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American NGO Says Austin Tice Still Alive

“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.

Assigning Mohammed al-Bashir to Head Transitional Syrian Government

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.

Damascus: The Danger will Spread to Other Countries

Syria reiterated that the threat of terrorism is not confined to any one country, but instead spreads across borders with the aim of creating chaos and destruction, al-Watan writes.

Lavrentiev Comments Israeli Military Moves Towards Syria

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.”

Is Assad Realigning His Position?

Evident signs of Assad’s shift toward the “axis of moderation” emerged after the Manama summit in May 2024, Shawkat Gharzeldin writes in al-Araby al-Jadeed.

A New European Envoy Destined for Failure

Syrians brace for inevitable disappointment as Europe appears to bend to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s pressure for a shift in EU policy toward the Damascus regime, Ali Safar writes in Syria TV.

Harris, Trump, and Ourselves

Trump’s approach to Syria has been marked by volatility and an inconsistent strategy, Wael Sawah writes in +963 Media.

What Reasons for Russian Escalation in Northern Syria?

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 Constitutional Committee On the Way

The strongest indication of renewed activity came from Russian envoy Alexander Lavrentiev, Abdulmunem Issa writes in the pro-government al-Watan.

Al-Assad Was Absent from Nasrallah’s Speech

It is evident that the Iranian axis is not willing to sacrifice the Syrian regime to protect the Hamas movement, according to Ibrahim Rayhan in Syria TV.

Moscow Monitors F-35 Fighter Jets in Syria

The Russian Reconciliation Center in Syria has reported another violation of Syrian airspace by the United States, Athr Press writes.

“Astana Finale” Outlines New Format & Place

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.

Assad Puts Syria for Sale

Assad may be unable to sell Syria to the Russians, Satae Noureddine writes in an op-ed to al-Modon.

Who Spoiled the Surprise in Moscow?

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.

Will Assad Visit Moscow?

Assad’s last visit to Russia was in September 2021, according to al-Souria Net.

No to the Rehabilitation of Criminals

A group of Syrian and Lebanese intellectuals and politicians have released a joint statement denouncing the efforts of certain Arab governments to normalize relations with Damascus.

New Israeli-Russian Agreement on Syria

Netanyahu said he agreed with Putin to avoid any military confrontation in Syrian airspace, Baladi News says.

Cavusoglu Could Meet Mekdad Late January

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said the meeting between the defense ministers of Syria, Russia and Turkey was “useful”, according to Enab Baladi.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Israeli strike on Syria, Turkey targets Hassakeh, and religious fatwa against migration. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

U.S. criticizes Assad and Hamas, Israeli aggression on Damascus, Lebanon to negotiate maritime borders with Syria. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

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

Shaaban: China and Russia Stood With Syria

The Special Presidential Adviser to the Presidency said that Russia and China are standing up to a NATO-dominated world, according to al-Watan.

Mekdad, Lavrov Hold Talks in Moscow

Mekdad met his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, to discuss cooperation between the two countries, according to SANA.

Assad Saves Us from a Terrible Choice

Robert Ford argues that justice for all makes the political solution an even more distant process, in an op-ed to Asharq al-Awsat.

Jordan PM Denies Secret Talks with Syrian Regime

The Prime Minister of Jordan Bisher al-Khasawneh denied on Tuesday that the kingdom had opened secret channels of communication with the Syrian regime, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.

Russia Plan to Destabilize Eastern Syria

Russia has planned to destabilize the northern and eastern parts of Syria in order to expand its influence there, according to al-Hal Net.

Israel Launches Airstrikes on Damascus

Israel carried out airstrikes on the Syrian capital and drones targetted Iranian positions in Deir-ez-Zor, according to North Press.

US Priorities in Syria Don’t Include Iran Withdrawal

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

China expresses support to Syria, Iran evacuates base fearful of an Israeli attack, and racist attack in Turkey. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Putin and Bennett Agree to Drive Iran Out of Syria

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.

Israeli Drone Bombs Hezbollah Positions in Quneitra

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.

Russia Expands its Presence to Syrian-Jordanian Border

By establishing itself again as the sponsor of settlement agreements in southern Syria, Russia was able to consolidate its influence in the Jordanian border area, according to Asharq al-Awsat.

Erdogan Discusses Turkey-Russia Ties with Putin

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan discussed with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, regional developments and bilateral relations, according to the Daily Sabah.

Erdogan Reveals Details of Meeting with Putin on Syria

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.

For the Third Time, Russia Targets National Army

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.

