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Sharaa in Washington: A Historic Event, Yet…

True reconstruction requires a stable and secure domestic environment, a legislative framework attractive to foreign investors, modern banking regulations, robust anti-corruption measures, and equitable implementation of national projects, Faisal Alloush argues in Ultra Syria.

The Caesar Act: Sanctions, Impact, and the Path Forward

The return of refugees and transitional justice remain unresolved issues that prevent the lifting of sanctions, Matt Zweig, one of the lawmakers behind the Caesar act, told Al-Majalla.

Ahmad al-Awda – The Power Broker of Southern Syria

Western analysts and regional observers have speculated that al-Awda could emerge as a counterweight to Syria’s new rulers, particularly given his previous ties to Russia and his potential backing from regional players like the UAE and Jordan

Sharaa Has Asked Moscow to Hand Over Bashar al-Assad

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

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.

Kremlin Source Reveals Where Assad Fled

“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”

How the World Reacted to the Fall of Assad

The Iranian Foreign Ministry blamed Assad for not resisting. 

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.

How the Turks View Aleppo

Turkish society has historically viewed Aleppo as an extension of Anatolia, Ahmed Ghannam says in al-Araby al-Jadeed.

Déjà Vu in Syria: A New Chapter in an Old Story

Like many oppressed peoples, Syrians cling to fleeting moments of triumph that momentarily lift their spirits after years of despair, Wael Sawah argues in Daraj.

Bad News: Iran is Not Going Anywhere in 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.

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 Tour of the Syrian Astana Track Next Week

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.

Who Rules Southern Syria?

Iran’s alleged aim to establish a drug trafficking corridor targeting Israel and Jordan has only intensified local resistance, 963 media writes.

Russian Naval Officer Dies in Syria

Russia announced on Monday the death of a naval officer in Syria, though the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, Syria TV writes.

Assad and Jumping Between Boats

It seems likely that Israel will not be content with its limited ground incursion into Syria, al-Modon writes.

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.

SDF Surrounds Syrian Regime’s Security Squares in Hassakeh

Media sources close to the SDF indicated that the blockade was intended to prevent militants from Assad’s militias from escaping to support armed robbery gangs in southern Hassakeh, Shaam Network writes.

Israeli Shelling Targets Homs Industrial City

The industrial city of Hisyah, located in the countryside of Homs, was subjected to Israeli shelling on Sunday.  Amer Khalil, the director of the industrial

First Syrian Death in Ukraine War

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.

Five-Point Lebanon Plan on Syrian Refugees

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s team has prepared a five-point plan for Syrian refugees, which was presented to the cabinet during a session on Wednesday,

The US Elections in Syrian Calculations

If Trump wins, US interest in Syria may wane, leaving the Syrian issue to Israeli-Russian agreements, Abdul Basit Sida writes in Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Syrian Air Seeks to Acquire Russian Passenger Planes

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.

Has the Assassination Phase Begun in Suweida?

Civil activist Rawad Sadiq survived an assassination attempt yesterday afternoon while travelling from Suweida to the town of Al-Kafr on his motorcycle, Syria TV reports.

SDF Arrests Secretary of Baath Party Hassakeh Branch

In June, a source revealed to the Syria TV website that the SDF is heading to escalate against the Syrian regime “in response to contacts and rapprochement between the regime and Turkey.”

Sources: Pedersen in Damascus Next March

Sources informed pro-government daily Al-Watan that Geir Pedersen has requested an appointment to visit Damascus in February.

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.

Astana 21: Seeking to Rebuild Lost Trust

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.

Investment in Northern Syria as a Turkish Interest

The investment conference aligns with the Turkish government’s narrative of fostering a sustainable development environment in northern Syria, according to al-Tareek.

Damascus and its Kurds: America’s Syndrome!

Given that the U.S. presence is vital for the survival of the AANES, the prospect of withdrawal leaves the entire issue uncertain Akil Mahfouz writes in Athr Press.

Israeli Raid Near Damascus

The Israeli airstrike specifically targeted a farm situated in the Sayeda Zeinab area of the Damascus countryside, according to Athr Press.

The Suweida Mouvement Seen from Up Close

Syrians are holding onto hope that the movement unfolding in the city of Suweida will serve as a beacon of change, Ali Safar writes in Syria TV

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.

A Step Toward Damascus-Ankara Reconciliation

The complementarity of Iranian and Russian roles in the Syrian-Turkish reconciliation file is evident, Munzer Eid writes in the pro-government al-Watan.

Did HTS Arrest Qahtani On Charges of Treason?

Communication between Qahtani and the international coalition occurred with the knowledge and approval of HTS leadership, according to Syria TV.

Emerging from Syria’s Rubble: An Analysis

Assad’s recent televised interview with Sky News Arabia has raised intriguing questions about the source of his self-assured demeanour, according to Sateh Noureddine in al-Modon.

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.

What is Mekdad Doing in Tehran?

Mekdad’s visit to Tehran coincides with an unprecedented living crisis in Syria, al-Souria Net reports.

Explosions in Lattakia, News of Drone Attack

There has been an increase in incidents involving Russian aircrafts intercepting American ones in Syrian airspace, according to Baladi News.

Erdogan Open to Meeting with President Assad

Erdogan emphasized that Damascus’ condition regarding the Turkish withdrawal from Syria is unlikely to be met, according to Athr Press.

Can Law Achieve What Eludes Politics?

The Assad regime’s reliance on economic ties with Iran and Russia has impeded its recovery, Hassan Aswad writes in Syria TV.

New American Plan in Syria, Specifically Suweida

The U.S. is trying to implement a plan in Suweida with the local Druze population similar to the eastern Syria region run by the SDF, according to Athr Press.

“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.

Russian-Syrian Intelligence Meeting in Moscow

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.

Opposition Coalition Faces New Fate in Ankara

The opposition is currently considering the possibility of partially withdrawing from Turkey and relocating to Qatar, according to Athr Press.

Decline of U.S. Influence in the Middle East

Emerging countries that aspire to create a new multilateral international order are taking proactive steps and are no longer satisfied with merely reacting, according to Nader al-Omari in al-Watan.

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.

Iran Militias Moving to Eastern Syria?

Relations between the Syrian regime and Iran have recently been tense against the backdrop of Tehran’s delay in oil supply, according to Syria TV.

Russian-Jordanian Talks on Syria

Safadi and the Russian delegation agreed on continuing to support the efforts of the UN envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, according to Baladi News.

Russia’s Aid Threats Need a New Approach

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

New evidence of war crimes in Syria; 2022 deadly for the Syrian pound; and AANES calls for reopening of border crossing with Iraq. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

Syria 2022: Lowest Death Toll in 12 Years

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.

Regime Reinforcements Reach SDF Areas

The Syrian regime has sent military reinforcements to areas under the control of the SDF, according to al-Souria Net.

Mouvement on Riyadh-Damascus Road

A new process to breathe vitality into the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Syria is ongoing, according to al-Watan.

Pedersen in Damascus to Meet Mekdad

This is the second such visit in less than two months to discuss reviving the process of the Constitutional Committee in Geneva, according to al-Watan.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Turkey says Kurdish groups are “legitimate forces”. U.S. urges Turkey to stand down on plan to invade Syria and Assad says no meeting with Turkey anytime soon. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Will Erdogan Enter Aleppo?

Turkey could start a major military operation in Syria, according to Baladi News.

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.

The Syrian Oil: Time for New Approach?

In Syria, opponents found in oil a rare point of consensus to cooperate and pick clean the country’s wealth and revenues, according to Ibrahim Hamidi for Asharq al-Awsat.

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

Turkey slams the U.S., HTS attacks regime positions, British woman repatriated from Syria. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Lebanon to Begin Returning Syrian Refugees

In its September report, the United Nations’ Syria commission said the country was still not safe for returnees, according to Asharq Al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Cholera spreads in Syria, attacker of U.S. base to face military court and SNHR records casualties by Russian forces. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

China Waiting to Expand Investment in Syria

Beijing could be waiting for the political situation in Syria to improve to boost bilateral economic ties, according to Athr Press.

