Baath.
Six people were killed as a result of terrorist attacks by the regime and the SDF, according to the Shaam News Agency.
The AANES is blaming both Washington and Moscow for Turkey’s pressure on northeast Syria, according to North Press Agency
Belarus plans to deploy up to 200 troops to Syria to serve alongside Russian forces, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Russian military instructors are giving Syrian forces a training course on how to use new air defenses, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The International community is giving up on the Syrian opposition, as the Steps-for-Steps approach probably won’t yield any major concessions from the regime, al-Modon reports.
Russia requested a meeting of the UN Security Council regarding the latest developments in northeastern Syria, claiming that the regime is ready for a new round of the constitutional committee, according to Zaitun Agency.
Russian and Syrian diplomats meet in Moscow, Syrian man from award-winning photograph invited to Italy, and refugees from Syria in Turkey suffer from cold. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The Iranian president noted that Russia and Iran succeeded in defeating terrorism in Syria thanks to the efforts of the Syrian people, SANA reports.
During Raissi’s state visit to Moscow, Putin affirmed that both Russia and Iran participated in the fight against terrorism in Syria, according to SANA.
Anton Mardasov dives into the military doctrine of Putin and how Syria is essential to it, in an op-ed to Asharq al-Awsat.
Cross Border aid to Syria through the Bab al-Hawa crossing was extended de facto for an additional six months after pro-regime media had announced its suspension.
The intensification of Russian activities in Syria is part of the struggle of influence between Iran and Russia, according to al-Hal Net.
Cross-border humanitarian aid to northwest Syria was de facto extended for six months without a new Security Council vote, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Russia has informed the Eighth Brigade of the Fifth Corps, led by Awda, that it is relocating fighters to one of the two fronts, in Idleb or the Badia, according to al-Souria Net.
The mechanism for the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Syria ended on Monday, resulting in uncertainty about the future of cross-border aid, according to al-Watan.
A ground operation in Idleb remains unlikely, even though the region will probably witness breakthroughs in 2022, according to Baladi News.
In order to fulfill their separatist dream, leaders of the SDC and the SDF are turning their back on Russia and the Syrian government, preferring to remain under an uncertain U.S. protection, according to al-Watan.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has advised the SDC to engage in dialogue with the Assad regime, warning that U.S. forces won’t stay forever, according to al-Souria Net.
The return of Syria to the Arab League is not assured, as the regime delays taking steps expected from it on the internal and external levels, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Nasr Hariri’s removal from the Negotiating committee is part of Meslet’s attempt to get closer to Saudi Arabia, according to al-Hal Net.
SDF Commander-in-Chief Mazloum Abdi called for greater security cooperation with the Kurdistan Region of Iraq after deadly attacks there by ISIS, according to North Press.
Moscow is helping Damascus regain control of the northeastern regions of Syria through dialogue with the SDF, according to al-Watan.
The SDC has expressed its readiness to participate in a “genuine, constructive dialogue process” with the Damascus government, according to al-Watan.
The SDF has to choose between Washington, Damascus, and Moscow, according to al-Watan.
Cooperation with the regime in Syria will not necessarily lead to its moderation, Hazem Saghieh writes in an op-ed in Asharq al-Awsat.
Russia has planned to destabilize the northern and eastern parts of Syria in order to expand its influence there, according to al-Hal Net.
The leader of the SDC, Ilham Ahmed, and the Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, discussed the situation in Syria, according to North Press.
Russia successfully pressured Iran to withdraw from the T4 airbase in central Homs, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The Foreign Minister of Russia, Sergey Lavrov, claimed during a meeting with his Lebanese counterpart that some states are hindering the safe return of refugees, SANA reports.
The presence of Iran in Syria is central to the policies of normalization adopted by Arab countries, according to Ibrahim Hamidi in Asharq al-Awsat.
Russia claimed that Israeli airstrikes against Syria are unacceptable, but using power in response to such attacks will be unconstructive, North Press writes.
Turkey’s threats in northeastern Syria have pushed the SDF into a Russian-sponsored rapprochement with the Assad regime.
While the West refuses to recognize his control over Syria, Assad has sought assistance from China and wealthier regional powers like the UAE, al-Araby al-Jadeed writes.
The administration of US President Joe Biden has set five priorities in Syria, none of which call for the withdrawal of Iran, in contrast to the previous administration of President Donald Trump, Asharq al-Awsat writes.
During the meeting between Russia and Syria to follow up on the work of the International Conference on Return of Syrian refugees, several cooperation agreements were signed, SANA writes.
Turkey has suspended its potential military operation against northeast Syria, as a result of the continued refusal from Russia and the U.S., North Press writes.
The two largest opposition groups, the National Coordination Committee and the Syrian National Coalition, failed to reach an agreement to solve their differences, according to Orient Net.
As the U.S. neutralizes the role of the UAE in several files, including in Syria, Abu Dhabi’s move comes to expand its margin in the region, Mohamed Sarmini writes in Nedaa Post.
The recent move by the UAE, which sent its top diplomat to Syria to meet the regime’s president Bashar al-Assad, comes in a period of American disinterest for the Syria file.
Turkey is obstructing the entry of UN relief aid convoys “across established lines” from Aleppo to the “de-escalation” area of Idleb, according to al-Watan.
An upcoming U.S. Russian meeting in Geneva between Brett McGurk and Sergey Vershinin will discuss the situation in Syria, according to Baladi News.
The regime will return to the areas under the control of the PYD, in a way similar to what happened in Daraa and under a decentralization formula, Fouad Alteiko writes in Nedaa Post.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stressed that Western countries impede efforts exerted for the return of the displaced Syrians, according to SANA.
Russia has launched diplomatic efforts with various parties to contain a possible military escalation in northeastern Syria, according to Asharq al-Awsast.
Ahmed al-Jarba, opposition figure and founder of Syria’s Tomorrow Mouvement, has visited Moscow to discuss the Syrian issue with Lavrov, according to al-Souria Net.
Following their meeting on October 22nd, Nafta Bennett and Vladimir Putin have agreed to let Israel attack Iran in Syria, while Russia turns a blind eye, according to al-Modon.
As a Turkish operation in Northeast Syria against the SDF looms, Russia is trying to get the regime and the SDF to cooperate more, according to Athr Press.
A Kurdish-Russian rapprochement is ongoing, as Turkey threatens to intervene militarily in Northeast Syria, according to Enab Baladi.
Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby reaffirmed that Washington wants to maintain the “deconfliction channel” with Moscow in Northeast Syria, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Russia is trying to convince the SDF to withdraw from the Turkish border region, as Turkey threatens to intervene militarily, according to BasNews.
Four Russian warplanes landed in northeast Syria, at the Qamishli International Airport, less than 100 km from a U.S. military base, North Press writes.
Russian forces conducted airstrikes in northern Syria on Saturday in the vicinity of refugee camps near the Syrian-Turkish border, al-Araby al-Jadeed writes.
A Russian military expert said that the U.S. cannot destroy the air defense system of Russia, noting it successfully shot down U.S. cruise missiles in Syria in 2018, according to al-Watan.
There is reportedly a great degree of dissatisfaction in Moscow with the Assad regime and how it is handling the crisis in Syria, according to Nedaa Post.
Syria participated in the 7th International Forum for Religion and Peace held in Moscow, represented by the Minister of Education, according to the Syria Times.
On Monday morning, an Israeli drone targeted positions of Hezbollah and pro-regime militiamen in the southern Syrian governorate of Quneitra, according to Baladi News.
The sixth round of Syrian Constitutional Committee talks ended in total disappointment as the delegations could not agree on a consensus and as no new date was set for the next meeting.
An attack near a bus carrying Syrian soldiers in the Syrian capital Damascus led to the death of 14 regime soldiers, sparking vengeful promises from the regime and condemnation by Russia and Iran, according to SANA and Syrian TV.
Turkish Defense Minister renewed his threat to launch an operation against the YPG in northeastern Syria, following attacks on Turkish officers and villages, according to al-Souria Net.
After the visit of the Iranian Foreign Minister, sources in Iran claimed that a favorable change in dynamic in the Middle East was ongoing, al-Watan writes.
During a meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement, Faisal al-Mekdad met with the heads of several delegations, according to The Syria Times.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan discussed with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, regional developments and bilateral relations, according to the Daily Sabah.
The Director of Jordanian general intelligence confirmed that Jordan’s relations with Damascus have improved, and now focus on common security and economic challenges, according to al-Watan.
In a press conference with his Russian counterpart, the Egyptian Foreign Minister claimed that Cairo is willing to get Syria out of its crisis as it is part of Arab national security, according to Nedaa Post.
A “secret” Jordanian document has proposed a new approach to dealing with the Syrian regime, with support from Washington, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan revealed that he agreed with Russian President Vladimir Putin to implement a “final and sustainable solution” to the conflict in Syria, Athr Press reports.
Russia asks Israel to convince the U.S. on Syria, COVID19 wreaks havoc, and an anti-ISIS operation by the SDF. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
For the third time, Russia has targeted factions close to Turkey in Northwestern Syria, ahead of a summit between Erdogan and Putin, according to al-Souria Net.
The Russian escalation in Idleb is a way for Moscow to weaken Turkey’s position ahead of talks scheduled later this month, according to Baladi News.
Mohammed al-Momani, a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Jordanian Senate expressed his country’s willingness to promote stability in Syria, according to al-Watan.
Following the meeting between Bashar al-Assad and Vladimir Putin, Assad finds himself torn between the conflicting demands of Russia and Iran, according to Baladi News.
A meeting in Sochi at the end of the month is scheduled between Putin and Erdogan in order to determine the future of Idleb, among other files, according to Baladi News.
A delegation from the SDC visited Russia where it met with Russian Foreign Ministry representatives to discuss dialogue with the regime, according to al-Souria Net.
Turkey’s Erdogan is finding itself more and more isolated in Syria, and Russia stresses on the importance of liberating in Idleb, according to al-Watan.
Hazem Saghieh reflects on the new dynamic emerging between Syria and Lebanon, as a new government is formed in Beirut with many pro-Syria figures, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The summit in Moscow between Assad and Putin dealt with military, political and economic files, according to Sputnik Arabi.
The recent concessions by Damascus on the new constitution talks are a way for Russia to extract concessions from the U.S., according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Russian warplanes continue to bombard HTS and Turkish-backed factions in Northern Syria, according to North Press.
Excerpts from an op-ed by Wael Sawah, in which he calls on the Syrian opposition to suspend the political process and the new constitution talks as the regime continues its violent attacks on civilians.
Two Turkish soldiers were killed in Northern Syria, meeting between Israel and Russia to discuss coordination. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The Russian Foreign Minister expressed his country’s hope that the Syrian constitutional discussion committee would resume its work soon, the Syria Times reports.
On Wednesday, the only medical point in the area of Jabal al-Zawiya, in the countryside of Idleb, went out of service after bombing by government forces, according to 7al Net.
Turkish media reported that a ‘historic meeting’ will be held between the heads of the secret services in Turkey and Syria, according to Baladi News.
The recent events in Afghanistan reshuffled the cards in Syria, as the U.S. and Russia prepare for a new round of talks, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The recent Israeli attack on Syria and the subsequent Russian reaction showcased the increasingly frigid relations between Israel and Russia, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The recent extension of cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria has proved to be in favor of Russia and the regime, according to Syria TV.
The Syrian Observer sits with Kheder Khaddour, a researcher at the Malcolm H. Kerr Carnegie Middle East Center, focusing on local identities in the Levant and particularly in Syria, to discuss decentralization.
The National Conference for the Restoration of Resolution has announced its final statement, in which it calls for the fall of the regime, according to al-Modon.
The regime and its allies have launched an attack on Daraa al-Balad, as negotiations to find a solution to the crisis there fail, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
King Abdullah II and President Putin discussed the situation in Southern Syria, primarily its humanitarian aspects, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham forced locals in Idleb to celebrate the victory of the Taliban in Afghanistan, sparking the anger of citizens, according to al-Watan.
The Russian foreign minister said that although dialogue with Washington was encouraging, the path ahead is very difficult, according to al-Baath.
The situation in the area of Daraa will be of primary importance in the talks between King Abdullah II and President Vladimir Putin, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
A meeting is scheduled between President Putin and King Abdullah II to discuss the recent developments in Daraa, according to Baladi News.
An official from the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that Syria could join the Collective Security Treaty Organization if this serves the interests of the two sides, SANA writes.
A decision issued by Damascus banning the import of 20 commodities to Syria, including cashews and raisins, sparked mockery, according to al-Etihad Press.
Ramzy Ezzeldin Ramzy offers in his op-ed two tracks for a political settlement to end the conflict in Syria.
A Russian officer has reportedly expelled the regime’s defense minister from Daraa, as the two have different views on how to deal with unrest in Daraa al-Balad, according to al-Hal.
Alexander Zorin is a Russian officer who has skillfully conducted Russia’s policy in Syria, by building connections with several stakeholders, according to Ibrahim Hamidi for Asharq al-Awsat.
The Ambassador of Russia to the U.S said on Wednesday that Moscow and Washington have conducted a constructive dialogue on Syria between experts, SANA writes.
In his book, “Syria through the Eyes of the Ambassador,” Ömer Önhon recalls how the position of Turkey evolved throughout the Syrian conflict, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
During a webinar organized at the American University of Beirut, seven speakers were invited to share the positions of the various stakeholders on the Syrian conflict and the future of the country.
UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen discussed with the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov issues related to the political transition in Syria and humanitarian aid, according to North Press.
A meeting was held between a prominent Russian general and the command of the 8th brigade in Daraa, according to SY-24.
Talal Naji was elected to succeed Ahmed Jibril, who died on July 7th after months of sickness, as the leader of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command, according to Zaman al-Wasl.
The SDF arrests ISIS fighters, Turkey’s CHP threatens to repatriate refugees, and the UN Human Rights Council calls for accountability against massive displacement. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The Syrian regime has moved the administrative center of the province of Idleb to Khan Shaykhun, according to Nedaa Post.
The SDC says it is ready to dialogue with the Syrian regime, if this could lead to concrete results, according to North Press.
While Russia praises the Kurds and asks them to dialogue with the regime, it prevents the flow of aid into Northeast Syria, according to North Press.
Ibrahim Hamidi claims the U.S has made many concessions to Russia in the file of cross-border humanitarian aid into northern Syria.
Joseph Daher is a researcher specializing in political economy. He wrote extensively on Syria and Lebanon, and most notably authored “Syria after the Uprisings, The Political Economy of State Resilience.” He is affiliated with the European University Institute and its Wartime and Postconflict in Syria program.
Ibrahim Hamidi explains that the military and economic situation are prolonging the status quo in Syria despite the Rome conference.
Ziad Ghosn speculates that the U.S. will not remove sanctions on the Syrian regime unless it gains something out of the bargaining.
Sources claim that Russia is willing to show some flexibility with regards to border crossings in Northern Syria, in exchange for Washington’s leniency when it comes to sanctions, according to Athr Press.
The SDC revealed that it discussed with two delegations of the opposition means of bolstering cooperation in order to reach a political solution for the Syrian conflict, according to North Press.
The National Coordination Body for Democratic Change has repeated that it is not trying to replace the opposition’s National Coalition, according to al-Modon.
A university professor tried to use his connections to be enrolled as a mercenary in Libya, as the economic situation in Syria worsens, according to al-Modon.
New Russian general has shifted Russia’s position in Deraa from mediator to punisher, according to Baladi News.
The Russian president has reaffirmed his commitment to the war on terrorism and peaceful resolution of international conflicts, SANA reports.
As a meeting about the Syrian conflict prepares in Rome, the Biden administration’s position towards Syria and Russia is still subject to debate, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
People in Syria are hoping that the summit between Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin dissuaded the latter from shutting the Bab al-Hawa crossing, Asharq al-Awsat reports.
The Russian president did not make any commitment regarding the renewal of cross-border aid in Syria, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The meeting between the two world leaders brings no hope regarding an imminent political solution in Syria, according to Baladi News.
The WFP has thanked Russia on its national day for helping Syrians ‘have a warm and healthy meal on their tables,’ sparking outrage, according to Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The Russian Foreign Minister accused the US of looting Syria’s natural resources to finance separatist groups, according to SANA.
Columnist Absi Simsim explains in this commentary piece for al-Araby al-Jadeed what’s behind Russia’s recent comments on the possibility of early elections in Syria.
The settlement in the Southern part of Syria, that keeps Assad’s forces out of the region of Deraa, is behind the low turnout in the presidential elections, according to Athar Press.
The Russian agency Sputnik has confirmed that Bashar al-Assad received a first dose of the Sputnik vaccine, before denying those claims, al-Etihad Press claims.
Moscow is putting the option of early elections in Syria on the table in case a new constitution is agreed upon, according to al-Etihad press.
Anas al-Abda claims that Iran is increasing its influence in the regime’s army, according to Etihad Press.
An opposition figure has accused Syria’s president of giving too many resources to its allies including Iran and Russia, according to Daily Sabah.
The director of a Doha-based research institute has encouraged Syrians to search for leadership with national dignity, writes Syria TV.
Russian observers and spectators have voiced their opinions on the upcoming presidential elections in Syria, writes Athar Press.
A meeting between Egypt, Jordan, and Iraq will reveal the results of a Syrian proposal to fight Turkish infiltration, writes Asharaq Al-Awsat.
As part of a series of interviews on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Syrian uprising, the Syrian Observer sits down with opposition member and social scientist Burhan Ghalioun to discuss Bashar al-Assad’s legacy in Syria.
Turkish and Russian defense ministers secure a truce in Idleb, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent and the ICRC sign a cooperation agreement, and the UN urges the UK to rethink Syria aid cuts. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Tensions between Washington and Moscow will have various repercussions for Syria, writes Marwan Qabalan for Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Russia has demanded the opening of borders between opposition and regime areas, writes Al-Souria Net.
As part of a series of interviews on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Syrian uprising, the Syrian Observer sits down with political scientist Steven Heydemann to analyze the economic roots of the Syrian war and current crises.
For the first time in nine years, a new conference for the Syrian opposition will take place in Damascus, writes Etihad Press.
Foreign proxy powers Russia and Iran are competing over hydrocarbons left under regime control, writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
A council hoping to ensure the security of the returning refugees may be headed by a non-Alawite figure, writes ELAF.
Turkey seeks Russia’s support to coordinate the sixth round of Syria’s Constitutional Committee meetings, writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Former US Ambassador to Syria Robert Ford recalls how America misunderstood Syria from the beginning of the war, writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Russian and Israel foreign ministers have pledged to stop Iranian activities in Syria, reports Al-Souria Net.
A foremost opposition figure has decried the upcoming presidential elections as “for show,” writes Syria TV.
As part of a series of interviews on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Syrian uprising, the Syrian Observer sits down with French diplomat Michel Duclos to discuss his experience of working in the country.
Hezbollah’s recent visit to Moscow may be in order to probe Russia’s allegiance to Assad, writes Iran Insider.
The family member of a murdered Syrian citizen has filed a complaint against Russian suspects in Moscow, writes the Syrian Centre for Media and Freedom of Expression.
As part of a series of interviews on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Syrian uprising, the Syrian Observer sits down with historian Dr. Nadine Meouchy to discuss the past, present and future of the country.
The Kremlin’s spokesperson has offered assistance to Bashar Al-Assad and his wife, who have been struck with COVID-19, writes Etihad Press.
Despite Russian promises of fuel and wheat supplies, Damascus has witnessed lengthy queues at gas stations, writes Sowt Al-Asima.