Daraa Migrants Arrive in Rural Aleppo

A group of eight young men from Daraa, exiled by the regime to Northern Syria, have arrived at their destination, according to Syria TV.

A Russian Landing in Syria

The recent Russian delegation that visited Damascus, by its size and its nature, resembles the landing of a foreign power, according to al-Modon.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Syria and the ‘American Test’ for Russia

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.

Biden Criticized for Leniency on Syria

Members of the US congress are criticizing the Biden administration for not imposing new sanctions on the Syrian regime, and even lifting those imposed on a prominent pro-Assad businessman, according to Asharq al-Awsat.

How is Moscow-Washington Tension Affecting Syria?

Tensions between Washington and Moscow will have various repercussions for Syria, writes Marwan Qabalan for Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Russia Is Reshaping the Country’s Future

As the main foreign influence in Syria, Russia now has a considerable role in shaping the country’s future.

Moscow Offers Helping Hand to Assad, Wife

The Kremlin’s spokesperson has offered assistance to Bashar Al-Assad and his wife, who have been struck with COVID-19, writes Etihad Press.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

What if Abdah, Hariri Were to Learn from Navalny

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.

Mikdad: Assad Will not Leave Power Whatever Happens

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Turkey Calls for Assad Removal from Power

As a conference on the return of refugees gets underway in Damascus, President Erdogan has called for the removal of Assad from power writes Nedaa Syria.

US, Russia at Odds over Syrian Refugee Conference

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.

Will Turkey Launch a New Operation Against SDF?

Turkey might launch an attack against the Syrian Democratic Forces and finish its leftover business from Operation Peace Spring reports Baladi News.

US-Syria Relations Over the Years

Donald Trump could be voted out office, but looking back, his actions in Syria have had a lasting impact that will continue to shape future US policy writes Baladi News.

Why US Elections Present Syrians With a Complex Dilemma

With just days to go until the US presidential election, Syrian are wondering what each candidate will mean for them and the future of their country reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Putin, Erdogan Discuss Conflicts in Libya and Syria

On a phone call, President Vladimir Putin and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan discussed recent issues as well as the ongoing situation in Libya writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

Assad Meets with Russian Delegation

During their meeting, the two sides discussed on-going developments in the country and preparations for the upcoming round of the Constitutional Committee writes SANA.

Astana Guarantors Set Out Their Priorities in Syria

The guarantors of the Astana process have held a video meeting to discuss ongoing issues in Syria and to reaffirm their commitment to the country’s political unity and territorial integrity writes Alsouria Net.

Russian Military Comes Under Attack in Idleb

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.

Russia’s Biggest Challenge in Syria

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.

Turkish Armored Vehicles Enter Idleb

Turkey has moved more military vehicles into Idleb, with it believed that they will take part in the joint patrols with Russia reports Smart News.

Syrian MP Insults Putin, Refuses to Apologize

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.

Assad Forces Violate Ceasefire in Idleb

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.

Russian Airstrike Kills 16 Displaced in Idleb

Hours before a meeting between the presidents of Russia and Turkey, a center for the displaced people of Syria was hit by an airstrike, killing 16 reports Zaman Al Wasl.

Will the Moscow Summit Create a Syrian Gaza in Idleb?

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.

Russia Airstrikes Kill Ten Civilians in Idleb

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.

Idleb Update

The bloody push and pull between the regime and Turkey-backed forces continues in Idleb, with losses on both sides reports Alsouria Net.

Syria May Be the Test Case for Russia’s Influence

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.

Four Syrian Rebels Killed in Libya

Despite denials about their presence in Libya, reports have emerged about the death of four Syrian fighters from the Syrian National Army reports Zaman Al Wasl.

Russia Disavows Leaked Video of Beheading

A gruesome video, which shows Russian torturing and beheading a Syrian man, raised questions about the actions of Wagner, the Russian private military company reports Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Clashes between Turkey and the regime, talks between Turkey and Russia, terrorist numbers in Idleb and a US women who wants to go home. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Assad’s Forces Expand Deployment in Hassakeh

Regime forces have expanded their presence in Hassakeh and their has been discussion of them continuing their advance into the oil-rich Rumailan area reports Alsouria Net.

Bashar al-Assad Is President!

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.

SDF Agrees to Sochi Deal for Northern Syria

The Syrian Democratic Forces have announced that they will withdraw their forces from the border region, in accordance with the Russian and Turkish agreement reports Alsouria Net.

Trump and Putin Planned What Happened Hand in Hand

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.

Erdogan in a Syria Divided Into Three Norths

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.