Syrian Government Marks Army Day

Assad saluted the armed forces, “the source of chivalry, sacrifice, and unlimited giving,” according to the Syria Times.

Assad’s Orphans in Aleppo

Excerpts of an op-ed by Iyad al-Jaafari in al-Modon, in which he underlines the strong Iranian influence in Aleppo.

Recap: Turkey Moves in Northeast Syria

Turkey has promised to root out “terrorists” from Northeast Syria, as part of its military operation in the Northeast, despite U.S. pressure.

Is Erdogan in Trouble?

Russian and U.S. occupation planes sent warnings to the Erdogan regime with regard to the operation in Syria, according to al-Watan.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Four killed at Jordan-Syria border, Israeli strike near Damascus and Russian diplomat threatens to shut cross-border aid. 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

Biden Extends State of Emergency in Syria, Iraq, Yemen

The U.S. will consider changes in policies and actions of the Syrian government in determining whether to continue or terminate this national emergency, according to Asharq al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

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.

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.

A Lesson from Ukraine can End the War in Syria

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.

What Happened Over the Holidays in Syria

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Russia calls for end of U.S. impunity in Syria, attacks in Suweida, and strikes on Idleb. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Russia threatens to close the Bab al-Hawa crossing to Syria, activist calls for unity of SDF and opposition, attacks in Daraa. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Exchange of fire between opposition and regime forces, Syrian Russian mercenary in Dubai for tourism, and weather conditions close ports in Syria. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Turkish attack on regime positions, COVID spreads in Syria, and Russia compares Ukrainian army with “Syrian terrorists”. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Mekdad, Lavrov Hold Talks in Moscow

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

AANES Welcomes Bogdanov Latest Statements

AANES praised the recent declarations by Bogdanov about the importance of Kurds’ representation in constitutional talk, according to North Press.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Russia calls for the regime to control all of Syria, the Opposition meets Turkey VP, and Covid spreads. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

International Coup Against Syrian Opposition

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.

The Crisis in Syria is Not Over

In an op-ed to Asharq al-Awsat, Omer Onhon affirmed that the war in Syria is far from over, despite Assad pretending that he is the victor.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

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.

Cultural Centers in Syrian Prisons

In an attempt to show a more positive image, the Syrian regime has announced the opening of cultural centers in prisons, according to al-Modon.

Meslet: Regime Return to Arab League is Crime Reward

Meslet, the leader of the Syrian opposition, has called for Arab countries to halt normalization with Damascus and not to allow the regime back to the Arab League, according to Syria TV.

Russia Reviews South Syria Strategy

Russia is trying to decrease the influence of the eighth brigade in south Syria, in order to bolster the government’s presence there, according to North Press.

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.

Idleb Tensions Rise as Russia Raids Continue

Russia continues its attacks on the de-escalation zone around Idleb, killing 6 civilians since the beginning of the year, according to Asharq al-Awsat.

Syrian Government Soldier Killed in Hama

A soldier of the Syrian government forces was killed and two others were wounded, in targeting by Syrian opposition factions in Aleppo and Hama, North Press writes.

Syrian Delegation Meets UN, Russian Delegations in Nur-Sultan

The Syrian delegation to Nur-Sultan met with the UN and Russian delegations, within the framework of the seventeenth Astana meeting in the Astana format about Syria, according to the Syria Times.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Israeli raid on the Damascus International Airport, a U.S. military convoy intercepted by the army in Syria, and children conscripted by the SDF. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Russian Forces Kill Five HTS Members East of Idleb

Five members of HTS have been killed by shelling from the regime and Russian forces along the Rabat frontline in the eastern Idleb countryside, according to Baladi News.

PM Arnous in Deir-ez-Zor: At the Center of Attention

The Prime Minister, Hussein Arnous, started a tour to the Deir-ez-Zor Governorate to discuss services and development projects in the region, the Syria Times writes.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Russian universities to potentially open branches in Syria, airstrikes on Idleb, and a high-profile SDC delegation visits Scandinavian countries. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Former Free Syrian Army Member Assassinated in Daraa

Unidentified gunmen assassinated a former Free Syrian Army member in the Daraa governorate, despite the absence of personal animosity between the victim and residents, according to the Syrian News Agency.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

The U.S. eliminated a Qaeda leader and renews the training of Kurdish-led group, an attack against a Russian convoy, and arbitrary arrests continue. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend in Syria.

European Sanctions on Cham Wings due to Belarus Flights

The European Union has imposed sanctions on Syrian private airline Cham Wings, for facilitating the crossing of migrants to Belarus and then to the Polish borders, according to al-Souria Net.

Syrian Foreign Minister Visits Iran

The Syrian Foreign Minister will be in Iran for two days to discuss bilateral relations, according to North Press.

Civilians Drive out Russian Patrols in As-Suweida

A Russian patrol in as-Suweida was driven out by locals, as the region’s new governor wants to reimpose the regime’s authority on the governorate, according to al-Souria Net.

SDC Pushed by Russia to Hold Dialogue with Damascus

During the meeting between Ilham Ahmed, and the Russian FM, Russia pressured the SDC to hold discussions with the government in Damascus, according to al-Watan.

How Would Syria Change and ‘Moderate?’

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 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.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Aid from Belarus to Syria, U.S. lawmakers question Biden strike, and Fourth Division withdraws from Daraa. Catch up on everything over the weekend.

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.

Talks Between Syria and Russia on Cooperation

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

The refugee crisis amplifies at EU-Belarus borders, Opposition warns against normalization with the regime, and the chief spy of Syria in Cairo. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Secret Meeting Between U.S. Delegation and SDC

Following developments in northeastern Syria, leaders of the SDF and SDC have held meetings with a U.S. State Department delegation, al-Souria Net reports.

Russian Airstrikes Kill Five Family Members in Idleb

Russian airstrikes on Idleb killed five members of the same family in the displaced camps near the town of Maaret Misrin, north of the province, Zaman al-Wasl writes.

Kurds Offer Damascus 75% of Syrian Oil

Syrian Kurds in the Northeast are prepared to offer 75% of the oil produced in their region to Damascus, as a gesture of goodwill, according to Asharq al-Awsat.

Bogdanov: Next Astana Meeting on Syria in December

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov said that the 17th meeting of the Astana formula on Syria should be held in the Kazakh capital after the 20th of next December, SANA reports.

Upcoming U.S. Russian Meeting on Syria

An upcoming U.S. Russian meeting in Geneva between Brett McGurk and Sergey Vershinin will discuss the situation in Syria, according to Baladi News.

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.

Ahmed al-Jarba Knocks on the Doors of Moscow

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.

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.

Russian Offer to Manufacture COVID-19 Vaccine by Tamico in Syria

The Association of Importers and Exporters of Medicines and Medical Equipment submitted a proposal to the ministry of health to localize the production of the Russian COVID-19 vaccine in Syria, according to Syria Steps.

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.

14 Soldiers Killed in Damascus Bus Attack, Promises of Revenge

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.

Caesar Act: As if it Never Happened

Bassam Hashem explains how regional dynamics are proving that the “war on Syria” and the Caesar Act were pointless and vain, in an op-ed to the Baath Newspaper.

Russia Ceases Financial Support to Daraa Eighth Brigade

The Eighth Brigade, which is prominent in the Daraa governorate and led by Ahmed al-Awda, no longer receives financial support from Russia, and is therefore financially subjected to the Syrian regime, according to al-Souria Net.

Daraa: Regime Wants All the Eastern Countryside

Media close to the Syrian regime have hinted that it intends to take control of the entire eastern countryside of the Daraa governorate, according to al-Souria Net.