Syria’s minister of foreign affairs has demanded the UN’s neutrality in discussions over the Syrian Constitutions, writes North Press.
A leaked secret message reveals that Assad called for Russian military intervention during the 2013 battles of eastern Ghouta, Sowt Al-Asime reports.
Syria receives coronavirus vaccines from Israel, 21 ISIS jihadists killed in the past 24 hours, and Israeli woman released by Syria in Russian-mediated prisoner swap. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The Syrian Observer sat down for an interview with the former US ambassador in Damascus Robert Ford to discuss his opinion on the new US administration’s role in Syria.
The UN Special Envoy for Syria has paid a “reluctant” visit to Damascus, amid tensions over the stalled Constitutional Committee, according to Al-Watan.
UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen has called for cooperation between Russia and the US in Syria, according to SANA.
Iran is seeking to expand its influence over regime-controlled areas, according to Asharq Al-Awsat.
Syrian opposition figures have proposed to Russia the formation of a joint military council, reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
After a day of negotiations, the UN Security Council has failed to reach a declaration on Syria, according to Zaman Al-Wasl.
The UN’s dream for political transition in Syria has turned into a nightmare, writes Burhan Ghalyoun for Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Russia’s special envoy for Syria has conducted a secret meeting with Assad and “guarantors” of the Astana process, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The Syrian Observer sat down for an interview with opposition figure Jamal Suleiman to discuss Syria’s future in light of impending presidential elections.
A Syrian opposition member has criticized the lack of agreement over the Constitutional Committee writes North Press.
Sergey Lavrov and Mohammad Javad Zarif have met to discuss the crisis in Syria, the need for diplomatic efforts and plans for another meeting of the Astana countries writes The Syria Times.
SDC co-chair Riad Darar has called on the Syrian Democratic Forces to join the work of the Constitutional Committee and find a political solution writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Alexei Navalny returned to Russia, knowing what he would face when he arrived, and yet, none of the Syrian opposition leaders have dared to return to Damascus writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
The Syrian opposition is fracturing, amid reports that a new political body will be formed reports North Press.
A circulated memorandum has revealed that Saudi Arabia has suspended the work of the employees of the Syrian Negotiations Committee, claiming that no meetings are being held reports Alsouria Net.
Negotiations between the regime and the Syrian Democratic Forces have fallen apart, although a military confrontation is not anticipated reports Baladi News.
Donald Trump will leave office today, but what has he left behind in and Syria and what will challenges will his predecessor face?
There is a desire by the Syrian Democratic Council to create a census between parties and work towards a political solution reports North Press.
Israel has confirmed a meeting that is suspected to have taken place between a delegation and the Syrian government, regarding the removal of Iran reports North Press.
Sergey Lavrov has said the Russia will not engage militarily with the US in Syria, but asks them to not to engage with the Syrian State writes Al-Masdar.
Dr. Zaher Sahloul and Maysoon Almisri were awarded The Gandhi Peace Award for their work to help civilians in Syria and their peace building efforts.
The Syrian Negotiations Commission have had limited success at their most recent meeting, with opposing factions failing to agree on appointments writes Al-Modon.
Seven Russian armored vehicles and dozens of soldiers have deployed in the town of Malikiyah in Syria’s northeastern-most region, used by the anti-ISIS international coalition and US force reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
Firas Tlass has posted on Facebook that Russia is pressuring Bashar al-Assad to make changes to the constitution, in order to secure international recognition reports Baladi News.
With Russian approval, President Assad has been allowed to run in Syria’s next election, but he could be made to make changes to the constitution writes Annahar.
lham Ahmed has blamed Moscow for the actions of the regime in reconciliation area, while hailing the recent visits of European delegations reports North Press.
The recent attack by the Islamic State, which left dozens of regime soldiers dead, has shown the strength of the Islamic State and reaffirmed the need to confront them militarily writes Syria TV.
Sergey Lavrov and Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani held a meeting to discuss issues faced by the region and efforts to secure stability writes Anadolu Agency.
During a meeting between Mikdad and Lavrov, the new Foreign Minister insisted that Assad must remain in power and that he has no intention of leaving office reports Annahar.
Russia gives aid to needy families in Damascus, militant headquarters explode in Aleppo, and Austrian delegation meets with Autonomous Administration. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Faisal Mikdad reportedly delivered two messages to Russia, stating that a conclusion to the situation in Idleb was desired and that Assad was here to stay writes Alsouria Net.
Bouthaina Shaaban has said that Iran and Hezbollah will not leave Syria and the US has no place making such a suggestion writes Al-Masdar.
Faisal Mikdad has held a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and discussed the situation in Syria and future relations writes SANA.
The Syrian presidential election is due to take place next year, but the issue of who will run and how refugees will be able to vote has become a contentious issue writes Al-Modon.
In the final weeks of the Trump administration, Ayn Issa could be facing an attack by Turkish forces, as Russia calls on the SDF to allow the regime to move back into the city writes Baladi News.
Parties involved in the Syria crisis are making diplomatic efforts to secure political gains, before the Biden administration take control in Washington writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The northern province of Idleb is supposed to be controlled by a ceasefire agreement between Russia and Turkey, but frequent infringements spread fear and chaos reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
As the latest round of talks in Geneva get underway, the UN Special Envoy for Syria has called for progress to be made during this session reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Speaking at the UN Security Council, Russia has condemned the recent visit of Mike Pompeo to the occupied Syrian Golan, describing it as a provocation writes Al-Watan.
Following the death of Walid al-Muallem, Iran and Russia are waiting to see who will be his replacement and leading diplomatic efforts writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The refugee conference held in Damascus has been met with scorn and derision by those opposed to the Assad regime, and other International powers have been less than receptive.
Following the election of Joe Biden, the US has a steep hill to climb in the Middle East, but steps are available to them if they want to take a leading role in the region writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Russia has expressed its desire to see the Constitutional Committee meet by the end of November, following recent delays writes Al-Watan.
It is not known who Assad is supporting in the US election, but it is believed that he will be taking a keen interest in the results writes Al-Modon.
Russia and Syria have planned for a conference in Damascus regarding refugees, but the US is insistent that European and Arab countries do not take part writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The Constitutional Committee has had little success since it was formed, and Geir Pedersen is now under pressure to announce its failure reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
The former US Ambassador to Syria has said that if Joe Biden wins the election on November 3rd, then US policy in Syria is unlikely to change much writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Russia is continuing its assault on towns and villages in Idleb, with civilians being hit by artillery shelling reports Nadaa Syria.
Permanent Representatives of Syria and Russia at the UN have lashed out at the actions of Western states and accused them of protected terrorists in Syria writes SANA.
A training camp for the National Liberation Front in Idleb has been hit by Russian airstrikes, killing over 30 fighters and wounding at least 30 more writes Baladi News.
In the face of continued attacks by Turkish-backed forces, the Autonomous Administration has called on Russia and the US to pressure Turkey to stop writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Meeting have been held in both Moscow and Tehran, to discuss a variety of different issues, including the situation in Idleb reports Alsouria Net.
Russia has repatriated children who had been living in the al-Hol camp, Israel says it has no plans to assassinate Hassan Nasrallah, the SDF arrests four ISIS members, the Syrian government sends funds to fire hit region. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Syria and Israel have been on opposite sides for decades, but recent rumours have suggested that secret negotiations are taking place between the two countries writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Over 3,000 violations of the ceasefire in northwestern Syria have been recorded, as involved countries are urged to end the violence and secure the return of resident reports Zaman Al-Wasl.
The northwestern province of Idleb has been hit by Russian airstrikes, despite the area being classified as a de-escalation area reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Opposition factions have struck back at the regime, targeting sites used by them on the Kafr Nabl axis and killing seven reports Nadaa Syria.
Turkey has accused the Syrian Arab Army of being behind recent protests that occurred in the vicinity of Turkish observation points reports Al-Masdar.
Nasr al-Harir has called for Russia to cut ties with Assad, claiming it to be unnecessary and not in service of the Syrian people reports Nadaa Syria.
Sergey Lavrov has warned the US against perusing plans for the formation of an autonomous Kurdish entity with quasi-state powers reports Nadaa Syria.
As Russia marks five years in Syria, calls are growing for them to be denied a seat on the UN’s Human Rights Council reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Fresh military action could be taken by Turkey if promises to move the SDF from Turkish borders are not kept by Russia and the US reports Baladi News.
After suffering from heavy losses, more Syrian fighters are being sent to Azerbaijan to fight against Armenia writes Al-Masdar.
According to a report out of Israel, Russia is searching for an alternative to Assad and hoping to hold a referendum on a new constitution reports Baladi News.
A recent trip to Damascus by Sergey Lavrov has heightened speculation that Russia is looking for a political solution in Syria, which would allow them to reap rewards writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
People’s Assembly member Safwan Qurabi believes that time is running out in Idleb and the Syrian army will soon move in a take the rebel held area writes Al-Watan.
The Syrian opposition has been split by the recent appointment of independent figures, with accusations that some are working with Russia directions writes Zaman Al-Wasl.
After years of conflict, there are hopes for a solution that will bring peace to the troubled country, but the desires of involved countries do differ writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Following recent altercations, Russia and the US have reinforced their numbers in northeastern Syria, to secure their positions and prevent further clashes writes Baladi News.
The ceasefire in Idleb has been repeatedly violated by the regime and Russia, preventing the return of many families to their homes and killing a number of civilians reports Nadaa Syria.
Turkish and Russian officials have met to discuss the Turkish presence in the province of Idleb and options to scale back their observation posts writes Al-Masdar.
While Russia is looking to secure a political settlement and economic recovery for Syria, Assad is reaching out to European and Gulf states for relations writes SY 24.
The Syrian Democratic Council has responded positively following a meeting in Moscow and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding reports North Press.
The Syrian Democratic Council has said that the regime is refusing to enter talks with them, despite a recent understanding between them and the People’s Will Party reports Shaam News.
A Russian officer has died in a Moscow military hospital, following an attack that struck a convoy travelling through Deir ez-Zor reports Al-Masdar.
Mohammad Makhlouf has died of coronavirus in Damascus, following a long career of providing support to the Assad family writes Alsouria Net.
Gulfsands Petroleum has expressed concerns about the recent deal between the US and the Kurds and their options for drilling in the northeastern region writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
While many expected the Russians to put more pressure on the regime, they appear to largely support the latter’s political choices, political commentator Akil Hussein says
The Syrian government wants to hold presidential elections next irrespective of the outcomes of the discussions over a new constitution, Alsouria says
The Russians want to push Damascus to make some concessions ahead of the presidential elections next year, Asharq Al-Awsat says
The agreements include a contract for a Russian company to conduct offshore exploration, Al-Masdar says
Sergey Lavrov has hailed Russian-Turkish cooperation on the M4 highway and in Syria on general, the Anadolu news agency reports
The attack occurred near the M4 while the soldiers were having lunch at a local restaurant, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Everyone clings to the talks for strategic, tactical, or personal considerations, Asharq al-Awsat says
The joint manoeuvres between Russian and Turkish forces have led to talks of a possible deeper cooperation between the two parties, Baladi News says
Pedersen and Lavrov meet in Moscow as the Russians also talk to Turkey over the situation in Syria, state news agency SANA reports
The head of the Syrian Democratic Council has announced the planned signing of a memorandum of understanding with the People Will Party reports Basnews.
The US is working to put together a deal that would recognise the region east of the Euphrates and allow administration reports Basnews.
Russian and US patrols have collided in Syria, amid a rise in tension between the two countries writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Russia has been granted a parcel of land and marine space by the Syrian state, but will be responsible for building and infrastructure writes Sputnik
A dangerous confrontation is brewing, between the tribes of northeastern Syria and the Syrian Democratic Forces writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The new observation post, which lies on Turkey’s southern border, has been constructed after a number of clashes between the regime and Turkey-backed groups writes Zaman Al-Wasl.
A regime advance was halted by opposition forces, with casualties reported on both sides following the clashes writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Russia has rejected claims made by former US National Security Adviser John Bolton, regarding the relationship between Iran and Russia in Syria writes Al-Masdar.
Following the recent elections for the People’s Assembly, Russia has refrained from heaping praise on the process, suggesting they were unhappy with Iranian influence writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Russia chases down US soldiers in Hassakeh, details revealed about Syrian fighters in Libya, tensions between the US and Russia rise. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
On a telephone call, presidents Putin and Rouhani have promised to continue cooperating in Syria and supporting each other in other fields writes SANA.
Following an explosion that hit a joint patrol in Idleb, Russia has hit back, bombing the town of of Ariha in northern Idleb reports Zaman Al-Wasl.
Syria’s ambassador in Russia has issued a scathing criticism of the Caesar Act and said that Russia will fight the sanctions and stand with Syria writes Al-Watan.
The Security Council had voted down a Russian bid to abolish the Bab al-Salam crossing and put a six month time limit on the Bab al-Hawa crossing reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Russia has presented a new draft resolution, which would see a humanitarian corridor opened for six months, after the previous resolution was vetoed writes SANA.
A Russian cargo ship has been spotted moving into the Mediterranean Sea, and is believed to be carrying tanks and other military vehicles reports Al-Masdar.
Adham al-Kurd has said that the settlement agreements made with Russian support have not help the south and have only fuelled further violence writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
The National Front for Liberation has rejected rumours that it has joined by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, but stressed that they are ready for combat writes Alsouria Net.
Recent meetings held by Russia have caused concern with the regime, which has threatened Syrians involved with the process reports Al-Modon.
After clashes between the two groups Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham and the Fathbutou Operations Room have agreed to not set up more checkpoints writes Alsouria Net.
The Caesar Act has imposed further harsh sanctions on Syria that hope to change the behaviour of the Syrian regime writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The Syrian National Assembly has declared that it is now part of the Syrian National Council and work to create political solutions in Syria reports Hawar News.
The guarantor nations of the Astana talks have agreed to meet virtually, to discuss issues related to Syria and will meet in-person at a later date writes Alsouria Net.
A Russian military vehicle was hit by an explosive device, as it patrolled along the M4 highway, as per the deal with Turkey reports Al-Masdar.
Thousands of Syrian rely on the wheat harvest, but this has been severely affected by the conflict and factions are now rushing to secure what they can reports Asharq al-Awsat.
Moscow is reportedly disgruntled with the Syrian government and their decision to allow Iranian forces near Damascus airport, despite previous promises writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The battle of influence between Russia and Iran is continuing with a meeting of notable from the coast reports The Levant.
Individuals in Daraa, wanted by the regime, have been offered the chance to join the Fourth Division in exchange for clemency writes Alsouria Net.
Sakhi Ghulami, who fought on behalf of Iran in Syria, has died while having surgery in Iran’s Mashhad Province reports Baladi News.
The suffering of Syria has reached unimaginable limits, with the country physically destroyed, a huge loss of life and a crippled economy writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
A recent report in a Saudi newspaper has divided the opposition and those involved with the regime defector “Caeser” writes Al-Modon.
Russia has helped Assad secure a victory in Syria and now seeks to bring the fighting to an end and capitalise on that victory writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Putin has named Aleksandr Yefimov as a special representative for Syria, taking control away from the defense ministry and putting it back in the hands of the Kremlin reports Alsouria Net.
Dr. Bashar al-Jaafari has once again lambasted foreign powers for occupying Syrian land and called for the support of terrorist organisations to end writes SANA.
The value of the Syrian pound against the US dollar continues to fall, with some attributing the latest drop to the Makhlouf-Assad dispute writes Baladi News.
Following an attack that left at least 30 regime soldiers dead, heavy clashes have occurred in the al-Ghab Plain region, despite the existence of a ceasefire reports Al-Masdar.
Resentment of a perceived Russian control over Syria, has lead to criticism from officials in the regime government reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
Majd al-Jadaan has said that President Assad’s days in power are numbered and that he can no longer maintain his hold on power in Syria reports Aram Media.
Khaled al-Aboud threatened to attack Russian forces in Syria and lashed out at them for suggesting that they might abandon Assad writes Baladi News.
Following an attack by opposition forces, the Syrian army has hit back, targeting points belonging to the jihadist rebels reports Al-Masdar.
A source in Moscow has hit back at recent reports in Russian media about a fracture in Syrian-Russian relations, insisting that Syria has the full support of Russia writes Al-Watan.
US Ambassador James Jeffrey has discussed the relationship between Syria and Russia and the future of America’s involvement in Syria writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
In retaliation to a missile attack that hit Turkish tanks, Turkey has conducted a drone strike against Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, killing some of their fighters reports Zaman Al-Wasl.
A rift has grown between wife of the president, Asmaa al-Assad, and the Makhlouf family, who are strong financial backers of the regime reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
After shooting down an Israeli drone, Iran secured an advanced missile and have now copied and reproduced it for their own use reports Al-Masdar.
While the ceasefire in Idleb continues to hold, the al-Nusra Front have been bolstering their ranks and creating three new military brigade reports Al-Watan.
Despite a ceasefire being agreed by all parties, both sides have been sending large military reinforcements to Idleb, raising speculation about a possible offensive reports Al-Masdar.
With ceasefire in place, a number of families have returned to their homes in the western countryside of Idleb, but they fear an outbreak of the coronavirus reports Brocar Press.
After years of war and with a shattered healthcare system, Syria is particularly vunerable to an outbreak of the coronavirus writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Supportive words from the UAE, coronavirus fears rise, regime attack thwarted in Idleb province, sophisticated anti-air weapons for the opposition and a Syrian man dies in Italy. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Since a ceasefire was agreed between Russia and Turkey, two sides have been bolstering their positions in Idleb and Aleppo, with more fortifications and more troops writes Zaman Al-Wasl.
Iran has established a new command centre and moved additional troops and equipment into Aleppo province, while the ceasefire in the region holds writes Zaman Al-Wasl.
Since Russia began its involvement in Syria, Sergey Shoygu has made many trips and has served as an important point of contact between Assad and Putin writes Alsouria Net.
Turkey has promised to ensure the safety of the M4 highway and the expansion of the route that is patrolled by Russian and Turkish forces reports Sputnik.
The Syrian regime’s forces launched an attack on the villages of al-Ftira and Sfuhon, but were stopped by Turkish backed forces, who destroyed a tank reports Zaman Al-Wasl.
The Syrian Arab Army has amassed a large force in southwestern Idleb, fuelling expectations that they will attempt to take Jisr al-Shughour reports Al-Masdar.
Russian and Turkish joint patrols halted, insistence of no presence of coronavirus, a fresh US convoy enters Syria and dissidents urge further action by the US. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
There have been conflicting reports about the possibility of another round of talks for the small committee at the Constitutional Committee in Geneva writes Enab Baladi.
After reaching a ceasefire deal with Russia, Erdogan has suggested that the oil fields in Deir ez-Zor should be managed by Putin writes Al-Modon.
Just days after an agreement was reached, the ceasefire was broken when the Syrian regime fired artillery shells in the direction of a Turkish observation post reports Zaman Al-Wasl.
A ceasefire agreed between Russia and Turkey has not given met all of the Turkish demands, who have now sent a large number of heavy reinforcements into northern Syria writes Zaman Al Wasl.
Russia is determined to ensure that Assad reclaims all Syrian territory, but must now negotiate with Turkey to see those plans come to fruition reports Syria TV.
Bombs continue to fall on civilians in Idleb province, as Putin and Erdogan meet and call for the violence to decrease writes Jesr.
President Vladimir Putin has said that talks with Turkey are needed to calm the situation in Idleb and to prevent further unnecessary lost of life writes SANA.