Trump’s Syria Legacy

The decision by Donald Trump to withdraw US forces from Syria has left a vacuum in the country that will be filled and fought over by other countries writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Has the Sultan Learned From the Tsar?

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.

A Season of Diplomatic Pilgrimages to Damascus Approaches

A handshake between Ahmed Aboul Gheit and Walid al-Muallem has led to speculation that some Arab countries are ready to restore relations with Damascus writes Al-Watan.

Turkish, Russian Presidents Meet in Moscow on Syria

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.

Regime Forces Use Internationally Prohibited Weapons

While the regime uses internationally banned phosphorus bombs in the western Jisr al-Shughur countryside, their attack was repelled in al-Kabana in Lattakia reports Al-Etihad.

Moscow and the Game of Tracks

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Heavy casualties following weekend clashes, reconstruction finds being diverted, Putin calls for the elimination of all opposition groups and Palestinians tortured in Assad prisons. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Mhardeh: Russia Protects Us, Not the Regime

The residents of Mhardeh have found themselves between the regime and opposition fighters, but they are looking to Russia to protect them reports Al-Modon.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Continued attacks in Idleb, anger over international inaction, Turkish and Russian talks and refugees returning from Lebanon. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Idleb: Political Escalation in Parallel

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.

Has the Sochi Deal Collapsed?

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A Syrian Facebook, Russian reticence about an Idleb assault, a halt to the registration of refugees in Germany and Syrians arrested in Lebanon. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Russia Secures Tartous Port for the Next 49 Years

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Russia Hands Over Remains of Israeli Soldier

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.

Who Is Besieging Turkey in Idleb: Russia or America?

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.

The Rebuilding of Syria and Conflicting Interests

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.

Six Problems for Assad

Despite Bashar al-Assad now being in control of the large majority of the country, his problems are far from over writes Alsouria Net.

Trump “100 Percent” Favors Keeping US Troops in Syria

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 Proposes Amendments to the Constitution

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.

Russia’s disregard for Assad

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.

US Pastor: Putin Saved Assad and Defeated the West

Dr. Chuck Baldwin has warned US President Donald Trump against using private mercenaries in Syria once America pulls out its troops writes The Syria Times.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Leaders of Turkey, Russia, Iran to Meet for Syria Summit

The fourth trilateral summit between Turkey, Russia and Iran will explore the ongoing violence in Idleb and the formation of the constitutional committee reports Anadolu Agency.

Muallem and Pedersen Meet in Tehran

The two diplomats meet in Tehran to discuss the constitutional committee and the upcoming summit that will be held in Russia writes Al-Watan.

Turkey’s Buffer Zone Faces Opposition

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 “Good Assad”

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.

Who Will Pay the Price?

Following the announced withdrawal of US forces from Syria, other parties are scrambling to come up a strategy writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.

Turkey’s Path Blocked in Idleb

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.

Istanbul Talks Exclude the Opposition

As European leaders meet to discuss Syria, they have acknowledged the victory of the Syrian government and are working to be included in the reconstruction writes Damas Post.

US: Syria Summit Took ‘Huge Steps’ Toward Ending War

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.

Syria’s Solution Rug

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A summit in Istanbul, Syrian determination to retake Idleb, opposition refusal to change clocks and casualties in Idleb. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Syrian Air Force Investigates Downing of Russian Plane

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.

Heras al-Deen Reject the Idleb Agreement

Heras al-Deen are the first group to publicly reject the Idleb agreement, while Hayyat Tahrir al-Sham have not made an official statement reports Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

The meeting between the Presidents of Turkey, Russia and Iran dominated the news over the weekend

What Happened Over the Weekend

Saudi funding, the ending of aid, US airstrikes and condemnation at the UN. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Will Assad Move on Idleb?

As operations in Daraa near their end, Idleb ponders its future writes Souriatna

The Syrian ‘Deal of the Century’

All eyes are on Helsinki and the upcoming summit between Trump and Putin writes Asharq al-Awsat

What 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

Southern Syria’s Fate: Settlement or Battle?

While there has been numerous statements and agreements made, the picture of what is to come in southern Syria is still unclear writes Sada al-Sham

Southern Syria’s Fate: Settlement or Battle?