Syrian Opposition Political Committee Discusses Developments

The Syrian Opposition Coalition political committee held its periodic meeting, in which it discussed the escalation around Idleb and the meeting with U.S. officials, the SOC Media Department writes.

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.

Disappearance of Young People from Deir-ez-Zor Markets!

Young people have completely disappeared from the markets of the eastern city of Deir-ez-Zor, as the regime launches a campaign to capture them and enroll them in the army, according to SY-24.

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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 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.

Mekdad: Coercive Measures on Syria Must be Lifted

Foreign and Expatriates Minister Faisal Mekdad, has reiterated the need to lift the unilateral coercive measures imposed by the United States and its Western allies on Syria, according to SANA.

Iran Admits Economic Losses in Syria

Iran has lost out in economic competition to Russia and other countries in Syria, according to the deputy chairman of the Syrian-Iranian Chamber of Commerce, Asharq al-Awsat reports.

A Report on Syrian-Lebanese Relations Over the Past Two Weeks

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Scorched Earth in Syria’s Daraa al-Balad

In Daraa al-Balad, after a truce agreement was reached, some people have returned to destroyed houses or scorched earth, Asharq al-Awsat writes.

UN Envoy Hopeful Syria Constitution Talks will Resume

The UN’s Syria envoy said he held “very good discussions” in Damascus Saturday, and hoped that a committee to discuss a post-war constitution could soon reconvene, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.

Regime Forces Enter Daraa al-Balad and Begin Inspection

Regime forces conducted an operation in Daraa al-Balad to ensure that so-called “outsiders” were not present there, as part of the truce signed a few days ago, according to Baladi News.

Qatar Condemns Syria Regime Attack on Daraa

Qatar on Sunday has condemned the Syrian regime’s “brutal attack” on the southern part of the city of Daraa, saying it led to the displacement of dozens of families, according to Zaman al-Wasl.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A high-profile Lebanese delegation in Damascus, an Israeli attack on Syria, and a call by activists to save Syria’s Daraa. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend

COVID spreads in Syria while shelling in the North intensifies. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Lessons from Afghanistan to Syria

Excerpts from a speech by Abdul Hakim Bashar, head of the Kurdish Democratic Party in Syria, in which he talks about the recent developments in Afghanistan.

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Israeli airstrikes on Damascus and Homs, the SDF conducts business with companies under sanctions and arrests ISIS leaders in al-Hassakeh. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

The Taliban Take Over of Afghanistan Echoes in Syria

The takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban after the American retreat, and the establishment of an Islamic Emirate there, had strong echoes in Syria, where there is a significant U.S. military presence.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Fires in Masyaf, the Foreign Ministry in Syria condemns statements by the west and a migration wave in Daraa. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Russia Criticizes Politicized Aid to Syria

The Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia stressed the necessity of providing humanitarian aid to Syria in a way that is not politicized, according to North Press.

4th Division Thwarts Agreement in Daraa

The 4th Division wishes to conduct a military operation on Daraa al-Balad, which makes it refuse any de-escalation agreement in the area, according to Baladi News.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Meslet meets with western officials, the fate of cross-border aid questioned again, and negotiations in Daraa. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Daraa Agreement: Iran Profits of Void Left by Russia

Iran is trying to expand its influence on the Jordanian border by filling the void left by Russia after the agreement signed to lift the siege in Daraa al-Balad, according to Baladi News.

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.

Russia Confirms Strike of Iranian Stronghold by Israel

The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed that Syria thwarted a strike carried out by Israeli jets against the Sayeda Zainab a stronghold of Iran and its militias, according to Asharq al-Awsat.

Murders Escalate in al-Hol Camp

Murders are becoming event more recurrent in the al-Hol camp, which welcomes more than 16,000 families and 60,000 people, according to al-Etihad Press.

Russia to Open Naval School Branch in Tartous

Russia has unveiled plans to open a Naval School in the Syrian port of Tartous, as part of its plans to consolidate influence in Syria, according to North Press.

Pedersen Discusses Syria with Lavrov

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.

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Russia calls for dialogue between Damascus and US-backed groups, while it bombs the region around Idleb. Catch-up on everything that happened over the weekend.

A Russian Scenario About Northern Syria Crossings

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.

Astana 16 Talks Start in Nur-Sultan

The 16th round of Astana talks was just kicked off. Delegations will discuss cross-border aid, the security situation in Idleb, as well as the political solution to the Syrian crisis, SANA reports.

Opposition Delegation’s Agenda at Astana 16

During the Astana talks, the opposition will focus on de-escalation in Idleb, cross-border aid, and the political solution to the conflict, according to Nedaa Post.

Douma Remains Unsatisfied About Detained Sons

Locals in Douma remain restless as their loved ones are still detained in the regime’s prisons since before 2014, despite promises, according to SY-24.

Russian Diplomats Discuss Syria with Pedersen

The UN’s special envoy for Syria discussed with Russian officials the Syrian crisis and humanitarian aid, according to The Syria Times.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Regime bombardments kill children in Syria, repatriation of ISIS families and fighters advances, and protests for the continuation of cross-border aid. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Abdah Talks About Rome’s Meeting Outcomes

Anas al-Abdah fears Russia will continue to use humanitarian aid to achieve political goals even after the Rome conference, according to Baladi News.

Tahrir al-Sham Denies Detaining Journalists

Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham denied detaining any journalists, claiming that it is in fact facilitating the job of media professionals, according to Baladi News.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Humanitarian catastrophe looms over Syria, and repression intensifies in Daraa. 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.

Opposition Meets with the EU’s Syria Delegation

In a meeting with European diplomats, the Syrian opposition called for the renewal of cross-border aid to Syria, according to the Syrian National Coalition.

What to Expect From the Russia-US Summit

Experts say that a mutual understanding bet ween on Syria between Putin and Biden could be reached in the upcoming summit, according to Athr Press.

Journalist arrested in Ghouta

Bassam Ezzedine, a former Orient TV correspondent known as Hadi al-Munajjid, has been arrested in Eastern Ghouta along with his wife, according to Sowt al-Asima.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Iran and Palestine have news ambassadors in Damascus, violence escalates in Northern Syria and COVID-19 continues to spread. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Russia “Disciplines” Al-Assad

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Syria participates in the 109th International Labor Conference, chemical weapons allegations, and transfer of ISIS militants. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Syria… Russian-Iranian cultural invasion

Iran is doubling its effort to culturally influence Syrian society but is facing strong Russian competition according to the Levant News.

US Policy in Syria in 2021

US President Biden’s policy towards Syria has not changed since Trump’s administration, argues Charles Lister, writing for Asharq Al-Awsat.

The Assad Elections Confirm the Country’s Division

The upcoming Syrian elections are a mere formality and carry little meaning for many Syrians, writes Hassan al-Aswad for Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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. 

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.

Compulsory Service for Women?

Women may now face compulsory service in Syria, according to an unofficial local news page, writes Sowt Al-Asima.

We Didn’t Understand Syria

Former US Ambassador to Syria Robert Ford recalls how America misunderstood Syria from the beginning of the war, writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

Lavrov, Ashkenazi Discuss Syria

Russian and Israel foreign ministers have pledged to stop Iranian activities in Syria, reports Al-Souria Net.

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.

Hijab, Cavusoglu Meet in Doha

Turkey’s foreign minister and Syria’s former prime minister have discussed the latest developments in Syria, according to Alsouria Net.

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

The EU grants multi-million dollar aid packages to refugee host countries, an elderly man is tortured to death in Afrin, four die in a Russian airstrike on oil refineries, and Yazidi women survive sex slavery by ISIS. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Cars Queue up to Get Gas

Despite Russian promises of fuel and wheat supplies, Damascus has witnessed lengthy queues at gas stations, writes Sowt Al-Asima.

Microfinance: What Is It and Why Now?

A new law to encourage microfinance banks aims to create jobs and achieve sustainable development, writes Alsouria Net.