The presidents of Turkey and Russia are meeting to discuss the situation in Idleb and to try and find a solution that can reduce the violence reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
A new report has said that even when the fighting is concluded, large parts of northern Syria will still not be habitable for civilians reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Russia announced that it had deployed military police in Saraqeb, although the claim was questioned by many, and seen as a ploy to create a balance with Turkey writes Nadaa Syria.
Russian airstrikes have struck the village of al-Fuaa in northern Idleb and the town of Binnish, killing a number of civilians reports Zaman Al Wasl.
A Turkish drone strike killed 19 regime troops on Sunday, marking a further escalation in violence between Turkey and the regime writes Zaman al-Wasl.
The Russian Foreign Minister has lambasted the United State for considering a deal with terrorists present in northern Syria writes Al-Masdar.
Russian airstrikes have hit and destroyed a number of vehicles belonging to Turkish-back militants reports Al-Masdar.
The Wagner group has been tempting Syrians to fight for them in Libya, with promises of settlements and large salaries writes Zaman Al Wasl.
The Syrian government must rid itself of the Turkish presence, before it moves on to secure the rest of Idleb writes Al-Watan.
America’s national security adviser has said Washington does not intend to involve itself in the increasing violence between Turkey and the Syrian regime writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Turkey has discussed a recent meeting in Moscow, between the heads to the Turkish and Syrian intelligence heads, with factions of the National Liberation Front writes Nadaa Syria.
Turkey claims to have destroyed three tanks and two cannons as well as killing a number of fighters reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
The Turkish army has launched an attack against regime outpost near the town of Saraqeb, killing dozens reports Zaman Al Wasl.
As the regime advances in Idleb, Turkey has sent reinforcements to the city of Saraqib, on the intersection of the M4 and M5 international highways reports Enab Baladi.
Russia has been instrumental in Syria and the actions have shown them to be a powerful force, but Asharq Al-Awsat asks if that will continue.
A fighter who has residency in Germany was killed in Idleb fighting for Liwa al-Quds, when the opposition launched an ambush on Tel Msaitef Zaman Al Wasl.
Recent diplomatic activities in New York between Syria and Saudi Arabia have led people to expect a resumption of relations writes Al-Watan.
Hope of reaching a solution were dashed when the Turkish Defense Minister ended meetings with Ali Mamlouk reports Brocar Press.
Putin’s recent trip to Damascus has highlighted the strain in the relationship between the two presidents and the differing views of the two men writes Al-Modon.
The heads of Turkish and Syrian intelligence have held a meeting to discuss the situation in Idleb and Turkish actions in northern Syria.
As violence breaks out following a kidnapping, Russia has moved into Daraa province to aid with negotiations and restore control writes Enab Baladi.
After recent regime advances, oppositions forces have hit back and secured three villages in the eastern countryside of Idleb writes Zaman Al Wasl.
Following the killing of Qassem Soleimani, questions are now being asked about what it means for Iran in Syria reports Asharq al-Awsat.
In an effort to appear less sectarian, the opposition is looking to name Alawite opposition member Nibras al-Fadel as the head of the opposition delegation to the Constitutional Committee writes Jisr.
Recent events in Iraq have revealed the weakness of the American position in the Middle East and their desperate attempts to strengthen their hand writes Al-Watan.
Russia has said that if their resolution on transferring humanitarian aid to Syria is rejected, then the political games of other countries will be exposed writes SANA.
China’s Special Envoy for Syria has stressed that a political solution to the crisis in Syria can be found with help from Russia reports SANA.
The US is set to announce a new list of regime funders and supporters who will be sanctioned for their part in oppressing the Syrian people writes Syria TV.
In accordance with the agreement between Turkey and Russia, Assad’s forces had expanded their deployment in the al-Jazira areas and deployed in the northern Hassakeh countryside reports Alsouria Net.
Russian forces have moved into Amuda, in northeastern Syria, reportedly to protect the Kurdish forces in the area from the Turkish army writes Asharq al-Awsat.
A Russian researcher has accused the US of hindering the political process and obstructing the work of the Committee to Discuss to Constitution writes SANA.
Qadri Jamil has said that the delegations from regime and the opposition have demonstrated irresponsible behavior during the second round of the Constitutional Committee writes Enab Baladi.
As the Syrian pound drops to it lowest rate since 1919, Russia is stepping in to to pump foreign currency into the Damascus and Aleppo markets writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Israeli airstrikes have hit a number of targets across the country, causing damage to buildings, injuring some and causing a number of fatalities.
Russian airstrikes hit Idleb, Turkey expels refugees, regime forces deploy on the border, Russia takes control of US airbase and the UN affirms Syrian rights to the Golan Heights. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
SDF commander Mazloum Abadi has criticised Russia and the US for not doing enough to prevent Turkish attacks reports Enab Baladi.
The regime’s forces used heavy aerial and ground bombardments, but were unable to unseat the rebels, losing a number of fighters in the process writes Zaman Al Wasl,
Mazloum Abdi has expressed his distrust of both Russia and the Syrian regime, but has agreed to continue to search for peace writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
In a recent interview, Assad has spoken about the role of Tehran and Moscow as well as the possible outcomes of the constitutional committee and the status of the Kurds writes Al-Modon.
The regime’s forces have continued their attacks on rebels the de-escalation zone, but their attempts have been thwarted reports Zaman Al Wasl.
Mazlum Abdi expressed his thanks to President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Federation for defusing the war in the region and sparing civilians the scourge of war writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
In accordance with the Turkish-Russian agreement, Russia has started to patrol the border region as the SDF withdraws to the agreed upon distance writes Alsouria Net.
Following their withdrawal from the northeast, Syria has told the US to also leave the al-Tanf area writes SANA.
A new report on the developments in northern Syria has said that the US and Russia orchestrated events to their benefit and that Iran was the biggest loser writes Alsouria Net.
Turkey’s actions in northern Syria have given him plenty of diplomatic leverage and it will allow him to implement his plans for demographic change writes Brocar Press.
On a recent visit to the frontlines in Idleb, President Bashar al-Assad has spoken out against the recent Turkish aggression and called out Erdogan reports Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Despite a ceasefire being imposed in the area, Russia is still conducting airstrikes in the northern province of Idleb reports Zaman Al Wasl.
Russia is set to hold meetings with Turkey to discuss the removal of the Syrian Kurdish People’s Protection Units from Manbij and Kobani writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Saudi Arabia has spoken out against the Turkish aggression in northeastern Syria, urging parties to find a political solution reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
While both Russia and Turkey have intervened militarily in Syria, they have done so in different manners, which could lead to very different outcomes writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The Russian air force used cluster bombs to hit the village of al-Bara south of Idleb city, killing a mother and her child reports Zaman Al Wasl.
As Turkey moves into northern Syria, the Syrian Democratic Forces are considering their options, with an alliance with the Assad regime at the top of the list writes Alsouria Net.
The National Defense Militia are seeking to take advantage of the Turkish threat to the eastern Euphrates, but the Assad government and the Russians are standing in their way reports Deir Ezzor 24.
As the Turkey prepares to move on northern Syria, the regime has yet to make an official statement on the developments reports Brocar Press.
The formation of the National Front for Liberation changed the situation on the ground in northern Syria, but who is leading them. Enab Baladi explains.
Russia has stepped in to prevent the regime from blocking the formation of the constitutional committee and protect its work reports Brocar Press.
The long planned constitutional committee is expected to be announced at the next meeting of the Astana guarantor countries reports Brocar Press.
Russia and the regime resume airstrikes in Idleb, book fair opens in Damascus, displaced people leave a camp in Hassakeh and the UN to investigate hospital attacks. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
According to a western diplomat, the crisis in Syria will continue if Bashar al-Assad decides to run for president again writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The brutal assult on Idleb by regime forces has pushed many families into the camps for the displaced, where the quality of life is very low reports Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Turkey and Russia are slowly working towards a solution for Idleb, while also trying to ensure that they both get what they want writes Al-Arab.
The head of the High Negotiations Committee has said that effort for a constitutional committee are ongoing and could be announced before Sept. 20, 2019 writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The US Defense Department said the attack targeted leaders of Al-Qaeda north of Idlib in Syria. It did not say what kind of weapon was used or give further details reports Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Bashar al-Assad has ordered for an investigation into the business practices of his supporter Rami Makhlouf and companies owned by him writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The UN Special Envoy to Syria has announced that the formation of the constitutional committee is close to being completed reports Alsouria Net.
At a meeting in Moscow, Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan discussed international developments and attended the International Aviation and Space Salon report Anadolu News Agency.
Following the capture of Khan Sheikhoun by regime forces, Turkey is questioning the future of its observation posts in Idleb reports Etihad Press.
Israeli warplanes are pursuing Iranian targets from Syria and into Iraq, targeting Iranian weapons and missile warehouses reports Asharq al-Awsat.
For the first time the Russian Foreign Minister has confirmed the presence of Russia troops in the battle for the province of Idleb reports Alsouria Net.
A Kurdish academic has put forward a new proposal to bring together the Syrian-Kurds and the regime and secure the rights of the Kurds writes Basnews.
The Syrian Kurdish National Council is seeking to secure a bigger role in the administration of the proposed safe zone in northern Syria reports Bas News.
At the 2019 International Army Games, Syria secured 23rd place out of the 39 competing countries, and secured ninth in the Tank Biathlon writes SANA.
Oleg Melnikov is the head of the Russian “Alternativa” rights movement and travelled to Idleb to search for two children from Kazakhstan and take them home writes Alsouria Net.
After months of delays, Russia believes that the much anticipated constitutional committee is expected to meet for the first time in Geneva next month writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The United States is continuing to be a disrupting force in Syria, refusing to engage in any solution to the crisis, while also offering no alternatives writes Al-Arab.
Pilots from the regime have received training in Russia on the Yak-130 twin seat trainer jet, which is used as a light attack and reconnaissance jet writes Zaman Al Wasl.
Delegations from Syria, Iran and Russia have arrived at the latest round of Astana talks to try and bring an end to the violence in Syria writes SANA.
The image of young children in the aftermath of an airstrike on Ariha in Idleb province has brought the horrors of the regime assault back to the forefronts of people’s mind writes Robert Ford for Asharq Al-Awsat.
The residents of the al-Rukban camp have been enduring a bitter siege and have suffered from the lack of food and medical supplies writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Since taking control of the areas south of Damascus, the regime has arrested hundreds of people who agreed to reconciliation deals reports Zaman Al Wasl.
The recent changes to the intelligence agencies has shaken up the power structures in Syria and left people wondering if Russia is trying to push Assad out writes Alsouria Net.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is accusing the U.S. and other western countries of protecting the Nusra Front, writes state news agency SANA
A lack of staff in Syrian consulates in foreign countries is making it more difficult for Syrians living abroad to secure their rights reports Al-Watan.
Iranian militias and Hezbollah have been transferred north, from the south, to bolster the fronts for an expected upsurge in the violence reports Etihad Press.
Since its intervention, Moscow’s priorities have shifted and it is now looking to form relationships with the US and Israel writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
At an upcoming meeting in Jerusalem, the US is expected to offer to lift sanctions imposed on Syria, if they ensure the removal of Iranian forces from Syrian lands reports Baladi News.
Russia is considering handing control of the conflict in Hama over to Maher al-Assad, following a string of failures in the region, although his close ties to Iran are of concern writes Baladi News.
President Assad and the visiting Russian delegation discussed the ongoing battle against terrorism and the increasing pressure exerted by some Western countries reports SANA.
Iran is being pushed from all side when it comes to its presence in Syria, while also participating in Idlib’s battles either from the Western Aleppo countryside or northern Hama’s gateways writes Asharq al-Awsat.
Continued airstrikes in northwestern Syria, Turkey criticizes Russian inaction, Turkish council bans refugees from beach and Syrian journalists call for an end to sanctions. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Assad’s deadly campaign against civilians in Idleb looks set to continue as a peace agreement brokered on Wednesday was breached just hours later reports Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has called on Turkey to uphold its side of the Sochi agreement and tackle the terrorist organizations present in Idleb writes SANA.
A planned takeover of the Banyas port by Iran, has stoked concern and competition with Russia, who see the growing Iranian influence as a problem writes Ayyam al-Suria.
At a meeting in Moscow, Syria and Russia have highlighted the need for deep cooperation to confront the sanctions imposed on Syria report The Syria Times.
In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, the head of the Syrian Negotiations Commission said that Russia is focused on finding an alternative solution in Syria.
The United States has developed a new strategy that aims to curb the influence of Iran in Syria, but makes little mention of political resolutions to the crisis writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The Russian President’s Special Envoy for Syria and the British Prime Minister’s International Affairs Adviser discussed issues affecting the Middle East and Syria reports SANA.
The 12th round of Astana talks failed to create the required agreements, which Syria and Russia blame of Turkey’s unwillingness to uphold its commitments writes Al-Watan.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the ongoing operation and the increase in tensions could jeopardize the formation of a Constitutional Committee writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The Syrian National Coalition has warned that if the assault on Idleb continues, it could lead to a humanitarian tragedy and a fresh wave of refugees towards Europe.
The Syrian Democratic Council has said that it is willing to militarily confront Damascus and has stood by their recent meeting of Syrian tribes reports Al-Watan.
Russia blocks a report on Idleb at UN, Haftar militias to return refugees, regime officers reported killed and France insists that there mustn’t be another Aleppo. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
As the regime continues its assault on Idleb, questions are being asked about what happens next and how Turkey and the US will come into play writes the Omran Center for Strategic Studies.
As the land and air assault on the province of Idleb continues, discussions in the background are still trying to secure political advantages writes Alsouria Net.
During a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, Sergey Lavrov reiterated that the terrorists in Idleb must be eliminated reports SANA.
The failure of the recent Astana talks have increased tensions between Russia and Turkey and created more confusion about what could happen in Idleb writes Ana Press.
Recent military developments in Idleb have highlighted the differences between Turkey and Russia and increased speculation about a possible offensive on the province reports Alsouria Net.
Frustration with Russia and Iran is growing in Syria, with many unhappy about the way that the country is viewed writes Al-Watan.
The return of the remains of an Israeli soldiers and the following release of two Syrian, one of whom is a known criminal and spy is yet another embarrassment for the regime writes Zaman Al Wasl.
According to Brigadier General Ahmed al-Rihal, the latest round of Astana achieved little but to highlight the differences between Russia and Turkey writes Ana Press.
Israel released two Syrian prisoners, after it received the remains of an Israeli soldier killed in the first Lebanon war, although they deny that it was part of a deal writes Al-Quds Al-Araby.
Residents of the al-Rukban camp are facing a terrible humanitarian crisis, prompting some to leave to regime controlled areas, which might not be safe reports Alsouria Net.
The head of the Syrian Negotiations Committee, Nasr al-Hariri, has said the the formation of the constitutional committee was almost complete writes Alsouria Net.
The port will be used by the Russians for transportation and economic purposes, while continuing to serve as a base for their warships reports Alsouria Net.
Two delegations from Russia and one Iran have visited Syria to discuss a number of different issues ahead of the next round of Astana talks writes Alsouria Net.
Israeli airstrikes on Hama’s countryside, regime airstrikes in Idleb, Turkish reinforcements sent to the border and Leishmaniasis disease spreads across Raqqa. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The Syrian opposition has said that meetings between Russia and Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham point to a lack of willingness to attack Idleb writes Al-Quds Al-Araby.
Women and children were wounded when Russian rockets, fired from warships in the Mediterranean, hit targets in Idleb province reports Hurriya Press.
The remains of Zachary Baumel, who was killed in 1982, were handed over by Russian President, Vladimir Putin, to Israeli President, Benjamin Netanyahu reports Alsouria Net.
Iran is set to take control of the facility in the fall and will be used to restores Iran’s presence in the Mediterranean reports Asharq al-Awsat.
Russia is keen facilitate the return of Syrian refugees living in Lebanon, but many in the international community do not believe that the conditions for return are right reports Al-Jumhurriyah.
The location of the mass grave containing the remains of regime soldiers was revealed, when the regime agreed to free a number of prisoners reports Zaman Al Wasl.
Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, who have a firm control over Idleb province, clashed with Islamic State militants, resulting in the death of one child reports Zaman Al Wasl.
As the deescalation agreement that governs Idleb continues to crumble, active parties are exploring a potential assault on the region and the implications that it could have writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Reports of the possibility that Iran could take control of the port of Lattakia have ramped up tensions between them and Russia, as the two countries jostle for influence in a post war Syria writes Ana Press.
The two side spoke of the need for coordination in the fight against terrorism, while tensions between Iran and Russia continue to rise reports Etihad Press.
While Assad has achieved success on the ground, he now faces new battles on the diplomatic stage, which look set to be an insurmountably task writes Anadolu News Agency.
Idleb is supposed to governed by a ceasefire deal that was brokered by Russia and Turkey in September of last year reports Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Despite Bashar al-Assad now being in control of the large majority of the country, his problems are far from over writes Alsouria Net.
Maher al-Assad has favoured Iran, a position that has conflicted with his brother’s pro-Russian agenda writes Strategy Watch.
In December of last year, US President Donald Trump said that he would pull out all 2,000 US troops from Syria, but now appears to be changing his mind writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
France has reportedly reached out to Moscow to break the impasse of the constitutional committee and speed up the process of elections in Syria writes Asharq al-Awsat.
With the recent publication of a photo of Assad at the Hemeimeem base, Russia is trying to show who is the lesser partner in their relationship writes Alsouria Net.
Idleb is supposed to be governed by an agreement that stops violence between opposition groups and the government, but attacks have continued writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Russia embarrasses President Assad, the United Arab Emirates send financial support to Syria, the US suspends citizenship of ISIS women and Russia accuses the US of blocking aid. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Suhail al-Hassan, who is known as ‘The Tiger’, has proven himself to be an effective leader and well respected among the men who serve him reports Alsouria Net.
The President’s Political and Media Adviser praised Russia and China for their support at the UN and insisted that the issue of the constitution was a purely sovereign matter writes SANA.
Jeremy Hunt, the UK foreign secretary, said that Assad is likely to remain in his position, adding that the UK has “no plans” to reopen diplomatic relations with Syria reports Arab News.
An 11-year-old Syrian found dead, SDF continue to close in on ISIS, Iranian plans for missile productions and Russian artillery kills six. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The US President announced the withdrawal of US forces, however little progress has been made, while the humanitarian situation in al-Rukban continues to deteriorate writes SANA.
The Syrian army witnessed mass defections when the conflict in the country broke out, but as the regime has secured the upper hand, they have offered pardons to some writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The upcoming tripartite meeting, which will be held in Sochi, will discuss the constitution committee, but there are concerns that progress cannot be achieved writes Al-Modon.
Turkey has announced that the constitutional committee will feature players from the regime, the opposition and civil society and will bring together the Geneva, Astana and Sochi processes reports Horriya Press.
The former Saudi intelligence chief claimed that Obama was to blame for allowing Russia and Iran to secure a foothold in Syria reports Hashtag Syria.
Turkey is determined to establish a safe zone in northern Syria, but it has not ruled out cooperation with other countries reports Al-Modon.
Maher al-Assad, brother of the regime’s president, is being marginalized, by the Russians, as Suhail al-Hassan achieves prominence reports Ana Press.
Following talks between the Kurds and Russia, Kurdish leader Elham Ahmad now wants the dialogue to lead to a peaceful political solution writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The plane, which belongs to an Iranian airline, has been favoured by fighters travelling to Syria to support the regime writes Alsouria Net.