While there have been numerous statements and agreements made, the picture of what is to come in southern Syria is still unclear writes Sada al-Sham

Israel Paves the Way for Assad to Move South

Israel has agreed not to interfere with military operation on the border, in exchange for a withdrawal of Iranian backed forces writes Enab Baladi

Opinion: Airstrikes to Curb Russia

The Western strikes on Syria have shown Russia, Iran and the regime there is no true victory ahead of them, Ammar Dioub writes

Anger in Damascus Over Sochi’s Closing Statement

The official Syrian media’s distortion of the conference’s closing statement is evidence of its discontent, Ibrahim Hamidi writes

Opinion: Beyond Imperialism!

Political advisor to the Syrian president writes that U.S. economic strength is based primarily on the creation of perpetual war

Opinion: Why Would Assad Concede?

Veteran opposition figure Michel Kilo says the Assad regime is trying to derail Geneva by continuing to lay waste to opposition areas

Opinion: Then Who Was Defeated in the Syrian War?

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

Kennedy Paid With His Life. Will Trump Succeed?

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

Paris Preparing ‘New Initiative’ on Syria

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

Opinion: Syrian De-Escalation Zones Are Only Ink on a Map

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

Opinion: Trump Is Forced to Be Serious

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

Putin Congratulates Syria on Its Independence Day

Russia will continue to support a peaceful settlement and protect Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity against the international forces of terrorism and extremism, Putin tells Assad in cable, state media reports

Opinion: Consequences of the American Strike in Syria

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

U.S. Strikes Put Syria at a Crossroads: Beginning of Political Settlement or De Facto Division?

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

Moscow Discusses Syria Safe Zones With Damascus

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

Opinion: The Search for Syria

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

Assad: The Government Can Execute Anyone Legally

Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad denied Amnesty reports on mass killing in a Syrian prison and said President Donald Trump’s ban on Syrians targeted terrorists, not the Syrian people. Below is the full interview he gave to French TF1 TV and EUROPE 1 Radio as appeared in SANA, the Syrian news agency

The Gates of Hell Open Up in Northern Syria

Lebanese website Al-Modon comments on the fracturing of opposition forces in Syria’s northern provinces as internal fighting forces factions to side with one of the two main rebel groups, Ahrar al-Sham or Al-Qaeda’s affiliate Jabhat Fateh al-Sham

Russia in the Syrian Conflict: From Participant to Referee?

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.

Opinion: Why Idleb?

What does Donald Trump have to do with Iran and Russia’s insistence that rebel fighters be evacuated to Idleb exclusively, even though areas of the Damascus countryside under opposition control are much closer? Walid Bunni explains

Opinion: Trump, Like Putin and Assad, Does Not See People in Syria

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

Opinion: Why All This Brutality in Aleppo?

The push by Assad and his allies to achieve decisive victories before the end of Obama’s term, and the beginning of an unpredictable Trump presidency, could explain the brutality which they are employing against Aleppo, the Damascus countryside, and the eastern and western Ghoutas

Obama, Khamenei, Assad Share Cautious Optimism on Trump Presidency

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

Assad: Can Trump Deliver What He Promised?

Syrian President Bashar al Assad said on Tuesday Damascus would have to “wait and see” if U.S. President-elect Donald Trump would change Washington’s policy on Syria but that he was ready to cooperate with him in fighting militants. Following is the full text, as published in SANA

Opinion: Aleppo and the Ring of Fire

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?

Statement: NCC Calls For Revival of Truce in Light of Escalations in Aleppo

“Committee believes it is necessary to revive the truce once more in Aleppo and elsewhere and remove the fighters of Jabhat Fateh al-Sham and permit international organizations to enter the eastern districts, and to bring out wounded and sick and treat them”

Opinion: Russia’s Predicament in Aleppo

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

Assad Says WWIII is In the Air

The Syrian President Bashar al-Assad claimed in an interview to Russia’s Komsomolskaya Pravda newspaper that the smell of WWIII is in the air. Following is the full text, as published by SANA, the official news agency.

What Hasn’t Obama Done to Save Bashar?

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

Opinion: There is a Solution for Syria in Hangzhou

If what we hear is true, the solution is based on acknowledging the status quo and surrendering to the rule of the current regime despite the killing, destruction and displacement that it has carried out over the last five years.

American Tidings: The Syrian War Continues

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

Is There an American-Russian Deal for Syria?

Russia and Iran’s militias launched a heavy assault on Aleppo last month, allowing Iranian forces and allied Iraqi and Lebanese sectarian militias, as well as what remains of the Syrian army still loyal to Assad, to impose a siege on eastern Aleppo

US Proposal to Russia Links Fighting Nusra Front and Ceasefire With Political Transition

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

President Obama Does Not Want To See

Obama has taken care to place blame for Syria’s disasters on everyone except himself while his assertion that “America is safer” is no longer true

Aleppo: A City That Refuses to Die

“Aleppo: The Rise and Fall of Syria’s Great Merchant City,” Philip Mansel, 238 pages, I.B. Tauris, London, 2016

What Is The Russian Withdrawal Hiding?