Europe Supports Fair, Free Elections in Syria

Europe has moved closer to expressing a unified stance on the forthcoming Syrian presidential elections, writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

Daraa Central Committee Meeting Outcomes 

Dismissed and detained employees, security pursuits, and conscription dodgers were on the agenda at recent Dara Central Committee meetings, reports Etihad Press.

A Syrian Ray of Hope in a German Court?

Germany’s invocation of universal jurisdiction sends a clear message to the Assad regime, argues Elias Harfoush.

Moscow Lends Support to Assad Presidential Elections

Claiming a split between the presidential elections and the drafting of the new constitution, Russia maintains that the upcoming elections are legitimate, writes Al Souria Net.

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.

Robert Ford Opens Up To the Syrian Observer

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.

Pedersen Visits Damascus Amid Hesitation

The UN Special Envoy for Syria has paid a “reluctant” visit to Damascus, amid tensions over the stalled Constitutional Committee, according to Al-Watan.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Record numbers of Syrians are food insecure, 12 die in Aleppo bomb blast, and Iran announced a new direct shipping line to Latakia. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Anti-Assad Demonstrations Rage in Idleb

Hundreds of Idleb residents have joined protests demanding the right to return to their cities and villages, according to Baladi News.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Syrian Airlines announces Damascus-Doha flight, two Syrian army forces killed in Homs, and Kurdish-Arab brotherhood discussed. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Seven Daraa Central Committees Members Targeted

Assassinations are continuing to plague southern Syria, with members of the Central Committees, who are trying to implement the reconciliation agreements, being targeted reports Enab Baladi.

Ahmad al-Oda Washes Hands of Tafas

With the town of Tafas surrounded by Assad’s forces,  Ahmad al-Oda has said that he will not negotiate with the fighters to ensure that they are not displaced or arrested reports Alsouria Net.

Russia, Iran Meet on Syria

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.

Iran Tries to Expand in Daraa

Iran is continuing to push into Daraa with the Fourth Division, claiming to be searching for Islamists, which is refuted by locals in the area reports Baladi News.

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.

UN Announces Resumption of Talks on New Syria Constitution

Geir Pedersen has announced that the Constitutional Committee will resume talks in an effort to find a political solution to the crisis in Syria reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Assassination Attempt Targets the son of “Russia’s man”

Unknown gunmen have opened fire on Bassel Haswani, the son of prominent business man George Haswani, who was recently implicated in the purchase of the ammonium nitrate that exploded at Beirut port reports Alhurra.

Saudi Foreign Ministry Suspends SNC Employees

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.

No Light in Damascus Countryside

Residents in Damascus countryside are without power following a failure at a power plant and a delay in liquid fuel deliveries reports Sowt Al-Asima.

Has SDF-Assad Partnership Been Dissolved?

Negotiations between the regime and the Syrian Democratic Forces have fallen apart, although a military confrontation is not anticipated reports Baladi News.

Now Trump Is Gone, What Next For Syria?

Donald Trump will leave office today, but what has he left behind in and Syria and what will challenges will his predecessor face?

The Last 24 Hours in Syria

Two Syrians are charge in Germany, an Islamist group launches an attack in Idleb, a landmine kills 10 Russian backed fighters, and Syria wishes to import more oil.

2020 Gandhi Peace Award Honors Two Syrians

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.

Russia Kills 11 National Army Soldiers in Hama

Russian Special Forces attacked a village in the al-Ghab Plain area in the middle of the night, causing casualties among Jaish al-Nasr reports SY 24.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Seven regime fighters killed in ISIS attack, refugees rescued off Albanian coast, Russian warplanes launch attack, US sends reinforcements to Deir ez-Zor. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Firas Tlass Reveals Russian Plan To Legitimize Assad

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.

Why Another Term for Assad?

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.

What Happened During the Holidays

Israel have conducted another airstrike killing one, a car bomb killed children in northeastern Syria, calls for US to lift sanctions and ISIS launch attack against Syrian army. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Observations on the Return of ISIS in Syria

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.

Russian, Qatari Foreign Ministers Discuss Mideast

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.

One Year of the Caesar Act

A year after the Caesar Act was signed, the US has reiterated its desire to see the Assad regime seek a political solution to the conflict in Syria writes Baladi News.

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.

Tank-Carrying Russian Ship Heads To Syria

A Russian ship, that has been identified as a tank carrying landing ship, was seen transiting the Bosphorus Strait, en route to Tartous reports Al-Masdar.

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.

What did Mikdad Tell Moscow?

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.

Mikdad in Moscow after Tehran

Faisal Mikdad has held a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and discussed the situation in Syria and future relations writes SANA.

Is America on the Verge of Winning in Syria?

As the Biden team begins its work next month, it needs to reassess American policy in Syria, Robert Ford, former U.S. Ambassador to Damascus writes

The Battle of the Syrian Presidency Rages On

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Syria has been criticized by the OPCW, refugees become Canadian citizens, Turkey launches fresh assault in Raqqa and coronavirus cases continue to rise. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Is the Syrian South Trekking Out Again?

Amid political inaction Khalid al-Mahamid has called for the forming of a new political movement, which it is hoped will unite the south and achieve progress towards a political solution writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Has the Syrian Conflict Become ‘Tied’ to Other Files?

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.

Russia Blocks Displaced Return To Western Harasta

Russia is preventing civilians from returning to the orchards of Harasta, with it expected that the land will be given to them for a military base writes Zaman Al-Wasl.

Russia Propositions SDF in Ayn Issa

Russia officials have told SDF leadership that the threat of a Turkish invasion of Ayn Issa is real and they should withdraw from the area reports Asharq Al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Turkish forces attack citizens in Ayn Issa, coronavirus cases continue to rise, Russia and Syria conduct airstrikes against ISIS and Alouk pumping station halts service. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Syria: Government and Opposition Submit Documents in Geneva

All parties to the Syrian Constitutional Committee have submitted documents outlining their visions for the future, as the latest round of talks came to an end reports Asharq Al-Awsat.

Idleb Comes Under Focus After Turkish Troop Movements

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.

New SNHR Report Reveals Killings, Disappearances

A new report by the Syrian Network for Human Rights has documented the killing of civilians during November and the parties responsible for these crimes writes Sowt Al-Asima.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Russian-backed Eighth Brigade fighters arrested, Syrian families chased out of their homes, Turkey continues attack against the SDF and Jordan stops infiltration attempt. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

SNC has Missed the Train

Following the disastrous announcement of an elections commission, questions are now being ask about whether the SNC should be dissolved and replaced writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Can the Paxi Solve Damascus Traffic Issue?

In an effort to solve the public transport shortage in Damascus, the Paxi has been introduced, which offers low cost transport to citizens reports Baladi News.

Violent Clashes, Dead North of Raqqa

Northern Raqqa has experience a surge in violence, with the Syrian Democratic Forces targeting Turkish-backed groups and regime forces being hit by Turkish drone fire reports The Levant News.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Mike Pompeo is condemned for visit to occupied Golan Heights, US forces withdraw armored vehicles and trucks, coronavirus cases continue to rise, and Russian diplomat meets UN Special Envoy. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Syria in Talks With Russia To Buy New Aircraft

Syria is set to expand its aircraft fleet with the purchase of three passenger planes from Russia, and is making progress with its expansion of Aleppo Airport reports Al-Masdar.

US Denies Russian Reports of Major Syria Troop Withdrawal

Following reports by Sputnik Arabic, the US-led International Coalition has denied reports of a major American troop withdrawal from northeast Syria reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Leaked Recording Exposes Sentiment About Refugee Conference

Recordings taken at the recent refugees conference, have revealed that journalists covering the event do not agree with or believe the sentiments express by the conference’s speakers writes Al-Modon.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Six killed in missile strike in al-Bukamal, Russia says refugee conference is just the start, difficulties in securing gas and fuel and two Turkish soldiers killed. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Refugee Conference Through Opposition Lens

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.