It is hoped that tripartite meetings between the concerned parties will be able to achieve an understanding for the proposed Turkish buffer zone in northern Syria reports Al-Sharq Al-Awsat.
The Russia political party United Russia, which President Putin is a part of, discussed efforts to increase economic and political relations reports SANA.
As the conflict in Syria looks to be heading into the final act, regional powers are seeking to understand what the Syria of the future holds for them and how they can use Assad writes Al-Modon.
Following the announced withdrawal of US forces from Syria, other parties are scrambling to come up a strategy writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Both Russia and Iran have said that they want to seek a political solution in Syria, in line with the Astana process writes SANA.
Donald Trump’s haphazard foreign policy decisions show a lack of knowledge of regional dynamics and bring no benefit to the United States, writes Emile Nakhleh.
Chemical weapon warnings, mounting US-coalition casualties, Kurdish-regime deals and gains by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Following a meeting in Moscow, Kurdish officials have presented Russian and Syrian officials with a roadmap for cooperation reports Al-Hal.
For both pro-regime and pro-opposition commentators, the announced withdrawal by the US is a chance and lost opportunity writes Syrian Snack (independent website)
With the news of a US withdrawal from Syria, Russia believes that the possibility of a political process is now strong reports SANA.
The formation of the Consitutional Committee has long been a sticking point between the US and Russia writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The visit of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, marks the first time that an Arab leader has visited Syria since the war began in 2011 writes Anadolu News Agency.
While Turkey prepares for a possible assault on the eastern banks of the Euphrates, Russia and the regime are becoming impatient about the status of Idleb writes Al-Modon.
Amjad al-Maleh was arrested in December 2017 and is expected to be executed in the next two weeks reports Zaman Al Wasl.
Syrian regime media denied an attack near Damascus airport after reports that explosions were heard in the area reports Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Ahrar al-Sham have accused Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham of looting public properties writes Zaman Al Wasl.
The Russian Foreign Minister has said that the US is refusing to restore infrastructure some territories reports Asharq al-Awsat.
Around the world, Syrian students conducted sit-ins to protest against the economic sanctions imposed on Syria reports SANA.
Following a vote by member states, the OPCW will now be able to investigate chemical attacks and attribute responsibility reports Hurriya Press.
Syria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Bashar al-Jaafari, has warned other countries not to interfere with Syrian internal affairs reports SANA.
Since the outbreak of war, the Druze in Syria have remained neutral, instead choosing to join local militias protecting their region writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Despite the buffer zone agreement, there have been a number of casualties on both sides, following clashes in the northern Hama countryside and Idleb province reports Zaman Al Wasl.
Elements of the Syrian Negotiations Committee have been angered by tweets sent by Nasr al-Hariri, which did not specifically condemn al-Nusra Front reports Ana Press.
After much confusion, the United States have announced a clear strategy on Syria and what they hope to achieve writes Al-Hurra channel.
The Israelis are unhappy with Russia’s supplies of weapons to the Syrian regime and threaten retaliation
A Russian envoy has informed Bashar Al-Assad of the outcomes of the quadrilateral meeting held in Istanbul last week
The US Special Representative on Syria, cited the Russian-Turkish agreement on Idleb and the push to form a constitutional committee as important steps forward reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
The conflict in Syria is a tangled mess of conflicting groups and ideas and the search for a political solution is likely to be long and hard writes Asharq al-Awsat.
Russia has vowed to investigate the incident and the claims that have been made reports SANA.
Ilham Ehmed has denied that negotiations are ongoing and called for a national agreement that brings people together and for a constitutional committee to be formed writes Ana Press.
In documents sent to the UN Secretary-General, Western states have said that they will not provide reconstruction aid until UN-supervised elections are conducted reports Asharq al-Awsat.
Putin said that stopping international terrorism and commencing Syria’s reconstruction will help life the burden from European countries reports SANA.
Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister said that taking heavy weapons from the opposition groups and terrorists will be difficult reports SANA.
The Syrian officers have been told not to use the air defense system, until they have received more training reports Zaman Al Wasl.
As part of the agreement, rebel groups are moving heavy weapons 15 to 20 kilometers from the demilitarized zone, although some points of the agreement have been contentious for both sides writes Etihad Press.
A number of senior officials in the Syrian Air Force have formed a commission, at the request of the Russians, to uncover how a Russian plane was shot down writes Zaman Al Wasl.
Despite recently increased tensions with Russia, Israel has said that it will continue to target Iranian military positions in Syria reports Anadolu Agency.
As part of the 2nd Syrian Media Festival, Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mikdad and advisor Bouthaina Shaaban reiterated the strong relationship with Russia and their commitment to fight terrorism writes Al-Watan.
Russia has promised to bolster Syrian air defenses, after one its planes was accidentally shot down, killing 15 Russian soldiers writes SANA.
Chemical weapons, condolences from Syria, suspected US airstrikes and Russians accusation directed at Israel. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Russia’s Permanent Representative to the UN has accused western countries of refusing to contribute economic and humanitarian aid reports Asharq al-Awsat.
Accusations have been made on all sides after a Russian plane was shot down by Assad’s forces, killing 15 Russian soldiers writes Asharq al-Awsat.
As the war in Syria draws to a close, international players are looking to secure influence in the country’s future writes Al-Watan.
The recent attack on the Mezzeh military airbase reveals the interplay between nations and their influence in the region writes Al-Hayat.
Syrian condemnation of Ukraine assassination, defiance from Faisal Mikdad, fears of a chemical attack and Turkish terrorism classification. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign and Expatriates Minister Walid al-Muallem has reaffirmed Syria’s determination and accused the US of prolonging the war writes SANA.
The UN envoy to Syria, Staffan de Mistura, acknowledged the presence of terrorists in Idleb, while also calling for humanitarian corridors for civilians writes Hurriya Press.
At his meeting with Sergei Lavrov, Walid al-Muallem thanked Russia for their support and expressed the desire to partner with them in the reconstruction process reports SANA.
Walid al-Muallem will meet with Sergei Lavrov before heading to peace talks in Geneva reports Anadolu Agency.
A potential new chemical attack, ISIS hostages, an increased Russian naval presence and Turkish pleas for restraint. Catch up on everything that happened this weekend.
William Roebuck made the statment while visiting a civil council in al-Shadadi in southern Hassakeh province reports Hurriya Press
A report by the Northern Syrian Response Coordinators has said that claims of thousands of civilians leaving Idleb have been greatly exaggerated writes Alsouria Net
While the US has long been critical of the growing influence of Iran in Syria, they have not developed a clear strategy for the country writes Asharq al-Awsat
Lebanon’s Foreign Minister, Gebran Bassil, has said that there are areas in Syria which are safe for refugees to return to writes Hurriya Press
Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that a full scale assault would result in a complete massacre, which should be avoided reports Alsouria Net
The recent decision by the Kurdish Syrian Democratic Council to enter into negotiations with the regime has major implications for the future of Syria and the position of Turkey writes Sada al-Sham
It was hoped that the visit by the Kurdish-Arab Syrian Democratic Council to Damascus would be able to find commonality between to two sides writes Asharq al-Awsat
Moscow contradicted Assad’s pledges to retake the northern Syrian rebel stronghold by force, saying there “can be no question of an operation, of a major assault on Idlib” writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed
The fate of Idleb is of great concern to Turkey, and a careful balancing act is required to keep it from falling into chaos writes Syria TV
While the Russian ambassador to Israel stressed that Iranian forces would not be positioned on the border with the Golan Heights, forcing a them to leave Syria was not possible writes Alsouria
Syria’s Druze community have tried to remain neutral during the Syrian war, but local events could force their hand writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The US were invited to take part in the 10th Astana talks as an observer reports Tishreen
As the regime wraps up operations in the south, questions about the fate of the north are being asked writes Hurriya Press
Russia has proposed a roadmap to return Syrian refugees in coordination with the US, a move welcomed by Beirut writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed
It is hoped that a new constitution will be the start of a lasting political process between all sides reports Ana Press
The army statement claimed the Syrian plane had infiltrated its airspace reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed
Ali Akbar Velayati is not right to say that, if not for Iran, Syria would have fallen writes Al-Watan
All eyes are on Helsinki and the upcoming summit between Trump and Putin writes Asharq al-Awsat
Clashes with ISIS, returning refugees, ceasefire deals and phosphorus attacks. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Jordan closed its borders when the Syrian government started it offensive on southern Syria writes Asharq al-Awsat
The agreement made between the interested parties, has ensured that no-one is losing out during the government’s assault on Darra, apart from the opposition factions writes Al-Hayat
Trump and Putin are due to meet later in the month to discuss Syria’s future reports Asharq al-Awsat
Iranian parliamentarian Behoruz Bonyadi lamented the money spent by Iran in Syria, saying that it should be spent on domestic issues write Alsouria Net
As the regime advances, with the support of its Russian allies, the situation in Daraa looks bleak for the opposition reports SNP
With the Manbij agreement and the possible withdrawal of the Americans, the Kurds start to look at a possible alliance with the Syrian government writes Al-Watan
A plethora of foreign powers have staked an interest in the Syrian conflict and the shape of their influence in the country’s future is starting to become clearer writes Asharq al-Awsat
Russia claims that the lack of on the ground information gathering makes the reports inaccurate writes SANA
Attacks on graveyards, funding for the White Helmets, an assault on Darra and diplomatic relations with Abkhazia. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend
Arrest warrants, ISIS attacks, investment opportunities and a potential amnesty. Catch up on the biggest event in Syria from the weekend
UAE Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Anwar Gargash believes that the conflict will continue and that a political solution must be found writes The National
Israel has agreed not to interfere with military operation on the border, in exchange for a withdrawal of Iranian backed forces writes Enab Baladi
11 rebel groups in Syria recently merged to form the largest military force opposing Assad writes Zaman Al Wasl
Some of the major events in Syria last weekend
The Syrian regime has allocated six billion pounds, but many say that it is not enough writes Souriatna
The presence of Iranian forces on the southern border is a sticking point for the interested parties reports Asharq al-Awsat
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claims that despite a US presence, terrorist groups are present in al-Tanf and al-Rukban writes SANA
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has been working in Syria following the alleged chemical attack in Douma
A report released by The Syrian Network for Human Rights has called on the world to use the upcoming World Cup in Russia to highlight Russian crimes in Syria
Half of the people in the northern rebel province of Idleb have already fled from other parts of Syria reports Al-Araby
Russia was content to act as a bystander, Alsouria Net writes
Mohamed Nadir al-Omari explores the increasingly bellicose rhetoric coming out of Israel
Crash follows the demise of a Russian jet over the Mediterranean on May 3, Asharq al-Awsat reports
An uptick in violence has seen the death of many insurgents over the weekend
Both the United States and Russia appear to be scrambling to save the de-escalation agreement in the south, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Agency’s director-general says the team were told the holdup is down to “pending security issues,” Zaman al-Wasl reports
The jihadist group has taken advantage of regime forces’ inaction by advancing deep into the desert region, according to Enab Baladi
Presidents of Russia, Iran and Turkey issue a statement outlining their joint vision for Syria after a tripartite meeting, SANA reports
Pro-government Al-Watan looks ahead at the political process with the Eastern Ghouta operation coming to a close
Writing in Al-Watan, Anas Wahib al-Kurdi details the options Turkey now faces to realize its vision in northern Syria
Russia’s foreign minister says the U.S.-led coalition’s rhetoric on Syria is at odds with the situation it sees militarily on the ground, according to SANA
The Damascus suburbs are being subjected to severe bombardment and chlorine attacks, Zaman al-Wasl reports
The Russian Defense Ministry says a technical malfunction could be behind the plane’s demise, SANA reports
Writing in Al-Watan, one of Assad’s top aides dissects the escalating rhetoric over nuclear weapons seen in the Western media
A regime offensive in the Eastern Ghouta and a rally in Berlin backing the newly freed Salih Muslim marked the first weekend of March
Moscow’s actions in the Ghouta – military and political – should be seen as a strengthening of its position independent of the fate of Assad, Enab Baladi writes
‘Aid to the people of Ghouta’ inscribed on rounds fired at government forces and allied militias in the southern region
Media and opposition sources report deployment of heavy reinforcements in preparation for an upcoming attack on the besieged suburb
Research center tracks Syria’s military and political developments over the first month of 2018
Kurdish commander stops shy of requesting Syrian army support as Operation Olive Branch drags into its fourth week, Alsouria Net reports
Senior SNC members consider the body a weakened entity and see no gain in leading it, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Two-page document follows reports of ‘flexibility’ from U.N. officials in dealing with controversial Syrian figures, Saudi-owned newspaper reports
Moscow platform leader conflates volume of opposition media criticism with scale of actual conflict in Syria, Alsouria Net reports
Syrian officials meet with Russian business reps to promote joint projects in oil, gas and minerals, SANA reports
Instead of using the opportunity to address U.S. goals for peace, Trump’s speech was used to threaten and frighten those who are most vulnerable, Wael Sawah writes
Event aims to bring together private and public sectors to explore reconstruction projects in Syria, SANA reports
The official Syrian media’s distortion of the conference’s closing statement is evidence of its discontent, Ibrahim Hamidi writes
‘Syrian Resistance’ militia leader is said to have used forged documents to travel to Sochi, according to Russia
Social media users on all sides take aim at disappointments of the National Dialogue Congress hosted by Russia
Moscow and Washington’s shared interests with Ankara run deeper than those with their Kurdish allies, Souriatna writes
Moscow and Washington had more to lose than gain from backing their Kurdish allies in Afrin, Murad al-Quwatli explains
Change in rebel position follows trip by opposition negotiators to the Russian capital earlier this week, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Political advisor to the Syrian president writes that U.S. economic strength is based primarily on the creation of perpetual war
Turkish troops crossed into Syria on Sunday as part of Operation Olive Branch, which aims to establish a ‘secure zone’ according to Ankara
Trump administration suspended backing for CIA-vetted rebels in July last year
Lavrov says his country’s diplomatic initiatives have been invaluable to the progress of the political track, Al-Hayat reports
Several Kurdish bodies are vying for a place at the negotiating table ahead of the National Dialogue Conference in Russia’s Sochi, Al-Modon writes
President of Russia’s Muslim region says his republic is ready to assist Syria in rehabilitating former fighters, Enab Baladi reports
Council member said no invitation has been received by any Turkmen member in the key opposition group, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Russian and American plans for Syria are expected to involve greater Kurdish inclusion, YPG commander tells Asharq al-Awsat
Part two of Al-Modon’s interview with the Carnegie Moscow director looks at Russian ambitions and limits in Syria
The Carnegie Moscow director speaks with Al-Modon about what Russia wants to achieve from its time in Syria
High-level Russian delegation is in Syria to discuss ‘major economic projects’ with a focus on the resource and energy industries
Expecting the Assad regime to reciprocate the opposition’s compromises will not improve Syria’s chances at a peaceful and dignified future
The U.S. is ‘re-educating’ radical Islamist fighters to serve in its campaign against the Syrian army, Firas Deeb writes
Russia is throwing its weight behind the potential key figure in the transition stage, defected government official tells Alsouria
Assad’s former vice president has been touted as a possible key player in mediating a solution with the Syrian opposition, Alsouria writes
The Russian president’s surprise stopover offers an insight into the asymmetrical relationship between the two allies, Zaman al-Wasl writes
Samih Shukri promotes Egyptian-Russian efforts to resolve regional crises ahead of state visit by Vladimir Putin
Veteran opposition figure Michel Kilo says the Assad regime is trying to derail Geneva by continuing to lay waste to opposition areas
Sada al-Sham speaks to the former HNC member about the recent wave of resignations and the role of the Russian-backed opposition in future dialogue
The Moscow platform has been accused of attempting to ‘dilute’ the opposition in the lead up to Geneva
In a joint statement, influential figures slam new negotiating body for cowing to pressure from Russian-backed groups
Assad’s allies Russia and Iran will not foot the money needed to bankroll the upcoming rebuilding phase, Jihad Yazigi writes
Despite the similarities at first glance, the terms of the new statement could tangle the opposition in internal quarreling, Abdelrahman explains
Statement issued by bureaus calls for a return to the initial Riyadh demands and a rejection of its amendments, Orient-News reports
Loyalist mouthpiece Al-Watan paints the Syrian-Russian relationship as force for ‘righteousness’ and stability in the region
Both the Russian-backed body and other opposition members admit rift occurred over each side’s positions toward Assad, Alsouria Net writes
At least 10 members of the negotiations body have resigned in the wake of its chairman stepping down
Parties to meet in hopes of hashing out unified vision over Assad’s role in the transitional stage and the Syrian constitution, Saudi-owned Al-Hayat reports
Alsouria reveals which key figures will be participating in the second round of Saudi talks as debate peaks around the future of Assad and a united opposition
Former Coalition president says a Russian-U.S. consensus on letting Assad remain ignores the roots of the catastrophe, and may accelerate the collapse of the region
The Kremlin has faced strong criticism over its plans to bring together the Assad regime and the opposition away from the U.N.-backed dialogue in Switzerland
Various opposition platforms will meet in the Saudi capital later this month in an effort to mend differences ahead of U.N.-led talks, Enab Baladi writes
America hopes to enlist Russian help in pushing forward a solution in Syria as world leaders meet for talks in Southeast Asia, Ibrahim Hamidi explains
Pro-Hezbollah Lebanese newspaper claims American official met with Syrian security head Ali Mamlouk during visit to Damascus last week
Opposition says the Syrian tragedy will not be solved by a government under the umbrella of the Assad regime, Alsouria Net writes
Russia says joint U.N.-OPCW report is based mostly on assumptions and selective use of facts, official media reports
Russian diplomat says success of the Moscow-backed talks have motivated the U.N. to restart negotiations in Switzerland, SANA reports
NATO allies Washington and Ankara are working toward separate ends in Syria as the countries face a split in their Middle East strategy, Ibrahim Hamidi writes
During talks with Russian representatives, Syrian president highlights plans to amend the constitution and hold new parliamentary elections
Opposition figure and former celebrity personality speaks with All4Syria about the Cairo platform’s vision of a political solution
Opposition sources say Russia and the UAE are looking to advance talks using Mohamad Dahlan, a Palestinian intelligence figure who has been linked to numerous regional intrigues
Competition for control of strategic and business sectors are fostering dangerous tensions between the two countries, according to Alsouria Net
Washington correspondent Hussain Abdul Hussain explains why America viewed the Assad regime as a valuable partner in the past, and why that has changed
Washington’s ignorance and failure in implementing its foreign policy are clear indicators of the impending collapse of the U.S. empire, Assad’s chief propagandist writes in Al-Mayadeen
Kurdish figures tout the proposed meeting at the Russian airbase in Lattakia as a possible ‘beginning of the end’ to the Syrian crisis, loyalist Al-Akhbar writes
Washington’s miscalculations have resulted in a rupture of the regional power balance in favor of Syria and Russia, Al-Baath contributor Emad Salem writes
Activists shame international community for its tepid response to civilian deaths resulting from the campaign to eradicate ISIS, Souriatna writes
Zaman al-Wasl interviews the opposition figure about the developments on the Syrian stage following the recent U.N. General Assembly
Russian foreign minister points to the ‘questionable’ actions of U.S.-led forces in Syria, including the shelling of civilians and government forces, SANA reports
With the West now reluctant to support regime change in Syria, its current priority is establishing a watertight opposition for future elections, Wael Sawah writes
Assad’s continued expansion near the Jordanian border follows signs of a possible detente between Damascus and Amman
Recent visit by Russian representatives to Syria aims at bolstering economic and trade ties, official media reports
Russian Defense Ministry spokesperson says all strikes over the past week had exclusively targeted Nusra positions, official media reports
Education directorate says decision was made due to the ‘monstrous attack’ waged by Syrian and Russian warplanes, Alsouria Net reports
Syria and Russia have stepped up their massive bombing campaign on areas of the rebel-held province despite the cease-fire agreement
Fragmented visions on rebuilding Syria have created uncertainty around the roles foreign countries will play in the coming stage, writes Ibrahim Hamidi
Although the successes of Astana can not be ignored, says Walid al-Bunni, real solutions should not be expected until ISIS and Nusra are kicked from Syrian soil
Accusations the leaders met come amid rumors of a forthcoming Turkish military operation in the rebel-held Syrian north
Writing in Al-Hayat, Wael Sawah asks how we can accept a victor in Syria if so many active parties have failed to achieve their most important interests
Writing for Al-Modon, Sataa Nour El-Din asks which army will assume the narrative of victory following the defeat of ISIS
Enab Baladi highlights the myriad of interests and concerns surrounding a possible foreign intervention against Islamist factions in the rebel-held province
Safe zone plan has encouraged optimism among citizens who hope the access to markets will contribute to better living conditions, Enab Baladi writes
As the international consensus leans increasingly toward Assad staying, will Syria’s main opposition eventually get in line with its backers, Souriatna asks
The Syrian-Palestinian political commentator says the powerlessness of the opposition stems from its failure to understand its own role, and its relationship with foreign powers and its own people
Ministry spokeswoman says terrorists in the southern province intend to frame the Syrian government for an attack, official media reports
Recent de-escalation agreements have not protected many civilians from the brunt of battle as fighting persists in several areas of the country, Sada al-Sham writes
Assad forces obstructed the entrance of Russian delegates to rebel-held border area in effort to forestall deal, opposition website reports
Russian FM says Moscow is committed to assisting regional leaders in merging Syria’s political opposition ahead of negotiations
Writing for the Saudi-owned outlet, Hamidi says the Russian-led cease-fire plan will fail if not followed by political efforts aimed at unity instead of division
Major efforts are underway to unify the scope of the opposition ahead of upcoming peace talks in Astana and Geneva, Souriatna writes
Adnan Ali outlines the recent political and military developments, asking if the opposition is succumbing to international pressure around the fate of Assad
All4Syria asks whether recent developments on the Syrian scene, both political and military, suggest the start of a new stage of conflict between big powers?