Moscow’s role in Syria was an attempt to draw attention to their strength following the fall of the Soviet Union, and therefore to their influential role at the head of the new world hierarchy

Kerry Has Become No More Than An Aide to Lavrov

“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?”

Opinion: Syria – a Study in International Cynicism

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

Five Obstacles for the Security Council’s Syria Resolution

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

Russian Air Strikes Kill 43 People in Idleb City

Rescue workers confirm 43 killed and 150 injured in attacks on a number of areas, including a busy marketplace, adding that at least 30 more bodies remained unidentified

‘Britain’s Air Strikes Are Doomed to Fail’: Assad

In an interview with The Sunday Times, Syria’s president, Bashar al-Assad, warns that bombing will increase the risk of terrorist attacks by sleeper cells in Europe unless there is a concerted effort to destroy ISIS on the ground. The following is the full text of the interview, as published by SANA.

Opinion: What If Putin Succeeds in Syria?

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

Opinion: How Assad Can Be Kept in Office

Is Moscow truly capable of offering real guarantees that the current regime will not rise once again, in a new form?

Iranian Development and Ethnic Cleansing: Shaping a ‘Useful’ Syria

“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”

Opinion: The Russians Are Saving Assad from Iran

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

Opinion: Iran at a Fork in the Road on Syria

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

Halki: US-Led Action in Syria Counterproductive

Coalition’s aerial campaign not coordinated with the Syrian government and has deviated from its stated goals of fighting terrorism, says prime minister

Syria’s Friends and Enemies Share Fears of Regime Collapse

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

The Myth of Syria’s Recovery

What new developments have led some to conclude the Syrian crisis is on its way to a solution?

A Letter to Those Attending Moscow 1

“You must know those Russians are responsible for each additional minute the Damascus gang stays in power”

Syria: One Year Later

A column in honor of the one-year anniversary of Syria’s chemical attack

Is Army Day Still a Day for All Syrians?

Only a few days before the national celebration, the terrorist group Daesh brutally killed dozens of soldiers belonging to the 17th troop in the vicinity of Raqqa city

Alawite to Lead Transition Phase

Russia has said they are ready to drop Assad if minorities are protected, sources say

Opinion: The Great Bear slips up again

Putin’s Russia has lost in Syria, because it overlooked the fact that the Syrian people will defeat the Assad regime

Aleppo Battle: Bulk Complicity

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

Opinion: The Syrian Regime and International Intersection

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

Weekend: It is the dictator, stupid!

The Syrian opposition and the Syrian public had contradictory feelings regarding both the American strike against the Assad regime

Russia Trying to Avoid War: Lavrov

Moallem extended greetings to the American people for their awareness and support for Syria against the war

The Syrian Shrapnel

Russia wanted to affirm that Russia today is different from that Russia which stood helpless when its Serbian ally was disciplined

King Abdullah II: The view from Amman

The King of Jordan speaks to Asharq Al-Awsat on the Syrian crisis and its impact on Jordan and the Middle East

Opinion: Will Cannibals govern Syria?

Two groups threaten the future of Syria: some of the rebels inside Syria, and the political opposition outside the country

Opinion: Obama's Disappointing Abandonment

The US has political and geostrategic interests in the Middle East but Obama, with his huge failure to pressure Putin, reflects an abandonment of these interests

Opinion: When the Russian Baath Scolds Damascus

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

Opinion: Syria Conference and Middle Ground Solution Formula

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.

Stances on the Syrian Crisis Redraw the Map of the Region

Headlines describing the 24th Arab Summit held in Doha this week reflect profound division over Syria and Qatar’s role in effecting change in the Arab Region. Doha has taken over the presidency of the Arab league for what could be one of the most important years of the transitional period.

Brahimi to Hold Talks on Syria in Moscow Saturday

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.

The guessing-game of Russian intentions

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.

Putin and Rompuy call for a need for Political Solution in Syria

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

Syrian rebels fight for strategic town in Hama province

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

The Damage Done by Playing for Time

The damage done by playing for time has extended to areas outside Syria in the last two months. The members of the alliance supporting Assad, from Russia and Iran to Lebanon, have found the opportunity to play off the regional situation; they have taken steps, whose importance varies one country to another.