Danish Company in Breach of Sanctions Against Syria

A Danish company, believed to be Dan-Bunkering, reportedly sold thousands of tons of kerosene to a Russian company, which was used to fuel Russian planes writes Etihad Press.

Refugee Conference Kicks off in Damascus

The International Conference for the Return of Refugees has begun in Damascus, with many speakers from foreign countries discussing the issues and means to secure returns writes SANA.

Assad’s Full Speech at the Refugee Conference

President Assad delivered a speech at the International Conference for the Return of Refugees in Damascus and said that effort were being made to provide all services needed for returning Syrians writes SANA.

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.

Five Steps to Amend the US Path in Syria

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.

Biden or Trump. Who is Assad Supporting?

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.

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.

Idleb Targeted Again

Regime artillery has targeted a number of towns and villages in Idleb, killing and injuring civilians reports Enab Baladi.

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Christians of Raqqa are asked to return, the Syrian Computer Society wins competition, aid distributed in Hassakeh, and no tsunami detected following earthquake. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

Assad Receives Russian Delegation

President Assad has met with a Russian delegation to discuss the upcoming refugee conference to be held in Damascus and the efforts made by foreign countries to prevent it writes SANA.

Almost 30 Dead as Syrian Forces Clash With ISIS

Clashes in the province of Hama, between the Islamic State and regime fighters, have left casualties on both sides reports The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

UN Envoy Sees Delay in Syria Political Process

UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen has said that planned meetings could be missed, but hoped that they could be rescheduled for November reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Heavy Casualties Following Russian Air Raids

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A US drone strike targeted and killed a meeting of al-Qaeda leaders, Mufti Mohammed Adnan Afiouni killed in roadside bombing, and fresh wildfires spread again. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Assad’s Assault on Idleb’s Schools

Russian warplanes destroyed schools during their military campaign earlier this year, killing civilians and displacing thousands of others reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Russia, Turkey Hold Syria Meeting in Moscow

Meeting have been held in both Moscow and Tehran, to discuss a variety of different issues, including the situation in Idleb reports Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

3,200 Violations Recorded in Idleb Since March Truce

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.

Will the UAE Interfere in the Syria-Israel Case?

The recent peace agreement between the UAE and Israel was barely acknowledged by Syria, but not for lack of interest, but rather due to the complicated relationship between the two countries writes Annahar.

What Happened Over the Weekend

The US has met with tribal leaders and increased its military presence, Russia and Syria have launched attacks against ISIS and a car bomb his Ras al-Ayn. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Has Russia Started a Political Solution in Syria?

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.

Idleb Deputy: Zero Hour is Approaching

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.

Russian Forces Threaten SDF with Withdrawal From Tel Tamr

After the SDF allowed a US patrol into Tel Tamr, Russia threatened to withdraw, leaving them exposed to Turkey and their affiliated groups reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Assassination Attempts in Daraa

An explosive device was discovered planted on a car in Daraa, which belonged to a prominent judge in the region, but it is unknown who placed the device writes SY 24.

Russia, Syria Sign MOU Around Peaceful Nuclear Uses

The two side have said that they will work together to use nuclear energy for peaceful means, including medicine, agricultural and mineral exploration writes Al-Watan.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Russia condemns economic sanctions and suggested assassination plots against Assad, the US bolsters troop number, and the UN urges investigations in the actions of Turkish backed groups. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Assad Courts European Union, Gulf Countries

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

New coronavirus cases announced, Prime Minister Arnous visits fire affected region, young girl hit with rubber bullets and refugees deported from UK. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Lavrov’s Unspoken Words

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

What Happened Over the Weekend

The U.S. does not appear to have any strategy in Syria, the Syrian and Russian armies reportedly inflicted damage on ISIS, more kidnappings in Turkish-held areas and more Covid-19 cases

SDC, People’s Will Party Sign MOU

The head of the Syrian Democratic Council has announced the planned signing of a memorandum of understanding with the People Will Party reports Basnews.

US, Russia Welcome Invitation to Attend Syria Talks

The US Special Envoy to Syria has invited both the US and Russia to the upcoming round of talks for the Constitutional Committee in Geneva writes Anadolu Agency.

Russian General Killed in Dei ez-Zor

An unnamed Russian major general has been killed in Deir ez-Zor, when his his convoy hit an improvised explosive device writes Rudaw.

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Russia condemn recent Israeli airstrikes, the number of Syrian killed in the Beirut Port explosion has risen, Iran has complained about a recent involving a US fighter jet and it was confirmed that the SDF are recruiting children. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Iraqi Fighters Arrive in Aleppo

Aleppo Governorate has witnessed the arrival of militia forces from Iraq, who have been sent to bolster the western countryside of Aleppo reports SY 24.

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.

Fifth Legion Members Chant Against Assad in Daraa

Shortly after graduating, and while still wearing their uniform and holding the Syrian flag, soldiers from the Fifth Legion started to chant against Assad reports Baladi News.

Disputes Standing in Way of Harvesting Crops in al-Qrayya

Disputes between Daraa and Suweida, which have often turned violent, have prevented farmers in the region from collecting their harvest and stripping them of a livelihood writes Enab Baladi.

Plans to Build Hagia Sophia Church in Hama?

Following the announcement that the Hagia Sophia would be turned back into a mosque, a National Defense commander has decided to build a miniature version of the building in Hama writes Enab Baladi.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Israeli army helicopters strike military targets, Syria and Iran lash out at US and the 25th Special Mission Forces Division arrive at frontlines. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Is the Moscow Agreement About to Collapse?

As the regime moves more reinforcements to the southern Idleb countryside and northwestern Hama, concern is rising that a fresh assault is coming and the ceasefire will end writes SY 24.

Russia Criticizes Syrian Elections

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Russia Bombs al-Bab for the First Time

Russia has launched a deadly aerial attack on the city of al-Bab, as they continue to apply pressure on Turkey to gain advantages in both Idleb and Libya reports Baladi News.

Moscow Push to Reduce UN Cross-Border Aid to Syria Fails

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.

The Latest Statement Out of Daraa

A group of prominent individuals from Daraa have written a letter to the regime to complain about the behaviour of the security services and the way they treat citizens writes Sham Network.

Why Did Suheil al-Hassan Visit Raqqa?

The leader of the Tiger Forces has visited Raqqa, where he toured military points and met with regime fighters reports Baladi News.

Russia Cargo Ship Carrying Tanks En-Route to Syria

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.

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.

Photo of Assad Torn up in Daraa

A photo of Bashar al-Assad was torn up in Daraa, amid rising tensions and clashes between rival groups reports Enab Baladi.

Russian Delegation Surveys al-Ward Oil Field

A Russian delegation has visited the al-Ward oil field in Deir ez-Zor, amid tensions between militias in al-Mayadeen city reports Deir Ezzor 24.

What Is the Caesar Act and How Will New US Sanctions Impact Syria?

The new US sanctions on Syria penalises any person or company that assists the Assad regime or contributes to the country’s reconstruction, putting Syria in a state of near-complete isolation writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

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.

Conflict Over Syria’s Wheat Crops

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.

Russian Cultural Center Resumes Activities

The Russian Cultural Center is to start Russian lessons and a variety of other classes, that will strengthen relations between Russia and Syria writes SANA.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Lawyers are warned to mind social media comments, a young man is tortured to death by the government, no progress made in Idleb and an activist arrested in Lebanon. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Retroactive, Current and Future Injustices in Syria

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.

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Coronavirus infectons rise, Syrian celebrate Eid, more Syrian travel to Libya, crops burnt in Hassakeh and Idleb resident demand to return to their homes. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Displaced Idleb citizens return to their homes, Russia cargo ships head for Tartous, Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham swap prisoners with the regime and Syrian government shells Daraa village. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Rocket attacks against the Hemeimeem airbase, ground clashes in the northwest, Syrian planes denied landings in Europe and fuel subsidies ended. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

Dinner at the Makhloufs

The former United States Ambassador to Syria, Robert Ford, recalls a time he visited the house of Rami Makhlouf for dinner with him and his wife.