Russian diplomat says 2016 peace deal would have witnessed breakthrough had the U.S. worked to separate moderate opposition from terror groups, state media reports
Talk is circulating of who will likely succeed the opposition negotiator following predictions of a reshuffle at the request of main backer Saudi Arabia, Alsouria Net writes
Saudi FM purportedly told Syrian opposition that group must reinvent its ‘vision’ or risk becoming obsolete, Alsulta Alrabiha writes
France’s dynamic new president has demonstrated the willingness to show fresh leadership on the global stage, Saudi-owned Asharq al-Awsat newspaper writes
Al-Araby’s political analyst Salama Kila paints ISIS as an imperialist tool used as by the powerful as a pretext for invasion and conquest
Local monitoring group says regime and Russian forces have violated the truce 98 times since it went into force on Saturday, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Rumors of meeting are aimed at delegitimizing the group in the wake of the safe-zones agreement in the south, rebel spokesman tells Zaman al-Wasl
Writing for the Turkey-based outlet, Abou al-Khair al-Attar claims Israel benefits from prolonging the crisis in Syria largely at the expense of Ankara
With news of an agreement between big powers for a a safe zone in the south, the opposition is becoming aware that decisions on Syria’s future are increasingly out of their control, Ali Ayed writes
Russian foreign minister says main parameters have been agreed on as Moscow leads negotiations around proposed safe zones
Assad’s failure to secure the areas he retakes will be the opposition’s last hope in gaining public support, a former media executive writes for Saudi-owned newspaper
Veteran opposition figure Michel Kilo asks if the cooperation between the U.S. and Russia on the de-escalation zones proposal is a step forward, or just hot air
A pro-regime columnist says that Syria will be a test to know if Trump can face the American deep state and succeed in normalizing relations with Russia
Talks are still ongoing in Geneva, although there are still no direct negotiations between the regime and the various opposition platforms, SANA writes
The buffer zone in southern Syria agreed upon between Russia and the United States is creating division among opposition ranks, Enab Baladi reports
SANA quotes Russian foreign minister as saying that the latest discussions between the different opposition ‘platforms’ have represented a qualitative shift
The Syrian government is making significant economic concessions to Russia, which will have long-term damaging effects on the Syrian economy, Enab Baladi writes
Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan voice concerns over Russia’s attempts to involve its allies in the de-escalation zones, Alsouria Net writes
Russian deputy FM says American claims of new chemical attacks planned by Assad government are unsupported and hinder the peace process
Russia’s top diplomat meets with head of Cairo-backed opposition group in Moscow to discuss ceasefire and upcoming negotiations in Geneva and Astana
Russia acknowledges failure of pro-Assad forces to advance on the ground resulting in the regime’s announcement of a two-day truce in the besieged southern city, Souriatna reports
Moscow ends communications channel with Washington designed to prevent accidents over Syrian airspace after the downing of Syrian plane by U.S.-led coalition
Russian president says talks were held with Syrian counterpart prior to commencing combat operations in Syria, state media reports
Amman closed the crossing in 2015 amid intensified clashes on the southern border between Syrian regime and opposition forces
French President Macron must convince Moscow of the benefits of a political solution if Paris hopes to have any luck in settling the Syrian crisis, Michel Abu Najm writes for Saudi-owned newspaper
Prime minister of the breakaway republic weighs in on the Syrian political process on the sidelines of the International Media Forum in Yalta
Hezbollah-run media warns of an end to ‘self-restraint’ after U.S. forces targeted Iranian-backed militias, while questions remain as to whether Russia approved the statement
Washington aims to limit Tehran’s political weight and break the line of Iranian influence by engaging in deal-making with Russia, Ibrahim Hamidi writes for Saudi-owned newspaper
Russian experts claim Moscow must decide whether to cut and run or double down, as attack may be another indication of a shift in American policy toward Syria
Talks between Russia’s deputy foreign minister and Syrian envoy highlight importance of safe zone plan and reconstruction phase to alleviate suffering of civilians
As the U.N.’s third envoy to the crisis, de Mistura’s efforts have largely focused on accommodating the Assad regime and Russia at the expense of the Syrian opposition, Walid al-Kuwatly writes
Assad regime bombards Kafr Laha with vacuum bombs, killing a woman and injuring others, opposition website reports
Damascus mobilizes forces to desert region in attempt to prevent U.S.-backed rebels from making further gains in the area, opposition outlet reports
We should be wary of placing too much hope on the outcome of the most recent Astana talks, as the three previous rounds in the Kazakh capital produced little results, Walid al-Bunni writes
Russian FM tells U.S. president that America could play key role in preserving security inside proposed safe zones, Syrian government media reports
Abdulnasser Al-Ayed explains that for Russia’s ‘safe zone’ proposal to work, Moscow will need to consider U.S. concerns despite attempts to sideline Washington in the Syrian peace process
Russian-sponsored deal will involve the forced relocation of around 8,000 people to Idleb and Aleppo provinces, opposition outlet writes
Saudi-owned Al-Hayat reports rebel delegation approves plan but chooses to walk out of negotiations in protest at Assad regime’s continued bombardment of opposition areas
Serving as a battleground for countless foreign and ideological belligerents, the greatest danger facing Syria is the fragmentation and polarization of its society, Walid al-Bunni writes
Armed opposition gives preliminary approval of Russian plan involving the establishment of “tension reduction” zones in Idleb province, north of Homs city, Eastern Ghouta and the country’s south
Russia’s head of arms control claims new ‘chemical theater’ could take place in the Damascus countryside, Saudi-owned Al-Hayat reports, weeks after Putin pointed to the possibility of ‘fake’ gas attacks to justify further U.S. strikes on the Syrian regime
The Assad regime is scrambling to receive assurances from allies and make sense of U.S. policy after the Trump administration’s surprise strike on a Syrian air base. But Damascus is failing to see that rules of the game have already changed, Yahya Al-Aridi writes for opposition outlet All4Syria
Russian foreign minister tells European counterpart that Moscow will continue to move ahead with plans for a peaceful political solution through U.N.-approved channels, despite efforts by some players to evade negotiations in favor for regime change in Syria
Opposition members and activists decry the forced relocation of thousands of civilians from the “four Syrian towns” as part of a negotiation deal to release kidnapped Qatari businessmen, Paula Istih writes for Saudi-owned Asharq Al-Awsat
UNSC Resolution 2254 is the only plan to settle crisis in Syria and covers all aspects of a peaceful solution, Russian foreign minister tells journalists during press conference in the breakaway republic of Abkhazia, Syrian state media reports
Saudi-owned Asharq al-Awsat explains that many opposition factions are still deciding whether to participate in the talks in the Kazakh capital, claiming that some parties believe Russia isn’t pulling its weight in enforcing the cease-fire deal
Donald Trump’s decision to strike the Shayrat base earlier this month was less about changing the balance of power in Syria, but instead represented a nod to his domestic rivals showing his willingness to act as a strong and decisive leader, Abdel Moneim Ali Eissa writes for loyalist outlet Al-Watan
Moscow’s behavior will further complicate the Syrian issue, opposition says, after Russia doubled down on its support for the Assad regime following the sarin gas attack earlier this month
Trump had to send a message to all parties supporting Assad that he won’t just resort to Syrian talks but will be part of the joint offensives in Syria, Tariq Alhomayed writes
Activists claim scores of people are being killed in Idleb and Hama by the Russian air force in retaliation for the U.S. missile strike on the Shayrat air base late last week, opposition media office writes
Russian military would respond with direct action in the event its units are threatened in Syria, Duma defense committee deputy tells Russian media in a warning to the Trump administration
Al-Hayat columnist Ibrahim Hamidi highlights four observations in the aftermath of the first American strike on Syrian army positions, explaining that the coming days will show which of two tracks will be taken by Russian and the U.S. in response — military escalation between the two superpowers, or a renewed interest in a military-political agreement
Vladimir Putin is a game-maker and a surprise-organizer. His counterpart in the Oval Office wants to be too
In a special op-ed for The Syrian Observer, the coordinator-general of the High Negotiations Committee explains that untying the Syrian knot will require isolating external influence on the Syrian scene, a transition with the establishment of a new political system, and the firm application of international law in order to hold war criminals to account
Residents in the loyalist coastal regions are expressing concerns over the increase in military activity in the area, amid greater efforts by Moscow to secure strong footing at the negotiating table, opposition outlet Zaman al-Wasl writes
Amid heightened discontent among loyalists due to rising soldier deaths and poor social services, the wife of President Bashar al-Assad breaks with regime’s usual machismo image to appear in a video promoting the values of motherhood in Aleppo’s crippled districts
With the power balance in northern Syria looking as if it could tip the way of the Kurds, will Syria’s previously neglected community repeat the mistakes of Assad’s dominant minority experience, Eyed al-Jaafari asks in Lebanese Al-Modon
Coalition media office quotes HNC head as saying the Assad regime shifted focus of the talks to countering terrorism as a way to avoid discussing a political transition, adding that Moscow’s efforts to ensure a peace deal will not succeed while it supports the government on the ground
Gatilov avoids making comments on the progress of the ongoing intra-Syrian talks, stating that a number of meetings are still to take place with different Syrian participants
As key players look to fill the vacuum after the expected fall of ISIS’ capital of Raqqa, Al-Hayat columnist Ibrahim Hamidi breaks down the serpentine motivations behind the recent surge in international action on Syrian soil
Russian FM urges joint action from countries involved in the Syrian file, whether they were ‘invited to Syria by the legitimate government’ or not
As intense fighting continues in areas of the capital, a Russian daily newspaper rebukes the regime and backs opposition claims that government forces fled from battles and that Republican Guard units suffered heavy losses, website Alsouria Net reports
After an Israeli attack against an Iranian weapons shipment to Hezbollah in Syria, the writing is on the wall that Assad no longer commands respect anywhere as Russia and Iran try in vain to prop up a discredited regime
Syrian regime not receptive to de Mistura’s proposed visit to Syria as the next round of talks in Geneva approach
Kremlin spokesperson denies that Russia allowed Israel to strike Hezbollah from Syrian airspace and says talks between Putin and Netanyahu will focus on Syria, state news agency reports
Amid Russian-Iranian political rivalry over influence in Syria, more concrete competition in the sphere of economics surfaces as Damascus, in deference to Russian requests, delays implementation of strategic agreements with Tehran
Kurdish displays of multi-directional alliances with Russia, Iran and the U.S. come as no surprise, as all sides, united in curtailing Turkey’s influence in the region, contemplate the preservation of an Alawite state
As the results of Geneva talks divide the opposition delegation into parties of optimists and pessimists, the regime is swiftly extending its control, leaving little doubt that the revolution is nearing its end
This charade called Moscow and Cairo’s platforms is only an accessory to the Syrian regime
The Syrian regime forces scored a major gain against ISIS militants in the eastern countryside of Aleppo, while the negotiations at Geneva continue as Russia and US talk of plans for establishment of safe zones
The international body, along with its influence, has been compromised by the Russian veto which on several occasions stood to thwart any attempt at salvaging Syria today
The two warring Syrian sides do not have the power to reject or obstruct any peace deal and the position of the new US administration on Syria will determine whether the Geneva talks will be successful
De Mistura must try and unite the opposition delegations if the Geneva talks are to be successful, and any future solution will require UN member states to stop funding terrorism and collaborate with the Syrian government, writes Samer Dahi for loyalist Al-Watan
Syrian opposition leader reiterates that the upcoming round of Geneva talks should focus on the issue of political transition in Syria
The recent inclusion of Amman into the Astana consultations bloc may herald the end of Jordanian support for the Free Syrian Army in southern Syria, writes Samer Dahi for loyalist Al-Watan
Opposition website Enab Baladi reports on the eleventh-hour struggle between political and armed opposition groups to form a delegation for next week’s negotiations in Geneva with the Assad regime
Russia’s deputy FM speaks to government news agency SANA about Moscow’s expectations ahead of next week’s UN-supervised negotiations in the Swiss city of Geneva
Opposition outlet AlSouria Net speaks with the Syrian actor and member of the Cairo platform about next week’s negotiations in Geneva with the Assad regime, the role rebel groups will play, as well as Moscow’s intentions surrounding the political process in Syria
Alsouria reveals the names of the 21-member delegation to the upcoming talks in Switzerland, as confirmed by the HNC late last week, despite prominent rebel groups Ahrar al-Sham and Jaish al-Islam being excluded from the final list
Various opposition groups are refusing to cooperate to form a delegation for the upcoming Geneva negotiations with the Assad regime, as rifts emerge between the HNC and rebel leaders who participated in the Astana meetings late last month, Ibrahim Hamidi writes
Saudi-based opposition newspaper reports on accidental killing of three Turkish soldiers in Russian operation near Syria’s northern border, as Putin attributes blunder to ineffectual military partnership between the two countries
State media SANA reports on meeting between Syrian president and Russian Duma delegation as sides look to boost cooperation in the education and health sectors following recent gains against the armed opposition
Political opposition stands its ground against attempts by Moscow to influence the make-up of its negotiating delegation at the upcoming Geneva talks, while the US presidency begins meetings with UN and regional leaders on the Syrian issue, Sada al-Sham writes
Top opposition members weigh in on agenda of upcoming Geneva talks during meeting with HNC representatives, Coalition media reports
In Saudi-owned Al-Hayat, Ibrahim Hamidi breaks down the current struggle for representation at the upcoming negotiations as well as the tug of war around prioritizing the political and military tracks
In the lead-up to the Syria talks in Geneva, attendees should prepare for the US president to shift focus from the political process to the issue of establishing safe zones, Ali Dahi writes in loyalist Al-Watan
Russian FM rallies for Syria’s return to the 21-member body claiming the suspension of its membership has hindered efforts at securing peace in the country, Syrian state media reports
Saudi-owned Al-Hayat details the recommendations inside the separate Kurdish and Russian draft constitutions, which call for greater autonomy for Kurds and a more decentralized government, while also acknowledging the multi-ethnic make-up of Syria’s demography
Loyalist newspaper Al-Watan explains Syrian political opposition figures invited to Russia’s capital Moscow for meetings after news emerged of Russian plans to impose a new constitution on the rebel delegation at Astana
Rebel representative denies opposition delegates agreed to consider Russia’s draft constitution, saying that three issues will determine whether the opposition will continue its participation in political process — these include consolidating the ceasefire, bringing in humanitarian aid and releasing prisoners, Alsouria Net writes
Ain al-Medina explains the reason Moscow sent non-Russian special forces to a foreign country as part of a special mission for the first time since the breakup of the Soviet Union
Opposition spokesman announced the rebel delegation to Astana refused to address Moscow’s calls to review a new draft constitution, Zaman al-Wasl reports
The draft constitution has been prepared by Russian experts in order to speed up the political process
Russian senator overseeing committee on foreign affairs voices confidence in truce process as ceasefire gains popularity among armed opposition groups, Syrian government newspaper SANA reports
According to Coalition media reports, deputy opposition president believes FSA and other rebel groups will form a joint council to monitor the ceasefire following negotiations with the regime in the Kazakh capital
Alsouria Net speaks to insider at recent meetings between Turkish representatives and the Syrian armed opposition, in which most major rebel groups — except Ahrar al-Sham — agreed to attend the negotiations with the Assad regime in Astana next week
Government-run newspaper SANA says Russia accepts the attendance of the UN Syria envoy at Monday’s negotiations in Kazakhstan
Writing for All4Syria, Walid Bunni urges opposition factions attending the upcoming talks in Astana to resist foreign pressure for short-term gains
Deputy head of the Syrian Interim Government expresses hope that a Trump presidency will contribute to Turkey’s efforts to ensure a successful ceasefire in Syria
What Moscow is trying to achieve with the political settlement depends to a large extent on the Turkish and Iranian positions, and on the possibility of reaching clear agreements between these actors amid independent efforts to direct their battles in ways which achieve only their interests
Russia is not serious in its wish to impose a ceasefire, Walid al-Bunni argues
Lebanese militia stopped Russian engineers from entering the area outside the capital after negotiators reached an agreement with locals, sources claim
Russia’s acknowledgment of the armed opposition is one of the requirements of profiting politically from the victory in Aleppo. This means that transforming the military victory into a political settlement requires recognizing the enemy before sitting with him and agreeing to a solution to the conflict.
Is it really possible for Russia, Turkey and Iran to achieve a lasting solution which enables Syrians to choose their political system in a secular and democratic state, as stated by the three countries following meetings in Moscow?
Unannounced negotiations are being held between American and Russian representatives to draft constitutional and political principles for a solution built on the principle of “political quotas” close to “the moderate Lebanese model”
The unpredictability of Russia’s Syria policy troubles both its allies and enemies who worry the Kremlin may be selling empty promises ahead of upcoming peace talks in Geneva
The gamble made by Damascus and its allies is that the US will be in a hurry to make any achievement in the Syrian crisis, and will accept the idea of Assad’s nomination in the coming elections due to domestic reasons related to their own upcoming election season
In the wake of Aleppo’s fall and the upcoming peace talks in Geneva, Moscow moves to obtain the upper hand on Tehran and Hezbollah in securing its interests in Syria
Tensions rise between the two key powers as Russia issues firm statement warning any side of retaliation if warring parties attempt to obstruct the evacuation of locals
Does sharing Syria in its current state mean dividing it among its occupying powers? The facts say that the forces which control Syria today will not be able to coexist within this division, Walid Bunni argues
President Bashar al-Assad has accused the US of sponsoring terrorist groups in Syria by labeling them ‘moderate opposition’. In an interview with the Russian TV channels, Russia 24 and NTV, the Syrian president said the United States tried to promote the idea of so-called moderate opposition in Syria.