707 Journalists Killed in Syria Since March 2011

The Syrian Network for Human Rights has document the killing of journalists in Syria since the start of the conflict, with the majority being killed by the regime.

Heavily-Armed Russian Submarine Heads to Syria

The Russian Navy has announced that the Rostov-on-Don submarine will join their fleet in the Mediterranean, replacing the Krasnodar submarine reports Al-Masdar.

What Happened Over the Weekend

More coronavirus cases recorded, school suspensions extended, more equipment moved by the US, and testing machines arrive from Kurdistan. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A fire at a camp kills children, minor earthquake felt on the Syrian coast, condemnation of Israeli actions in the Golan and Turkey continue to request help from the US. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Opposition Forces Thwart Regime Attack South of Idleb

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Coronavirus preparedness steps up, Syria and ChIna discuss prevention, Libya warns of foreign fighter infections and migrants rescued off Cypriot coast. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

The US Sanctions Syrian Minister of Defense

The United States has sanctioned Syria’s Minister of Defense, Lieutenant General Ali Abdullah Ayoub, for his actions on the behalf of the regime.

Drone Footage of M4 Highway Destroyed by Militants

New footage has revealed the road block that was put in place on the M4 highway, to prevent further joint patrols by Russia and Turkey reports Al-Masdar.

The Struggle for the State in Syria

A panel called “The Struggle for the State in Syria” discussed what the future held for Syria and what problems it might face writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Syria’s Brutal War Enters 10th Year

The bloody conflict in Syria has entered its tenth year, with much of the population displaced and the country and its economy in ruins writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

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.

The Russian Strategy in Syria

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.

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.

Opposition Fighters Hit Assad Bastions in Daraa

After months of assassinations and kidnappings, opposition forces have launched a coordinated attack against multiple targets in Daraa 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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A Turkish soldier killed in Idleb, opposition forces attack checkpoint, no coronavirus in Syria and Turkey closes airspace to Russian planes. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

The Youtube Influencers Selling Assad’s Syria

Foreign YouTubers with thousands of subscribers are presenting sanitized view of a country still reeling from a devastating war, writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Russians Expel Military Police Patrols From Douma

Russian military have stepped in and released two men who were arrested by the regime police and order that they leave the area reports Sowt al-Asima.

Syrian Father and Daughter Laugh off the Shelling

Abdullah al-Mohammed has taught his daughter to laugh off the airstrikes and mortars hitting the opposition held Idleb writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Barricades cleared from the M5 highway, Turkey hits back at accusations of neglect of duties, rebels launch a counter-attack and Syria-Armenia flight to start this year. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Activists Launch Center to Secure Army Defectors

The Syrian Safety and Defection Center is working to secure a safe place for those who have defected from the regime army and are looking for safety reports Zaman Al Wasl.

Health Situation in Idleb Headed for “Disaster”

The ongoing assault by the regime, Iranian militias and Russia has targeted health facilities in Idleb, crippling their ability to help injured civilians reports Alsouria Net.

40,000 Flee Attacks in Idlib Over Last 2 Days

Continued attacks by Russia and the Assad regime are forcing families from their homes and towards the border with Turkey writes Anadolu News Agency.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Underground tunnels discovered in Idleb, journalists injured in Aleppo, regime warplanes target al-Bab and food rationing imposed. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Refugees sentenced in Lebanon, skirmishes between US and Russian fighters, Jabhat al-Nusra attacks continue and the Syrian army advances. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

More Than 100 Airstrikes Hit Aleppo Countryside

Aleppo has been rocked by a relentless barrage of regime and Russian airstrikes that have caused widespread damage across the province reports Baladi News.

Saudi Arabia Heads Towards Damascus

Recent diplomatic activities in New York between Syria and Saudi Arabia have led people to expect a resumption of relations writes Al-Watan.

Turkey Suspends Talks Held With Ali Mamlouk

Hope of reaching a solution were dashed when the Turkish Defense Minister ended meetings with Ali Mamlouk reports Brocar Press.

Batches of Displaced From Idleb Reach Raqqa

Displaced families from Idleb have travelled to Raqqa province to seek shelter, although it has not been disclosed how they travelled there reports Enab Baladi.

Russia Enters Daraa to Release Regime Captives

As violence breaks out following a kidnapping, Russia has moved into Daraa province to aid with negotiations and restore control writes Enab Baladi.

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.

A Post-Soleimani Phase in Syria

With the death of Soleimani, his successor is going to have to decide what type of relationship he wants with the regime and the other parties in Syria.

Syrian Regime Displaced 1,300,000 People in 2019

The regime’s assault on northern Syria has forced over a million people to flee their homes resulting in a humanitarian catastrophe reports Zaman Al Wasl.

Assad Airstrikes Kill 7 Civilians in Ariha

The Assad regime is continuing is brutal assault in Idleb, bombarding the town of Ariha, killing a handful of civilians and wounding dozens more reports Zaman Al Wasl.

Faltering America

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.

What We Missed Over the Holidays

Russia moves to prevent Hezbollah drug trade, 90 regime fighters die in Idleb, call for action to prevent a humanitarian crisis and US strikes against Iran-backed groups. Catch up on everything that happened over the holidays.

Main Events in Syria in 2019

2019 was a tumultuous year for Syria, with regime advances, stalling political processes and economic woes. Brocar Press runs through the past year’s biggest events.

Syrian Army Advances in Idleb

The Syrian Army is continuing its advance in northern Syria, engaging in clashes with terrorists on the outskirts of Jerjnaz, a major stronghold, reports The Syria Times.

Portrait of Idleb Woman Reveals the Horror and Loss

An image of a crying women has led to an outpouring on social media and renewed calls for the international community to take action over Idleb reports Al-Modon.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Civilians in Idleb flee to the Turkish border, Russia and China uses their veto at UN, Christmas celebrated in Aleppo and Syrian regime push advance. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Syrian Regime Traps Civilians in Besieged City as Death Toll Mounts

16 people have been killed in airstrikes in Syria’s Idlib province as the regime trapped civilians in the besieged city of Maaret al-Numan, striking any car attempting to evacuate people writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Military Operation in Idleb Soon

The Syrian army to preparing to launch an offensive to recapture and secure the Aleppo-Hama Highway and the surrounding towns writes Al-Watan.

Assad Family Gangs Facing Pressure in Qardaha

Gangs run by Bashar Talal al-Assad and Hafez Munzer al-Assad are under pressure to give up their heavy weapons and submit to Russian authority writes Al-Modon.

ISIS Attacks Kill Four in Deir ez-Zor

The Islamic State have launched attacks in Deir ez-Zor, killing fighters from Assad’s forces and members of the National Defense militia reports Deir Ezzor 24.

Russian Military Opened Fire on an Israeli Aircraft

Russia have opened fire on an Israeli unmanned aerial vehicle that entered Syrian airspace along the eastern axis of the occupied Golan Heights region reports Al-Marsad.

Three People Shot Dead by Turkish Border Guards

As attacks on northern Syria escalate, more civilians are trying to cross into Turkey illegally, with some being killed by Turkish border guards reports Brocar Press.

Civilian Victims in the Regime’s Escalation on Idleb

The civilian death toll continues to rise with a attacks on towns and villages and a convoy of displaced people being hit on the Aleppo-Damascus highway writes Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

UN condemnation of Israeli actions in the Syrian Golan, ancient relics saved from ISIS and unexploded ordinance kills two children in Daraa. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Regime Airstrikes Kills Child, Wounds 7 in Idleb

Regime barrel bombs that hit a bakery have killed a child and wounded a number of other children in northern Idleb province reports Zaman Al Wasl.

22 Elite Troops Killed in Surprise Rebel Attack in Idleb

Opposition forces launched a surprize attack against the elite Tiger Force and Iranian militias near the town of al-Mshairfah east of Idleb city, killing 22 reports Zaman Al Wasl.

Syrians Launch Campaign in Solidarity With Idleb

Activists have launched a campaign on social media to highlight the plight of those living and experiencing the assault on Idleb by the regime and Russia reports Zaman Al Wasl.

Assad’s Forces Deploy in New Positions in Eastern Syria

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

More civilian casualties in Idleb province, further displacement of families fleeing violence and the Syrian army respond to terror attacks. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Schools in Idleb Close Their Doors Due to Bombardment

The ongoing assault by the regime and Russia has forced a number of schools in Idleb province to close, for fear of children being killed or injured reports Alsouria Net.

A Practical Guide for NATO Members to Understand Turkey

Turkey is attending a NATO meeting in the UK this week and the issue of northern Syria is expected to be high on the agenda writes Anadolu Agency.

Escalation Continues in Idleb

Continued bombardments by the regime and their Russian ally have force thousands of families to flee their homes reports Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Regime and opposition forces clash, thousands of families flee, the new president of the EU Commission speaks with Erdogan and Russia continues construction of airbase. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Russia Takes Over SDF Base in Northern Hassakeh

Russian forces have raised their flag over what was previously an SDF school, as the group seeks a rapprochement with the regime reports Furat Post.

Assad: ISIS Prisoners Could Face Trial in Syria

In an interview with Paris Match, President Bashar al-Assad talked about the killing of the leader of ISIS and the presence of foreign forces writes SANA.

Assad Militias Launch Missile Attack on Jisr al-Shughour

Assad’s forces, back by Russia and Iranian militias, are pushing their assault on Idleb, killing a number of people in a missile attack on Jisr al-Shughour reports Zaman Al Wasl.

28,076 Women Killed in Syria Since March 2011

A new report has highlighted the violations committed against women in Syria and the parties involved in war crimes and crimes against humanity reports Jisr.

Car Bomb Kills 2 Civilians in Azaz

A car bomb in Azaz has detonated next to a bus terminal, killing two people and injuring three others, with the YPG being suspected of carrying out the attack writes Zaman al-Wasl.

What Happened Over the Weekend

The US urges a political solution, a car bomb kills nine, Turkey attacks Ayn Eissa and Syria insists that the constitutional committee remains Syrian. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Death Toll From Qah Massacre Rises

Women and children are reported to be among the dead, following a cluster rocket attack on the refugee camp in the northern Idleb countryside writes Alsouria Net.

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.

Russian Airstrikes Kill 6 People in Idleb

A Russian airstrike, which targeted Maarret al-Numan has killed a number of civilians, marking the latest violation to the ceasefire writes Zaman Al Wasl.

Fresh Israeli Airstrikes Hit Syria

Israeli airstrikes have hit a number of targets across the country, causing damage to buildings, injuring some and causing a number of fatalities.

Constitutional Committee: The Only Choice?

The constitutional committee is not the victory that the Syrian opposition was looking for, but it may be the only option now writes Al-Modon.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Protests in Idleb, Russia speaks out about the Russia-Turkey relationship, 183 arbitrarily arrested in October, rebels take he Kabana hilltops and a car bomb hits Tel Abyad. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Foreign Companies Attend Syrpetro Exhibition

The Syria International Petroleum and Mineral Resources exhibition is hoped to be an opportunity for foreign companies to get involved in Syrian resources reports SANA.

Russian Military Police Shot at in al-Darbasiyeh

A Russian military police patrol, operating on Syria’s northern border, came under fire from unknown assailants, wounding one, reports Brocar Press.

Rebels Kill 12 Regime Fighters in Lattakia

Regime forces have tried and failed to push rebels out of the Kabana hilltops in coastal Lattakia province, with 12 regime fighters being killed reports Zaman Al Wasl.

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.

Will the SDF join Syrian regime forces?

As Russia and the regime move to secure the border, the Syrian Democratic Forces have announced their willingness to discuss joining the regime’s ranks reports Enab Baladi.

Syrian Army Confronts Turkish Occupation Forces

The Syrian army has moved north and has taken control of a number of town, putting them in direct confrontation with the Turkish occupation forces reports The Syria Times.

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.

10,000 Syrians Have Assets Frozen Over 2019

The Assad regime is using a 2012 law to confiscate the property of Syrians and transfer ownership to the regime 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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

President Assad calls for withdrawal of foreign troops, US troops to move to Iraq, Kurdish groups withdraw from border and ISIS fighters recaptured. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

The Shock of Reality: From Zaatari to Houran

For those returning to Syria from Jordan, the future is uncertain, with no guarantees of shelter or their safety repots 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.

America Acknowledges Selling out the SDF to Erdogan

William Roebuck has admitted that the US had sold out the SDF, but has not given approval for Syrian and Russian planes to close the airspace reports Al-Watan.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Continued Turkish attacks in northern Syria, a new military force in Deir ez-Zor, ISIS attack in Qamishli and EU countries suspend arm sales to Turkey. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Erdogan says operation east of Euphrates to start imminently, Russian airstrikes hit Idleb, Iranian presence grows and motorcycle bomb explodes in Aleppo. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Erdogan’s Operation in Syria Awaits American Decision

Turkey is preparing to move on northern Syria, but the political ground in the area is extremely fragile and fraught with complication writes Brocar Press.

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.

Northern Idleb Overwhelmed by Displaced People

The recent assault on northern Syrian has created a massive wave of displacements and Idleb is buckling under the pressure reports Al-Modon.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A ceasefire announced in Idleb, US strike al-Qaeda affiliate, UAE businessmen attend Damascus International Fair and Erdogan demands action on safe zone. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

Displaced From Idleb Complain of Restrictions

Displaced people, fleeing the violence in northern Hama and southern Idleb, have complained about the extortionate fees they are being charged to secure shelter writes Iqtissad.

Bouthaina Shaaban Visits Khan Sheikhoun

Bouthaina Shaaban visited Khan Sheikhoun to congratulate the army and promise that every inch of Syrian land will be liberated writes Al-Watan.

Pro-Tahrir al-Sham Courts Block Lawyers

Lawyers in Idleb have been banned from attending court by the Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham Salvation Government reports Zaman Al Wasl.

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.

Assad Meets Russian Delegation

President Bashar al-Assad has greeted a delegation from the Russian state Duma and worked to improve cooperation between the two countries reports SANA.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Airstrikes kill a number of civilians in Idleb, the Turkish-US joint operation center set to open, seven members of one family executed in Raqqa and air defenses shoot down suspected Israeli missiles. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Head of Russian Rights Group Disappears in Idleb

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.

Hezbollah Enters the Fray in Idleb

In an attempt to speed up the capturing of towns and villages in Idleb, Hezbollah has entered the battlefield, although progress has yet to improve reports Al-Modon.

Regime Airstrikes Continue in Idleb

The regime is continuing its assault on the northern province of Idleb, with 100 fighters from both sides killed since Saturday reports Zaman Al Wasl.

American Disruption in Syria

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.

Assad Regime Revokes Ceasefire in Idleb

The ceasefire agreed at the latest round of Astana talks has already collapsed, with the regime warplanes carrying out airstrikes around the city of Khan Sheikhoun reports Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Diplomatic discussions dominate the 13th Astana talks, Turkey vows action east of the Euphrates and a ceasefire is declared in Idleb. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Jolani Rejects Latest Ceasefire in Idleb

Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham commander, Abou Mohamed Jolani, has said that the latest ceasefire has not been agreed by the group and has refused to sign reports Alsouria Net.

Regime Pilots Train on Yak-130 Jet in Russia

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.