Following is the full text of the interview:
Interim government’s minister for health calls on international community to pressure belligerents to stop indiscriminate shelling of Aleppo after 56 civilians were killed on Friday
Rebel groups voice willingness to negotiate safe passage for civilians after withdrawing from Aleppo’s Old City
Coalition U.N. envoy rejects Moscow’s veto of a seven-day cease-fire aimed at allowing desperately needed aid to enter the besieged eastern Aleppo neighborhoods
De Mistura denied his intention to resign from his post, expecting Obama and Putin will continue their efforts to reduce the level of violence and to increase humanitarian aid till President-elect Donald Trump takes office early next year
Trump symbolically and practically has given a green light to finish off Aleppo city, and he has become, along with Obama, partners with Putin in the most horrific stage the city has endured in its long history, writes Abdel Wahab Bedarkhan
Russian FM says proposed opposition conference organized by Paris will hinder any upcoming Syrian-Syrian peace talks
Damascus has rejected a proposal from Moscow to host a broad conference for the Syrian opposition with “Russia’s guarantees” aiming to form an expanded opposition coalition ahead of possible peace negotiations in Geneva
Confusion heads political expectations worldwide, with cautious optimism and wishful thinking being shared between the current US administration, Russia, Iran and Assad, as concrete details around what a Trump presidency would look like remain unclear
The advent of Trump to the presidency is likely to draw the curtain on this era, which requires relying more than before on subjective factors, and inventing means of resistance which are less costly to the revolution, and less dependent on external support
Despite the president-elect’s promises to withdraw American power from the region and revert to a more isolationist strategy, history shows us that major changes in US foreign policy rarely occur with the rotation of presidential administrations, writes Eyyad al-Jaafari
Event will include leading domestic and internationally-based opposition figures in the Syrian capital with support from Russia and the Assad government
Trump will not support the armed opposition and will not support intervention in Syria, loyalists say, but he will strongly support fighting terrorists
Aleppo’s opposition fears Russian plans for all-out offensive after claims point to rebel’s use of chemical weapons in regime areas
Russian PM says high-level Israeli officials expressed their desire for someone who can control the situation on the ground in Syria
Russian and Egyptian foreign ministers speak about boosting cooperation between the two countries
More than 12,000 square km of territory has been liberated from terrorist control due to Russian and Syrian forces, Russian defense minster claims
The issue that is difficult to find a clear explanation for so far is the reduction in the intensity of the bombardment. Is there something threatening the Russian aircraft? Or is Putin sending a message to the Iranians after the dispute that erupted between them that they will lose without his support?
One of the most likely reason’s for Russia’s announcement to halt raids on Aleppo may be that Moscow has begun to sense the weight of international pressure upon it, and has begun to resent the situation of international embarrassment which the developments in Aleppo have caused
Upcoming bilateral talks between Syrian and Russian foreign ministers to focus on military, political, and humanitarian situation
Russian FM explains fighting terror and starting political process a top priority, during meeting with German and French leaders in Berlin
“Frankly, right now I do not see any preconditions for the ministerial meeting… as of today, at issue is the fulfillment of existing arrangements,” deputy FM tells reporters in the Russian capital
Foreign ministry spokesperson says act will be considered an attempt to assist and bolster terrorists in Syria if no condemnation of the Belgian strike is issued
Opposition figure calls Russian-proposed temporary truce in Aleppo a ‘gimmick’ aimed at breaking the FSA
Syrian embassy in Moscow confirms foreign minister will pay to visit Russian capital in the coming weeks
The Syrian war, which displays open geographical boundaries, requires closure at the level of all the region’s nations. This is a measure demanding coordination which is still not there, due to the sharp Russian-American clash.
This development represents a departure by the opposition because of the blatant shift in Russia’s role from a joint position in international oversight of the political process, alongside the US, to a direct party to the war, alongside the regime, against the Syrian people
Second mortar attack in less than two weeks targets Russia’s embassy in the Syrian capital
Syrian president says he hopes normalization of relations between Moscow and Ankara could help shift Turkey’s Syria policy
Christians in these areas have also suffered from the Iranian presence, but in a different way from bombardment and destruction like Syria’s other areas, as communities leaving in large part due to a moral collapse and widespread disorder
Opposition leader condemns Russia for vetoing a French-Spanish draft resolution aimed at preventing the aerial bombardment of Aleppo
Coalition spokesperson says meeting with Russian media delegation aims to draw world public opinion closer to the Syrian revolution
Military sources claim the international coalition against ISIS conducted strikes against the regime army in Al-Tharda Mountain to prevent the radical group from obtaining internationally banned weapons
Russian foreign minister says Nusra Front and ISIS will never be part of any ceasefire agreement as Moscow upholds its demands calling for the separation of Nusra from Western-backed “moderate opposition”
Al-Shehabi urged the government to support the industry sector in Aleppo so it can restore its role in the economic development process in Syria
Opposition figure says world must reign in and punish Russia for pushing the world toward a situation which resembles Germany’s role in Europe prior to WW2
Moscow to send delegation of experts to Geneva for consultations with the US with the aim of finding a possible solution to the war in Syria
Daily life in Aleppo will descend into hell within a month under air strikes from the regime and its Russian ally, civil defense official warns
Boris Johnson tells Turkish media that Assad, Russia and Iran are carrying out a large proportion of the massacres in the city as fighting intensifies in residential areas
Regime sources claim Moscow has built up its ground forces including heavy artillery and multiple rocket launcher systems in the Damascus suburb
Head of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation issues call to intervene quickly to stop the killing and massacres which are being carried out in residential areas
SNC deputy says opposition will abandon efforts to reach a political settlement after Assad regime and Russia intensified their attacks on rebel-held areas of Aleppo
States concerned with the conflict are rushing to divide up the country and threatening both its existence and the fate of its people
Muallem discusses situation in Syria with Russia’s Lavrov as well as representatives from Iraq, Belarus and Oman
US betrayed Syrian revolution because it wanted to destroy the country’s military infrastructure as it did in Iraq, says prominent thinker and author
President Bashar al-Assad gave an interview to Associated Press published Thursday. Following is the full text as appeared on SANA, the Syrian official news agency:
Besides the U.S., no one but Assad and the Russians has an air force in Syria
The danger does not lie only in what has happened so far, but more in what the Obama administration may do during what remains of its term
Syria has become divided between conflicting forces into spheres of influence
Moscow says it would like the recent US-Russian deal to be made public in order to avoid misinterpretations of its content
Main political opposition says FSA will deal “positively” with truce but stressed rebel groups have the right to defend Syrians and the revolution against regime aggression
Foreign ministry source says Damascus will refuse entry of all humanitarian aid to the besieged city, especially that provided by Turkey, without coordination
Lebanese newspaper says Putin and Obama bear responsibility for Erdogan and Assad failing to meet
Top Iranian and Russian diplomats meet to discuss strategy of combating terrorism in Syria
“It does not seem that Obama is far from joining the list of the Russian president’s fans, especially in that he was keen throughout his second term, which witnessed a terrible escalation in the brutality of the Assad regime against its opposition, to stand on the side of the victors”
Sources claim that Saudi-backed opposition developed a detailed scenario for what is required by the transitional stage and determining the fate of the political situation to save the Syrian people
Top diplomats meet on sidelines of G20 summit in Chinese city of Hangzhou
The clashes that have erupted in Hassakeh between the Kurdish PYD militia and the forces of Assad’s mafia regime may be one of the swift results of this common approach and a first indication of the new understandings between Turkey and Russia, which Iran may not be far from.
Nusra’s recent effort to rebrand itself under a new name does not change the fact it is a terrorist organization, top US diplomat tells journalists
Following the recent Turkey-Iran-Russia strategic alliance, Assad sought to find a role to play in the Kurdish file, choosing to strike Hassakeh in order to be at the center of the Kurdish issue
Russia and the United States have not yet agreed on dividing influence in the Middle East, and they are providing space to the regional countries to dive further into this quagmire
For the consecutive third day, Russian warplanes launch attacks from Iran to strike Syria, and targets “overlap” with America
Moscow is convinced that Syria’s opposition should distance itself from ISIS and Jabhat al-Nusra
The new mechanism will be composed of intelligence services, foreign ministries and militaries of the two parties
The opposition is preserving pieces of the injured people’s clothing and shrapnel from the barrel bombs as evidence that could be used for examination and analysis
According to leaders in the Islamist and moderate groups, Western diplomats, and officials and civilian activists in Aleppo, 10 reasons can be noted for the “Aleppo coup”
The regime had been pursuing a political-military plan based around extending its control over Aleppo and waiting for American-Russian pressure to hold a round of negotiations in which the regime would be the victorious party
It is possible to expect Clinton’s policy to be built on a review of the views of five women from among those expected to play a major role in her administration
Russian deputy FM tells press that there are no plans for a major offensive in Aleppo city after US warns of escalation
Kremlin spokesman says media “fabricated” claims Russia dropped chlorine gas on Saraqeb city in response to the shooting down of a helicopter by rebel forces
What Kerry says and what the Europeans think is not important
Sources claim Syrian president traveled to Russian capital last month to discuss terms of a settlement between regional and international powers
It is expected that Russia will redouble its efforts politically and militarily until the end of this year to create a situation in Syria that allows them to achieve most of their aims from the intervention
Foreign ministry says it keenly followed developments between the two sides during Kerry’s recent visit to the Russian capital
Moscow had positively received the U.S. letter and had tried to offer some commitments
According to a seven-page draft agreement, Moscow and Washington are considering high-level coordination beyond “carrying out air defense” in Syria’s skies, to reach a level of “direct cooperation” between the two armies and their intelligence agencies against Nusra Front and ISIS
Opposition’s negotiating committee urges US and Russia to conduct a thorough review of their operation to fight terrorism in Syria
Coalition members criticize international community for lack of will in holding Russian, Iranian and Syrian human rights violators accountable
Syria’s main political opposition urges France, the US and the UK to assume its responsibility towards the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Syria
Khaled Khoja accuses “negligent friends” of attempting to prop up the Assad regime following Turkish prime minister’s comments on social media
US top diplomat to visit President Putin to discuss developments on Russia’s fronts
Russian FM expresses concern over UN envoy’s “lingering” to fulfill commitments to hold a new round of talks between the Assad regime and opposition in Geneva
Washington has delivered a proposal to the Kremlin accepting joint military coordination in return for Russia pressuring Assad to end the bombing of moderates and restart political talks
“We have presented a clear proposal that the transitional stage will be led by five deputies to the president,” opposition figure tells Russian reporters
Normalization of Turkey-Russia relations might reflect positively on the Syrian crisis, Russia’s ambassador says
Militias increasingly devoting themselves to the interests of Moscow and Tehran often at the expense of the Assad regime in the central province
Defense ministry spokesman says comments by US official on Russian actions in Syria lack specifics
Diplomat says Russia assisting Syrian army in fighting defensive battles to prevent Al-Qaeda’s Nusra Front from changing balance of power on the ground
The helicopter was brought down by the OSA system that was in the possession of Jaish al-Islam at the end of 2012
Russia feels that the search for options for a political settlement in Syria must be accelerated because it is stuck between diverging military and political priorities with Tehran and Damascus
UN envoy says resumption of the stalled Syrian peace talks still in the preliminary stage but hopes to resume negotiations next month
The Russian media’s announcement of a new Syrian cabinet before Damascus’ own state-run media has infuriated loyalists who claim Moscow is wielding all the power
Russian and Western-backed assaults on the Islamic State-held cities claims lives on all sides as fighting intensifies across the county’s north and east
Was the aim of the Russian defense minister’s visit to Syria an act of contempt against Assad in an attempt to portray him as being obedient to Russian orders?
Coalition’s political committee member says increasing flow of refugees part of regime plan to bring about demographic change in Syria through systematic displacement
Opposition figure says conflict will intensify as the regime and its allies aim to impose a military solution on the crisis as hopes for successful negotiations fade
Defense ministry spokesman rejects claims Russian air forces targeted US-backed opposition near the Iraqi border last week
Twin bombings kill a dozen people and injure scores more after suicide bombers target civilian districts of the suburbs
“All those armed formations that have not joined the regime of calm, or joined it but do not observe it, should bear all responsibility”
Lavrov warned that Russia will not approve any attempts on stalling air operations in Syria
If we look at the military situation on the banks of Euphrates, it is apparent that the Syrian regime forces and its allies – including Russia and Iran – are essential party in the war on ISIS in cooperation with the PYD and its US allies
Kremlin spokesman says two countries are not cooperating on fighting ISIS terrorists in Syria
Opposition surveillance claims Russian squadron left Hemeimeem airbase and committed attack in Idelb killing over 40 civilians
HNC spokesman says there are no plans to expand the negotiating delegation following the resignation of chief negotiator Mohammed Alloush
Armed groups that have not joined the ceasefire after this week will become a legitimate target “regardless of whether they are on the terrorist list or not”, Russian FM announces
Defense ministry says no combat missions have been carried out by Russia’s air force in the northwestern province
Western-backed SDF forces plan to incorporate the northern province into Kurdish self-administration once ISIS forces are driven out, representative declares
Sources report Moscow’s draft constitution curtails presidential powers and the role of the military in state affairs, and proposes a “regional assembly” as a means of decentralization
Security official says Russian air force has helped eliminate around 35 percent of ISIS and Nusra Front terrorists in Syria since September
Questions remain as to why the key Lebanese Shiite group backed down from its accusations regarding the assassination of one of its top commanders in Syria
News of Russian foreign ministry official mocking Syrian president circulates through national media in most recent instance of Russian criticism of Assad regime
Defense ministry rejects reports by AP and the UN’s cultural agency that Russian forces are building a new base in the recaptured city of Palmyra
Rebel military sources claim Moscow is communicating directly with armed groups in Homs in an attempt to lure factions into entering dubious truces and sow suspicion among the opposition
It would be naïve for Washington to imagine that the Arabs, including those in the GCC and their leaders, are unable to read and comprehend the changing realities
Analysts claim Sunday’s unprecedented drop in the pound’s value is an indication that the country’s foreign reserves are almost depleted
Truce observance in the provincial capital is very fragile in light of the number of terrorist groups operating in the city, Kremlin spokesman tells reporters
Center for monitoring the cessation of hostilities agreement in Syria launches in Geneva, top Russian diplomat announces
It did not take long for the US to prove it was not a ‘friend of the Syrian people’ – if it ever was – but rather became a neutral actor at best
Russian deputy foreign minister says stalled talks are expected to recommence in May, Russian media reports
Health services and foodstuffs, including baby food, provided to families forcibly evicted from besieged towns in the country’s north-east
“Progress” in Damascus’ position following its acceptance of a “political transition” with its talk of forming an “expanded government”, in contrast to the HNC’s rigidity in clinging to the formation of a “transitional body” as the starting point for a political transition
Moscow backs Damascus’ calls for a ‘national government’ at the Geneva talks as Russian media attempts to portray pro-regime figures as legitimate opposition
The raging fighting weakens a weeks-old ceasefire agreement and threatens to derail U.N.-led peace talks
Russia’s foreign ministry says it has not been made aware of US plans to arm opposition fighters in the event the current ceasefire agreement collapses
Syrian president says Russia has proved its position as a superpower by adhering to strategy of values and compliance with international law
Talks must focus on forming a transitional governing body to lay the groundwork for a new constitution and ensure national elections are held, says political opposition body
Problem of extremism directly linked to the flow of refugees to Europe, Putin tells Austria’s president during meeting in the Russian capital
Deputy FM says calls for Assad to step down are an obstacle to the success of a political settlement in Syria
UN envoy meets with Russian foreign minister ahead of the resumption of peace talks in Switzerland next Monday
Kremlin’s goals are transparent and are represented through reaching a political solution in Syria, according to Vladimir Chizhov
Ministry says contingent of Russian military engineers and dog trainers have landed in Syrian coastal region
Terrorism in Syria and Iraq is receiving direct support from Turkey, Saudi Arabia, France and the United Kingdom, Syrian President Bashar Assad told Sputnik and Novosti
Moscow to deploy engineers and “special robots” to help in demining Palmyra following the Syrian army’s recapture of the ancient city last week
US Secretary of State marks August as the date for a new constitution following his meeting with the Russian president, accelerating the political battle between the Syrian sides
Moscow informed opposition members of the need to achieve political transition without addressing fate of Assad, source reveals
Moscow’s decision to withdraw its forces from Syria has caught some regime supporters off guard as many relied on the Russian presence for their security and income
Humble humanitarian relief reaches Syrian areas in dire need of help
All4Syria speaks with the head of the Building the Syrian State movement on what Russia’s decision to leave Syria means for Assad and the region
Western diplomats say the Russian withdrawal came as a surprise, especially that no indicators were detected beforehand
Presidential aide says Moscow’s decision to scale back its forces is a “positive” step during television interview
Syria says presidents agreed to the military scale back in a phone call, adding Russia will continue to offer support in combating terrorism
Deputy foreign minister says Moscow’s decision to pull out from Syria was agreed upon as Russia’s objectives had largely been fulfilled
Political opposition figure says Moscow’s decision to begin withdrawing its forces is due to Syrians’ rejection of foreign intervention
Assad’s top aide tells journalists that Russia’s air force has fulfilled all its objectives inside Syria
Backers tell regime and opposition delegations to negotiate about “material issues” as Damascus and Moscow struggle to see eye to eye on a range of matters
“Is it not Kerry, who agreed with Lavrov to the conspiracy theory which UN envoy Staffan de Mistura is carrying out against the Syrian opposition?”
Leaders from both countries agree to take “incremental steps” to tackle the possibility of a Kurdish state in Syria’s north
Pro-Damascus opposition meet at Russian-occupied air base to discuss forming group to draft new Syrian constitution
Regime loyalists, with the help of Russian experts, have been excavating Syrian antiquities in the southern Qalamoun region and shipping them off to unknown locations
Moscow says it supports the solution that the participants of the Syria negotiations decide on, including the idea of creating a federal state
The armed opposition’s acceptance of the ceasefire could open a wide door for Nusra and ISIS to bring a large number of fighters into their ranks, as the two strike religious chords with “feelings of injustice” and portraying themselves as the “only two parties” in Syria standing against Assad, Russia and their allied militias
Syrian presidential adviser tells reporters in the Russian capital that Washington’s stance on terrorism “should be clear as the Russians'”
Kremlin responds to Syrian president’s decision to fast-track election date prior to restarting peace talks in Geneva Thursday
Syrian president confirms his government’s keenness to contribute to implementing the Russian-US ceasefire deal
Major military commanders now are among the many regime loyalists paying homage to the Russian president’s influence inside Syria
Around 400 to 500 fighters have crossed the border, a Turkish security source confirmed
Syria’s representative to the UN says ISSG members should pressure the Turkish, Saudi and Qatari governments to end their support for terrorism and comply with UN resolutions
Russian PM criticizes Riyadh for suggesting deployment of ground troops as diplomats call on Moscow, Damascus and Islamic countries to help extinguish fundamentalism
Russian FM submits proposal to world powers to end fighting in Syria with the initiative expected to commence on March 1, if approved
Rebel council backed by the Free Police and the Sharia Court forms crisis operations room to provide and preserve essential needs for locals as fighting for the city intensifies
Attack targeting Turkmen town of al-Burj comes as reports emerge of new Russian violations of Turkish airspace near the border
Washington is truly working for an independent Kurdish state in the near east
International players urge Syrian opposition to attend talks as debate continues around the composition of the opposition’s delegation, goodwill measures, and the negotiation agenda ahead of Friday’s peace talks in Geneva
Russia’s deputy foreign minister declares peace talks later this week will be between Syrians alone
Manna is not part of the main opposition delegation, which was formed at a meeting in Saudi Arabia and has yet to say if it will take part in the peace talks
Opposition’s negotiating delegation in disarray as US secretary of state warns it could lose political and military support if it refuses to accept the conditions of the upcoming Geneva talks
The UN envoy appears to be preparing an alternative plan if his attempts to change the opposition negotiation delegation fail by promoting the need to involve civil society organizations and women in the peace negotiations
Russian air force operations against terrorists in Syria have drastically altered the situation on the ground, foreign minister tells reporters in Moscow
Opposition figure says Saudi foreign minister “personally” responsible for delay of the upcoming Geneva peace talks
An empowered Moscow, with its military presence and its “perpetual” military accord, has forced its interlocutors — including the Americans — to make one of two choices: a mixed opposition list; or two delegations, one the “Russian list,” and the other the “Riyadh list”
Moscow’s insistence on imposing Russian standards on the climate of the negotiations before they have begun could to a large degree obstruct the peace talks from being held at the scheduled time
Upcoming meeting between top Russian and US diplomats will explore Syrian political settlement in an “objective and comprehensive way”, says ministry spokesperson
The UN’s proposed peace talks are hardly the result of a genuine desire to stop the killings. Instead, they are meant to create the illusion that the international community has now reached a consensus on Syria. This is patently untrue
The US retreat from the Middle East, Russian expansionism in the region, and an increase in Tehran’s influence in Syria and the region has led the pro-Assad camp to dominate the Syrian file as we witness a decline of other influential regional and international players from the scene
“Hezbollah finds itself in an awkward position as its militia is unable to launch a wide response against Israel for fear of its response, which may result in more human losses in Hezbollah ranks, especially since a third of its fighters have perished in Syria”
The resolution opted for constructive ambiguity and mutual concessions in an attempt to secure a consensus. The result was a final draft outlining the maximum Moscow could get, and the minimum Washington would surrender
Putin stresses operations in Syria will continue until objectives are fulfilled, despite Turkish “aggression”
Newly-formed alternative opposition, Syrian Democratic Council, elects Qahm Movement’s Haytham Manna and Ilham Ahmed as joint presidents following summit in Hassakeh province
“The presence of Assad in Damascus is necessary and when the duty arises, we will receive him in Iran.” says Velayati
US advises Syria’s political and military opposition to adopt “creative language” when discussing the fate of President Bashar al-Assad during the opposition’s expanded conference in Riyadh this week
Foreign policy advisor to Iran’s supreme leader says Assad’s fate can only be decided by the Syrian people
FSA officers in Turkey have provided sensitive information, including rebels’ movements, bases, names and weapons to Russian intelligence
Ceasefire reached between regime and rebels in Al-Waar as Assad looks to consolidate his control over Syria’s strategic areas prior to the upcoming negotiations in Vienna
The secretary general of the Damascus–based opposition Syrian National Democratic Action Commission talks to Syria Times
The Syrian opposition finds itself today in front of a significant test: either to push for a unified effort and full coordination before entering into the political process, or face being placed on a list of terrorist organizations
Russian airbase at Hmeimem airport targeted by opposition forces stationed in the Ghab Plain
Economic, cultural, military and political ties between Moscow and Damascus have reached new phase, Syrian FM tells Russian deputy PM
Opposition representatives iron out kinks ahead of meetings in the Saudi capital, as sources report on the Assad regime’s reservations towards the results of the recent Vienna meetings
Main political opposition warns the situation on the ground may deteriorate in favor of regime forces if friendly forces fail to support Syrian rebels
President Bashar al-Assad tells Chinese Phoenix TV that you cannot take any concrete political step before defeating terrorism, because this is the biggest obstacle, and this is the prime concern to every Syrian. Following is the full text of the interview, as published by SANA, the regime’s official news agency
President Assad gave Italian TV channel RAI UNO an interview. Following is the full text, as published by SANA, the Syrian official news agency
Upcoming Riyadh Conference aims at forming a unified command to negotiate the details of a transitional governing body responsible for overseeing elections in Syria
Russian-supported Fourth Legion force will likely replace the NDF as the Assad regime moves to disband the Iranian-backed militia, sources claim
Hopes for Syrian political solution will remain futile as long as Moscow maintains its preconditions on Assad’s departure in an attempt to deprive Obama of a final diplomatic triumph
Sources claim the extent of the Russian raids were “limited”, and were not accompanied by ground operations
“What we want from our friends is either to provide a safe environment, or enable the Free Syrian Army to provide it,” says Coalition president
As the Syrian regime embraces the “Russian protection”, it finally becomes ready to engage in arbitration and partnership without the fear of being forced to divide its power
Russian deputy FM says Moscow in regular contact with opposition parties as foreign powers meet in the Austrian capital to discuss a political solution to the Syrian crisis
Is Moscow truly capable of offering real guarantees that the current regime will not rise once again, in a new form?
Families in the northern province of Idleb have resorted to digging bomb shelters in attempt to survive Russian bombing
Rebel commander confirms reports FSA was approached for a meeting with Russian representatives
Moscow and Tehran are about to approach a crossroad in their Syria policies, for both have different priorities that will be hard to reconcile
Opposition factions deny allegations that delegates visited the Russian capital for talks
The foreign ministers of Russia, US, Turkey and Saudi Arabia said they will reconvene next week, invite other regional powers
Syrian president welcomes Russian delegation as representatives from both countries urge strengthening of historical ties
Syrian president flown to Moscow on Russian military cargo plane for talks with Putin, newspaper reports
Western leaders make a show of empathy by talking about “the sufferings of the Syrian people”
Syrian political opposition says Moscow is trying to cover the ineffectiveness of its military operation with political means
Russian FM approves US proposal for urgent peace talks on Syria with representatives of other regional states
Armed opposition groups announce new coalition as pro-regime forces ramp up aerial and ground operations in the region
Syrian president called to Russian capital for talks in first trip abroad since beginning of Syrian crisis
Moscow to consider proposal from US to convene international meeting on Syria, with the participation of Jordan, Turkey and Saudi Arabia
Coalition official delivers memorandum to Russian embassy in Brussels denouncing Moscow’s actions against the Syrian people
Presence of fighters no longer limited to Russian naval base as several signs indicate increasing domination over Tartous, says local source
Russian president hits out at Washington for refusing to host high-level meeting on Syria
Foreign Ministry praises Moscow’s efforts in fighting terrorism in compliance with international law and the UN Charter
Monitoring group says regime and Russian strikes kill scores in Damascus marketplace and Aleppo countryside
Comments disqualify the EU of playing any positive role in finding a solution to the current crisis in Syria, says FM source
Russian air strikes target civilian areas three times more than ISIS positions, human rights group reports
President Putin tells journalists Russia’s military mission in Syria aims at working to secure stability and create the conditions for a political solution to the crisis
Moscow’s efforts to prop up the Assad regime with military support is bound to backfire, Coalition president tells Turkish reporters
“A military operation on the ground is needed in addition to the air operation,” Syria’s information minister tells Russian reporters
But does this almost Hollywood-style Russian intervention have an American director?
Western media bases its reports on unconfirmed data and unnamed sources, says Russian foreign ministry spokesperson
Delegations call on Russia to open safe humanitarian corridors, a decision that would have a “very positive impact on Syrians and enhance the stature and credibility of Russia vis-a-vis the Syrian people”
Christian group condemns the recent remarks by the Russian Patriarch following Moscow’s airstrikes in Syria
Syria’s Assad gave an interview to the Iranian Khabar TV channel. The following is the full text of the interview, as published by SANA
Kremlin spokesman says West has failed to explain the term “moderate opposition” in reference to Russia’s purported airstrikes on non-ISIS fighters
The solution to the Syrian crisis does not depend on Russia, Saudi FM tells al-Hayat in New York
We in the Syrian Coalition hold Russia legally and morally responsible for civilian casualties in Syria, an aggression that was carried out in partnership with the Iranian regime
“It is expected those who work for Iran [in Syria] will likely invest in the Syrian real estate and urban renewal sectors after the nuclear agreement is finalized and the freezing of Iranian assets is lifted”
It is quite interesting that Washington is still blabbering that “there is no place for Assad in a future Syria”
American suspicions increased after the Russians submitted hundreds of requests, to several countries, to gain permission for their military jets to cross the latter’s airspace to reach Syria, and assemble there
UN envoy earns approval from Syrian government and opposition to launch parallel negotiations on a number of issues in an effort to end the four-year crisis
Russia is engaging in a tacit competition with Iran – especially amid talks about the impending creation of a regional and international “contact group” after America’s ratification of the Iran deal next month
Presidential press-secretary tells journalists Russia would mull military involvement in Syria if requested by Assad regime
The Syrian people trust Moscow’s leadership and its intention to participate in the fight against ISIS and Nusra Front, FM tells Russian interviewers
Moscow will continue to provide military equipment to Syria’s Assad regime in accordance with international law, state Duma speaker announces
Assad’s regime even boasts that Moscow’s decision to hunker down demonstrates the strength of bilateral relations
Russia has sent a clear message to all the countries concerned about the ISIS threat that they should coordinate with the Syrian army to combat terrorism more effectively
Assad has given a lengthy interview to Hezbollah’s channel al-Manar. Below is the interview as translated and published by SANA, the Syrian official news agency
Third Moscow meeting has become a necessity due to the impossibility of resuming the Geneva process in the current circumstances, says Ali Haidar
No one has expected or demanded that every party should drop their weapons and forgo their means of pressure
Experts explain how the removal of opposition forces from Zabadani clears the way to establish an opposition free zone that extends along the Lebanese Syrian border
The Kremlin’s shifting Syria policy sheds light on the possibilities of a Russian-backed peace settlement, French sources reveal
At some point, I was optimistic that all fighting parties would work seriously to reach a political solution, but the recent massacre in Douma killed my optimism
Syria’s information minister dismisses rumors of a so-called Saudi-Syrian meeting regarding bilateral security and political issues
100 people were killed on Sunday in an air strike by the Syrian military on a market in the rebel-held district of Douma, 15 km northeast of Damascus
The difference between Moscow and the Syrian opposition has become vulnerable to a change in the past few months due to three factors: changes on the ground in Syria, a shift in regional and international attitudes towards the crisis, and the opposition’s favorable position towards terrorism
Regional crises should be solved by political means, Zarif tells reporters at Moscow press conference
Moscow has been able to engineer a new language for the Security Council regarding Syrian affairs, and it has succeeded – largely because the United States has allowed it to succeed
KNC still remains popular among a larger Syrian Kurdish community who cannot express their opinion while living under PYD repression, says Aliko
SNC rejects Russian initiative to form new international coalition, that includes the Syrian army and President Bashar al-Assad, to confront terrorism and ISIS, says Khoja
Opposition forces inside and outside Syria have made significant progress to unite their efforts and vision following June’s Cairo conference, says Coordination Committee head
Moscow issues brief statement announcing its invitation to the SNC to visit the Russian capital from August 12-13
Russia’s deputy FM tells reporters Moscow will not abandon its position on Syria, stating that the Kremlin remains committed to all agreed upon initiatives to solve the crisis
De Mistura believes that in the Geneva 3 meeting, Iranian backing, representation of the opposition by more than just the coalition, and a Russian-American understanding will eliminate the reasons for the failure of Geneva 2
Coalition’s aerial campaign not coordinated with the Syrian government and has deviated from its stated goals of fighting terrorism, says prime minister
Some American and European officials believe that the regime and its allies are leaking this kind of information to reduce pressure on it, and give the impression that ISIS is the only possible alternative
Statement comes after Russian president issues calls to unify forces against ISIS and other terrorist organizations in Syria and Iraq, hinting at an greater Iranian role in the process
Delegation of Syrian martyrs’ children met by Russian government and religious leaders on visit to nation’s capital
Washington and Moscow agree to continue push for political settlement following high-level meeting between US secretary of state and Russia’s foreign minister
Moscow angered over Russian military aid rerouted to Iranian-backed militias instead of regime fighters, says Syrian dissident
Russian president suggests building a regional force to combat terrorism during talks with Syria’s foreign minister in Moscow
Resuming political process will be focal point of talks during Syrian foreign minister’s upcoming visit, says Moscow
De Mistura should complete consultations and urge Syria’s neighbors to stop the expansion of terrorism, says Jaafari
UN envoy arrives in Damascus for talks with Syrian officials in a fresh bid to resolve the country’s four-year war
Moscow’s recent evacuation of Russian citizens raises questions about the Assad regime’s capacity to hold onto power
Move follows high-level meeting between Moscow and Washington in Russian city of Sochi
Syrian government showed readiness to move ahead with further talks, Russian deputy foreign minister says
Representative of the Russian delegation was asked a question regarding Moscow’s view of the possibility of a Syria “after Assad”
The Assad regime’s recent setbacks did not only push its “allies” to act to defend its interests in strategic areas, but also pushed its “enemies” to move to save it – or the rest of it – preventing its fall in the remaining Syrian geography
Lebanese newspaper reports upcoming conference in Cairo aims to develop strategy to satisfy Syria’s opposition while maintaining Assad’s presidency
What new developments have led some to conclude the Syrian crisis is on its way to a solution?
Announcement comes as US Secretary of State John Kerry meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in highest-level US visit to Russia since the beginning of the Ukraine crisis in 2013
Communities traditionally loyal to the Assad regime are reconsidering their support, as many Syrians see a serious decline of the regime’s popularity in its areas of influence
Geneva meetings do not constitute a conference and are not expected to produce any major announcements, says the UN special envoy
New agreement between Damascus and Moscow aims to boost cooperation in electoral expertise for optimal transparency
Delegation headed by Coalition President Khaled Khoja met with members of revolutionary and military forces, along with representatives of elected local councils to discuss the political, military and assistance affairs of the Syrian revolution
UN envoy will hold separate consultations with Syrian, regional and international parties prior to administering recommendations on a third Geneva conference , diplomatic sources claim
Talks between the Syrian government and opposition figures will be held separately at the upcoming Geneva talks in May
Political efforts to solve the Syrian crisis should include all regional and international sides at the upcoming Geneva peace talks in May, says Syrian deputy foreign minister
Deputy foreign minister reveals a third round of Syrian-Syrian talks will likely be held in the Swiss city of Geneva in May
Commission head stresses delegation will not be sent to any dialogue conducted by Kazakhstan
Ghalioun has called upon Arab League countries to lift a ban on the delivery of anti-aircraft weapons to the Free Syrian Army
Minister Zoubi says Syria’s political and economic system, strong army and independent decision-making aggravate its enemies
“We will declare our official position upon return to Damascus, but we think it is possible to build on the results in Moscow”, says secretary of the National Democratic Action Commission
Head of Syrian government delegation claims consultative meetings in the Russian capital were successful in spite of increasing geopolitical challenges
The opposition failed, while Jaafari’s arrogance and lack of respect foiled Moscow’s desire to provide a domesticated opposition that can persuade the Syrian people it would deliver their salvation
Deputy FM says Russians bear witness to the achievements of the Moscow meetings in spite of Saudi-led propaganda
Foreign Ministry calls for the enforcement of counterterrorism resolutions against terrorists and backing states after attack rocked Aleppo’s city
Government delegation refuses to assist in uncovering the fate of thousands of detained and missing inside Syria
Lavrov says challenges of terrorism are vast, requiring united efforts to find solutions to all urgent issues on the national agenda
“The process must also include the boosting of national reconciliations, supporting the army and armed forces against terrorism”
Syrian government delegate approves schedule for talks, calls on opposition for real action towards dialogue
Is Moscow the right place? Are those invited by Moscow representatives of the Syrian people? Are the Russians an appropriate mediator, and will applying the Geneva statement be the core goal of this meeting?
Committee member arrested by Syrian security forces while travelling from Beirut to Damascus
BSS decides not to participate in Moscow meetings after travel ban prevents the attendance of organisation’s leader
Russian ambassador says Moscow will continue boosting Syria’s military to fight terrorism
Opposition figures begin meetings as part of inter-Syrian talks in Moscow
Moscow II forum commences in Russian capital between Syrian regime and opposition groups
Level of representation from UN Syrian envoy’s office dependent on the details of upcoming Moscow II forum
President Bashar al-Assad did an interview with the U.S. CBS News. Following is the full text, as was published by SANA
Opposition parties claim national and moral responsibility requires opposition forces to invest in all available opportunities to alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people
“If you wish for a space where logic and reason rules, the political opposition should negotiate with the Alawite Sheikhs”
Iraqi and Syrian foreign ministers meet in Damascus to discuss improving ties between the two countries in light of the crisis facing the region
Russian Foreign Ministry says second round of inter-Syrian consultations in Moscow to be held in April
President Assad stresses the government and people of Syria trust the Russian leadership to find a solution to the country’s crisis
“Moscow has not benefited much from the mistakes of its previous Syrian meeting, it still adopts the principle of holding the meeting only with those who attend”
NCC claims attendance will be considered only if new solutions are proposed
UN Envoy for Syria to receive invitation for second round of Moscow talks to be held in April
Moscow slams West over its unsupported accusations of Syrian government use of chlorine gas on civilians
President Bashar al-Assad gave an interview to Portuguese state television, RTP, following is the full text as published by SANA
Details of future meetings between opposition and regional powers revealed by Coordination Commission chair
Deputy PM claims Syria prioritizes cutting off sources of terrorism while supporting Syrian-Syrian dialogue in press conference with Belarusian Foreign Minister
The clinching argument for the cynical pirouette is that a deal with Russia might give some of Assad’s opponents a share of power in Damascus
Fact-finding commission formed to investigate the renewal of passports, after social media campaign called for ambassador Haraki’s dismissal
Lavrov says positive reactions came not only from those who participated in the meeting, but also from opposition figures who did not attend
NCC Member confirms participants of the Coordination Commission did not ‘refuse or accept’ Moscow principles
Refusal comes after content within the draft is said to contradict earlier plans suggested by the UN envoy
Consultative meetings in Moscow end, Syrian government delegation agrees to “Moscow Principles”
Third round of consultative meeting held in Moscow, Syrian government pays tribute to martyrs and victims of terrorism
Syria’s domestic opposition figures express loyalty to Assad, Kurds are placed on back-burner
Opposition representatives in Moscow stress on need to find common ground
Forum program offers insight into conference priorities amid further rumours of opposition infighting
Opposition factions approve 10-point plan based on Geneva 1 communiqué to promote joint transitional body
President Assad to Foreign Affairs Magazine: Israel is supporting terrorist organizations in Syria. President Assad gave an interview to the American magazine Foreign Affairs published on Monday. Following is the full text of the interview, as published by SANA
Recent atrocities committed inside regime facilities are the clearest indication of Assad’s flagrant violation of international humanitarian laws
Israel committed to perpetual war in Syria while Turkey’s relationship with ISIS is bound to mirror that of Pakistan and Al-Qaeda, says Deputy PM Muallem
Opposition Deputy Hisham Marwa is refused an Egyptian visa amid plans to hold opposition meetings in Cairo
Moscow-Washington phone call maintains support for a political resolution to the Syrian crisis
A new document agreed upon by the Coalition details a roadmap for a political solution in Syria just days before Moscow 1 talks
Moscow retracts invite after regime voices concern over attendance of former government employees
BSS President says Syrian talks require ‘real’ sponsorship from Moscow to be successful
President Bashar al-Assad gave an interview to the Czech paper Literarni Noviny. Following is the full text of the interview, as published by SANA
“The United States is particularly concerned about the continued catastrophe that is unfolding in Syria where nearly three-quarters of the entire country are displaced people,” Kerry said
The document suggested forming transitional institutions including “a transitional government” that has the authorities of the president and the prime minister as stipulated by in the current constitution
More opposition parties boycott Moscow 1, causing the regime to consider lowering the attendance of its delegation
“You must know those Russians are responsible for each additional minute the Damascus gang stays in power”
New promises of funding to give Syrian Interim Government financial security
Moscow meetings will not lead to any positive result in favor of the Syrian revolution, only serving to benefit the Syrian regime
Khaled Khoja was elected president in a close vote late Sunday night during a three day meeting of the National Coalition in Istanbul, where it is based
“The dialogue with the regime that Moscow is calling for is out of the question,” the new Etilaf president said at a news conference in Istanbul
A dialogue between Syria’s ‘real’ power brokers is the only way to a meaningful and lasting resolution
Opposition continues to make strides with its “road map” plan prior to Moscow 1
Regime promotes infrastructure investment prior to Moscow-held talks
Government attitudes towards the Russian Syria talks initiative
On de Mistura’s proposed plan Mikdad said that Syria is open to any ideas for fighting terrorism and supporting national reconciliation.
The Russian initiative might be a chance for the Syrian opposition if they were politically skilled and stopped their awful competition
The Iranian official stressed that Moscow’s support to Syria and Iraq is concrete
NCC leader was commenting on rumors of a new round of talks in Moscow
Shaaban says Syria can play a key role in combating terrorism
Every one of us was aware that there was another world that played itself out underground, down in the vaults and dungeons of the regime
The Arab League and its countries are completely absent from the Syrian events
Minister confirms support for national reconciliations and Staffan de Mistura’s initiative for a fighting freeze in the city of Aleppo and the holding of an inter-Syrian dialogue
The parties discussed Russian ideas about holding a Syrian-Syrian dialogue in Moscow
Muallem arrived Wednesday in Sochi city on a two-day visit to Russia
According to Al-Akhbar, Muallem is pessimisic towards the two initiatives
Khatib met defectors in the Turkish camps eager for any sign of hope
Khatib says the main reason for Assad’s survival is the continuous disintegration of the opposition
Renewed divisions emerge after Mouaz al-Khatib’s visit to Moscow
All those who call for negotiations, or to stop the bloodshed and the external interference will end up in a prison, the grave or in exile
Washington is not convinced by the envoy’s “bottom up” approach
The movement’s spokesman says the goal of the alliance is to topple the regime and prove the FSA are not all terrorists
Asharq Al-Awsat speaks with the US State Department’s Daniel Rubinstein about continuing efforts to secure a political solution to the conflict
A conference in Moscow is being prepared in coordination between the Russian Foreign Ministry, the Egyptian authorities and the United Nations Special Envoy to Syria
Khatib denied the attendance of any Iranian delegation in the meetings, or that Walid Jumblatt had a role
Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem spoke to Al-Akhbar unreservedly, and tells the reporter to“publish whatever you see fit from what I said. I will let you judge the situation”
A joint workshop was organized to discuss the state and prospects of bilateral cooperation and set up drafts for future agreements in trade exchange and cooperation in several sectors
Moscow, Tehran and Damascus hope that fighting ISIS will help restore the regime’s legitimacy and Iran also wants a place in the new regional system that is emerging
A decision expected shortly could turn the table of the war
The American president just wanted to relieve the pressure on regional and international allies, and pull the rug out from under his close rivals in the Democratic Party and his Republican rivals on the eve of the midterm elections and nearly two years before the presidential election
Jaafari says there is no coordination between Syria and the U.S.-led alliance against IS
Kerry says U.S. still determined to punish Assad of chemical weapons use
Shaaban is one of the officials banned from visiting EU countries, but Norway is not a member of the Union
the President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition says, the international community — led by the United States — must send Assad a clear message: Continued slaughter will not be tolerated, and a military victory is not possible
Syrians abroad will vote on Wednesday
The move on Thursday was the fourth time Russia and China have blocked U.N. Security Council action on Syria
U.N. Security Council vote on Thursday on a resolution to refer Syria’s civil war to the International Criminal Court
Syria will reciprocate the gift with 20 tons of oranges
The exhausted regime has become completely dependent on its allies
News has circulated about the death of Moallem at the American University Hospital in Beirut, where he has been treated
Lavrov stresses that the Security Council resolution stipulates keeping chemical weapons and components away from “non-governmental” sides
Iranian and Hezbollah advisers are playing a growing role
Lavrov says he expects the disposal of Syria’s chemical weapons to be completed by mid-2014
Nikolay Kozhanov is Professor of Political Economy at St. Petersbourg University
A former employee has revealed details about Hasawani’s identity
U.S. and European policymakers should look beyond the objectives of the Geneva II conference on Syria and implement a comprehensive strategy to push the conflict toward a settlement
Pro-regime demonstrations have been springing up in Damascus, Homs and the coast
The issue of combating terrorism which the regime insisted was addressed to the Americans and the Western world in general, not to the Coalition
Russia points to what they said is hypocrisy in the West over human rights
The Syrian issue was used in the electoral campaign and there is no reason to fear the Republican People’s Party because Turkey is an institutional country
A “new holocaust” is being practiced by the doctors of Assad’s hospitals against Syrians, through the sale of organs to international companies in Moscow
Russia submitted a draft resolution to the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday
Negotiations were held between the Coalition’s team on behalf of Washington, and that of the the regime’s, which only says what Moscow wants
The second round of Geneva negotiations between the delegations of the Syrian regime and the Syrian National Coalition has begun
Jarba headed to Moscow ahead of the second round of peace talks
The U.S. and Russia have agreed on what’s needed, but it is up to the Syrian parties to find out how to get there
Russia and Syria to sign new billion-dollar deals to finance the export of commodities and oil derivatives
Demands include greater representation from the armed and political forces which did not participate in the first round
Western officials are seeking concessions on the delivery of humanitarian aid
Coalition wants to postpone Geneva II talks by two weeks
Russia is prepared to change its position on the Syrian crisis if Assad does not cooperate with the plan to dismantle his chemical arsenal
After the ceremonies in Montreux when the two Syrian delegations, Lakhdar Brahimi, and Jeffrey Feltman go to Geneva to negotiate, the urgent issues will be somewhere else
The Coalition is in crisis after mass resignations
If Geneva II is to be held this January, it would come up with nothing more than initiating a series of fragile, futile negotiations
The meeting of the Coalition on 5,6 January will be held far from media attention
Manna says he will only go to Geneva with a united Syrian opposition
Peace talks between the Syrian regime and opposition next month could open a political path for the “silent majority” of Syrians who support neither side, a former regime spokesman tells says
Russia says it has not changed its position on Syria
U.S. and Russia have a common interest in terms of preventing the fall of Syria into the hands of extremists
Asharq Al-Awsat speaks with Syrian interim government Prime Minister Ahmed Touhmeh about recent developments on the ground in Syria and the upcoming Geneva II peace conference
Putin said in his annual address that Russia’s policy was grounded in reason
Sabra says no decision yet on Coalition attendance at Geneva II
Jamous said there must be dialogue with Russia given its ability to veto resolutions at the Security Council
Assad’s remarks on the situation in Syria came during a meeting on the sidelines of the Arab Parties Conference held in Syria 10 days ago
FSA says conditions are not right to hold the conference
Lavrov said circumstances for the conflict will never be “perfect”
Russia has said they are ready to drop Assad if minorities are protected, sources say
Lavrov says he believes the Syrian opposition is beginning to take a more “realistic” position
Mikdad says it won’t be difficult for Syrians to reach and agreement to end violence and stop the bloodshed
Reports say that the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon would announce the date on November 25
Was Washington convinced by Moscow that the military exposure and defeat of President Bashar al-Assad’s opponents will push them to practice realism and accept the best possible option
Rising Kurdish assertiveness in Syria puts Turkey in a particularly tough position as it tries to make peace on its own soil with PKK
The coalition agreed to take part in the conference on the basis of a transfer of power to a transitional ruling authority with full powers,
Moscow claimed it was awaiting the Coalition’s reponse
ACU chief says delegation related to aid delivery only
Speaking exclusively to Asharq Al-Awsat, Qadri Jamil denies claims he was proposed as a potential replacement to Assad by the Russians
Since domestic consumption is increasing (258,000 barrels per day in early 2011), Syria was forced to import some petroleum products
Reports say Syrian Deputy Prime Minister Qadri Jamil has taken an open vacancy in Moscow
Economist analyst Adnan Abdulrazzak writes for The Syrian Observer on the regime’s efforts to show that Syria is capable to control its economic difficulties
Feltman tells Raghida Dergham not holding the Geneva 2 conference means that Assad will be running in the next presidential election
A “political solution” in Syria equates between victims and oppressors, and in fact prefers the latter and seeks to perpetuate their actions and protect them from being held to account
Those who want to go to Geneva are linking the conference’s fate to the position that will be adopted by the United States, as though they were wishful to test this position once again
The spokesman stressed that the negotiation would be to hand over power to a transitional government
Russia says that Geneva 2 is to be held toward the end of next November
The Russian and American positions would not survive even the most cursory examination
FSA’s chief of staff, General Salim Idris, admitted to a “lack of material resources necessary to create a unified body”
The worst case scenario overcome by the regime is that it is no longer required to account for its use of WMDs against civilians through a clear and blatant violation of all international laws and human and ethical considerations
The options available to the top leaders in Iran, Iraq, and Russia are moving toward a few shared priorities
The Syrian National Council threatens to leave the Coalition if the latter goes to Geneva II
Syrian Air operates weekly domestic flights
It is rare that President Bashar al-Assad gives interviews to Syrian newspapers
Source says Russia insists Assad must run in elections
Pushkov said Russia cooperated on the Libyan issue and the results were well-known
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Russia is currently analysing the data
Lavrov says disagreements are on the implementation, not the principle
That target is toppling Assad, not punishing him, and this possibility has come closer
The target is toppling Assad, not punishing him, and this possibility has come closer
A statement issued Wednesday said the Russian initiative was on the right track to end Western pretexts for aggression
Moallem said Syria welcomed the Russian initiative as a way to preserve Syrian lives and infrastructure.
Mouallem’s statement followed Russia’s surprise proposal Monday to secure Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile
Moallem extended greetings to the American people for their awareness and support for Syria against the war
This argument continues in the West on legal matters while Syria and the region witness one of the biggest crimes of the century
In exclusive interview airing Monday, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says his allies may respond if he was attacked
Analysts say former Syrian Defense Minister Ali Habib will have an important role in the negotiations
Putin said Russia will act decisively if the use of chemical weapons was proved
Three Russian warships have crossed the Turkish Bosphorous
Sources report the Shiite organization recruited 10,000 fighters tasked with defending the Syrian capital
The talks will focus on an all-encompassing consideration of all aspects of the situation in and around Syria
Sergey Vershinin says the G20 Summit will help put the crisis back on the political path
Israeli regime carried out missile test to test Syrian air defence?
if the Congress members decide to respect their voters’ wishes, this would mean the turning of the page of the strike
America has waged many wars, but has never been able to achieve its political objectives from any of them: Assad
Iran believes the alleged gas attack in Ghouta was carried out by terrorists
The Syrian army believed that what happened in Ghouta was a media war, following an official justification classifying yesterday’s massacres as being mere images carried by channels “that are partners in the bloodshed” affecting the Syrian people
Member of a human rights council says the refugees may be executed as soon as they arrive in Syria
Pro government websites describe the Saudi efforts as a bribe
For Syrians, traveling to any given destination in the world is more complicated than ever
Russia is continuing communication with representatives of the Syrian government and all groups of the opposition to convince everybody to accept the Russian-U.S. initiative
Russia wanted to affirm that Russia today is different from that Russia which stood helpless when its Serbian ally was disciplined
Annan was speaking at the launch of his new book in Moscow
President Bashar al-Assad gave an interview to the local newspaper al-Thawra, in which he claimed that his opponents have “used up all their tools” and failed to overthrow his regime
Russia has offered to replace Austrian peacekeepers in the Glolan
U.N. envoy says report omits important developments in the Syrian Golan
The King of Jordan speaks to Asharq Al-Awsat on the Syrian crisis and its impact on Jordan and the Middle East
The efforts to postpone a political solution in Syria only indicate that we will see this game of cat and mouse once again
Russia says ball now in the opposition court after regime accepts participation in conference
Arab League Secretary-General says Geneva II will likely take place in July
What is truly suspicious is the emergence of American signs pointing to the toppling of the balance of power in a way rendering it unlikely to see President Al-Assad stepping down in the near future
Haitham Maleh says Yemeni Houthis entered Syria through Lebanon and were accompanied by Hezbollah
Long-term, the Vice President of the Brookings Insitute said some kind of no-fly zone would need to be imposed
Now with the regime using Scud missiles and chemical weapons, it has become too late to even demand no-fly zones
Russian President Vladimir Putin says his Syrian counterpart could have Avoided war by implementing reforms
Obama chose the wrong stance in syria and allowed the Assad regime, along with the Iranians and Hezbollah, to besiege the popular uprising until it became a danger to the region
Official says any new transition government in Syria will have full authority over the Syrian army and security forces.
Al-Nusra has become a big necessity for all parties concerned, except for the Syrian people who wish to see the immediate cessation of the massacre
President Bashar al-Assad has said Syria would be willing to attend peace talks with the opposition in principle, but any subsequent deal would have to be approved by a referendum. The Syrian Observer republishes the interview as translated and published by SANA
Lavrov says the National coalition does not want dialogue and its demand regarding Assad’s departure is impractical
All4Syria website published parts of an article published by the Guardian on a visit of an Israeli delegation to Moscow, as a last-ditch attempt to talk the Kremlin out of supplying sophisticated anti-aircraft missiles to the Assad regime
Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal says in Moscow Syria appreciated the constructive efforts by Russia to solve the crisis and put an end to the violence by working towards the national dialogue.
Syrian press editorials today lashed on Qatar and Turkey, as we;; as the “American backtracking” on the commitments it offered at the first meeting in Moscow
Syria’s U.N. envoy, Bashar al-Jaafari said Wednesday the draft resolution on Syria submitted to the U.N. General Assembly aims to inflame the current crisis.
For analysts familiar with the politics of Syria, the country’s descent into chaos amounts to an all-too-predictable pattern. It also parallels what Rami Makhlouf, a major regime figure and first cousin of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, bluntly announced that, among other things, Syrians faced the Assad regime or domestic and regional chaos.
Israel is worried about the possible delivery of Russian S-300 anti-aircraft missiles to Syria, and Netanyahu will visit Moscow soon to stop the transfer
Russian and Egyptian foreign ministers agree dialogue between the government and the opposition groups must be initiated, and
The Syrian government is sending several messages to Russia, the U.S. and the its loyalists inside the country.
Syria says the US Ambassador to Damascus Robert Ford reportedly issued instructions from the Obama administration to the members of the opposition “National Coalition of Doha” to join political efforts
Many political commentators have attempted to discern Israel’s real reasons for the dual strike it launched on military targets in Syria at the end of last week.
Secretary of State Kerry chose to recognize in Kremlin the existence of “significant common interests with respect to Syria” for both the American and Russian sides, thus reassuring Putin that the end of the war will only be secured through dual sponsorship – whose lines are drawn by Washington and Moscow – and that the Libya experience will not be reiterated as promised by Obama and repeated by NATO on many occasions.
Syrian press editorials expressed the regime’s suspicion of the US Secretary of State John Kerry.
Israeli political sources say the United States dealt a severe blow to armed groups operating in Syria after it accepted Russian conditions to solve the crisis in the country.
Israeli political sources say the United States dealt a severe blow to armed groups operating in Syria after it accepted Russian conditions to solve the crisis in the country.
The American-Russian negotiations over Syria have reached an advanced stage, but the new agreement still lacks the teeth to achieve results, a political scholar specialized in Syrian affairs said during between American Secretary of State John Kerry and his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov.
With the acceleration of recent events in the context of the blessed Syrian revolution, the Muslim Brotherhood in Syria addresses this statement to the Syrian, Arab and Muslim people, and to free people everywhere, to clarify events and outline our position and responsibilities.
The overtures of Syrian official newspapers dealt with the Israeli aggression on Syria, here are extracts from these overtures:
“The US successive administrations recognize that Syria is not a playground for their policies,” Syria’s Information Minister Minister says in Moscow
It is no simple matter either for Moaz al-Khatib to sit at the summit, in front of the revolution’s flag rather than the flag of the Syrian Arab republic, which we have known for decades. Likewise, it is no simple matter that none of the leaders of the delegation left the hall this time.
There is a complete lack of trust between the two sides, the opposition and the regime, and building such trust will require a great deal of time and effort.
Lavrov: I wish that the US would realize the need for doing everything to get the Geneva statement applied.
In light of the absence of any signs pointing to an imminent military settlement or political solution, the opposition has no choice but to go back to the Syrian domestic scene and rely on its political and military powers to even out the balance of powers and impose the solution wanted by the Syrians.
The Kremlin announced that the political program proposed by President Bashar al-Assad could be a good basis for solving the crisis in Syria
Bashar before anyone else realizes that his dictatorial regime encompasses all the reasons for its own downfall, from the bloodthirsty and brutal acts, the assassinations, torture, sectarianism and corruption, and the looting of the country’s wealth.
As much as the series of Russian statements towards the Syrian crisis can be described as being confused, it is obvious that they are following a clear and steady thin line. Firstly, there is no need to note the much overdue change which affected Moscow’s position towards the opposition, especially the National Coalition. It attacked its formation more than one month ago, just as it attacked the opposition abroad for a long time and in a manner going in line with the stand adopted by the regime in Damascus.
A Russian warship carrying a marines unit has left its Black Sea port for Syria amid preparations for a possible evacuation of nationals living and working in the strife-torn country, news reports said Sunday.
Al-Hayat Newspaper learned that Mikdad had traveled to Moscow to convey Syria’s ‘conservations on a number of the points in Librahimi’s plan.” Moscow “prefers to wait until it hears the details of Librahimi plan from him” in personm. But SANA reports that the Russian FM reiterated Russia’s support to a peaceful solution in Syria and renewed Russia’s known position on Geneva statement, affirming that there is no change in the Russian stance on Syria. AP focuses on Librahimi’s call for the formation of a transitional government with “full executive powers” to run the country until new elections can be held.
The Russian foreign ministry said Lakhdar Brahimi will hold talks in Moscow on Saturday following consultations with President Bashar Assad’s regime in Damascus, at his request.
There is nothing so dangerous as a former superpower unaware of its own diminished role. What the Kremlin of Vladimir Putin today lacks in ideology, it more than makes up for in invidious posturing.
while Russia’s Putin reiterates Moscows differences with the EU over the situation in Syria, President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, calss for efforts to reach a political solution to the crisis in Syria
Rebels began to push into a strategic town in Syria’s central Hama province on Thursday and laid siege to at least one town dominated by President Bashar al-Assad’s minority sect, riskinginflaming already raw sectarian tensions as the 21-month-old revolt against four decades of Assad family rule