Opposition Delegation Confirms Participation in Astana Talks

Despite the ongoing attacks in Idleb, an opposition delegation will attend the latest round of Astana talks and will demand the cessation of violence and the release of prisoners reports Alsouria Net.

Will the US Interfere to Stop the Atrocities in Idleb?

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.

Russia: US Stealing Oil in Euphrates Area,

The Russian General Staff has accused the US of stealing oil and training terrorist groups in the area, while also holding them responsible for the suffering at the al-Rukban camp writes SANA.

Arrests Hit Settlement Fighters South of Damascus

Former opposition fighters, who agreed to settlements with the regime, have been subjected to arrests in the towns south of Damascus reports Sowt Al-Asma.

Opposition Hits S-300 and S-400 Sites in Hama

A barrage of rockets from opposition held areas struck a number of different sites across Hama, including the location of the S-400 air defense system reports Baladi News.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Russian and regime forces have pounded Khan Sheikhoun, Syria decries economic sanctions, the US supportive of Turkey’s actions in the north and plans for next round of Astana talks. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Idleb Airstrike Kills Media Activist Anas al-Diyab

Anas al-Diyab was known as a media activist who documented the crimes of the Assad regime in Khan Sheikhoun and volunteered with the Syrian Civil Defense teams reports Alsouria Net.

Thirteen Civilian Dead in Maarshorin Massacre

So far, thirteen bodies have been pulled from the rubble after a heavy bombardment campaign by the regime army on the town of Maarshorin reports Etihad Press.

Syrian Child Dies of Heart Attack

Siba al-Daddo, who was originally from Khan Sheikhoun, had a heart attack when regime forces attacked northern Aleppo reports Zaman Al Wasl.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Syria denies chemical weapon findings, Assad meets with the Russians, Nasrallah praises efforts of Hezbollah in Syria and more civilians killed in Idleb. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Fear Invades Lattakia

A surprize attack on the Jabal al-Turkman front by opposition forces left tens of fighters wounded and spread fear on the streets of Lattakia reports Al-Modon.

Army Posts Hit by Israel in Monday-Dawn Strikes

A flurry of Israeli airstrikes hit a number of targets across Syria, including scientific research centers, missile defense systems and positions controlled by Hezbollah writes Zaman Al Wasl.

Maher al-Assad Is Angry!

Major General Maher al-Assad, brother of the president, is agitated by the investigations that have targeted some of his closest allies writes Al-Modon.

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.

Hurras al-Din Hit by International Coalition Strike

The group were meeting to discuss internal differences when they were struck by the International Coalition, reportedly killing three leaders writes Enab Baladi.

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.

Pro-Iran Militants Loot Aleppo’s Antiquities

Seemingly with permission from the Directorate of Islamic Endowments and the Directorate of Museums and Archeology in Aleppo, Iranian militias have been looting archeological sites writes Zaman Al Wasl.

Will Russia Resort to Maher al-Assad?

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Drone shot down by Syrian Arab Army, Turkey says it is unable to accept more refugees, regime airbases revealed and Idleb bombardment kills 20 civilians. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Four Parties Pressure Iran to Reduce Presence in Syria

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

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.

Regime Forces Fail to Advance Towards al-Kabaneh

Regime forces have failed to make any progress into the village of al-Kabaneh in the northern Lattakia countryside, and suffered a number of losses writes Alsouria Net.

Protests in Assad’s Stronghold of Lattakia

The Assad stronghold of Lattakia has witnessed protests, with people calling for the downfall of the regime and praising the deceased opposition fighter Abdelbasset al-Sarout reports Al-Dorar al-Shamiah.

Russia Redeploys Regime Militias

Reinforcments from the Fifth Corps have been sent to various areas in the Lattakia countryside following heavy losses in clashes reports Al-Modon.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Thousands attend the funeral of Abdelbasset al-Sarout, civilians killed in regime airstrikes, refugee camp in Lebanon burns down and condemnation of journalist’s kidnapping. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Rebel Groups Expand Scope of Attack on Regime Forces

Rebel forces have increased attacks against regime forces and positions in the northern Lattakia countryside, killing five regime soldiers in a surprize attack reports Etihad Press.

Assad Regime Puts Damascus International Airport up for Sale

Damascus International Airport has reportedly been offered to Russian investors, an investment would include upgrading the passenger facilities, air conditioning, lighting and other aspects writes Al-Ayyam Al-Souriya.

Conflict Over Syrian Ports Between Russia and Iran

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.

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.

Hazarin Village Emptied of Residents

The continued assault by the Syrian regime and their Russian backers have forced 80 percent of the residents of Hazarin village to flee reports Smart News.

Why Do Syrians Celebrate When Israel Bombs Their Land?

Syrians living in opposition held areas have taken to celebrating Israeli strikes against regime targets, just as regime supporters celebrate strikes on civilian areas in Idleb writes Ana Insan.

War Crimes Committed in Idleb and Hama

The Syrian National Coalition has called on international organisations to increase efforts to stop attacks in Ideb and Hama and protect civilians.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Regime forces retake Kafr Nabudah, accusations of chemical weapon preparations, refugees deported from Beirut airport and journalists targeted in Idleb. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

New US Strategy in Syria to Pressure Russia, Face Iran

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.

Does the Regime Need the Idleb Battle?

While the regime pushes forward with its assault on Idleb and the Hama countryside, appetite among young men to go and fight is waning writes Al-Modon.

Opposition Forces Retake Kafr Nabudah

The Free Syrian Army along with other military factions have launched attacks against the regime’s forces, causing a number of casualties and destroying heavy weapons reports Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Israeli missiles shot down, Iraqi Airways flights postponed, fears of a humanitarian crisis in Idleb and China to reconstruct schools in Syria. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Turkish Regime Begs for a 72-Hour Truce

The Turkish regime was granted a short cease-fire to allow its forces to move observation points out of the path of the Syrian army writes Al-Watan.

Dozens of Families Evacuated From Khan Sheikhoun

As regime and Russia attacks on Idleb intensify, hundreds of thousands of families have been forced to seek safety near the Turkish border reports Alsouria Net.

Astana’s Failure Leading to a Military Solution in Idleb

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.

Has the Battle of Attrition Begun in Hama?

The Syrian regime, backed by Russia, is continuing its attacks on opposition positions in the Hama countryside, forcing them to change their tactics writes Al-Modon.

Who Is Smearing Suhail Al-Hassan’s Reputation?

General Suhail al-Hassan, commander of the Tiger Forces and once a rising star, has been forced to curtail the activities of his smuggling network writes Al-Modon.

Idleb: The Hesitance of the West and Turkish Silence

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.

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.

Regime Militias Begin Assault on Idleb

Militias belonging to the regime launched attacks on a number of different fronts across Idleb and Hama provinces, with Russian and regime air support reports Al-Modon.

Russia and Turkey Divided Over Idleb

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Attacks against the Hemeimeem Base, a failed conference in Ayn Issa, a Turkish attack on Kurdish positions and Turkish casualties following regime shelling. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

Syria Will Not Allow Its Allies to Fall

Frustration with Russia and Iran is growing in Syria, with many unhappy about the way that the country is viewed writes Al-Watan.

Three Reasons Behind the Assad Regime’s Crisis

The Assad regime is facing an increasingly tough situation as the country and its internal politics are pulled apart by Russia and Iran writes Hurriya Press.

Cabinet to Redouble Effort in Light of Fuel Crisis

Following their weekly meeting, the cabinet has said that they will implement a range of projects to help mitigate the effects of the fuel crisis that is plaguing Syria writes Al-Watan.

Assassinations Rock Southern Syria

Despite a Russian-mediated deal with the opposition, assassination have been on the rise, reflecting the power struggle between Iran and Russia writes Asharq al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Syrian denial of Russian Iranian conflicts, Syrian delegation visits Crimea, civilians killed in Idleb, ISIS attacks in Homs and Iranian control over Aleppo airport. 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.

Assad, Borisov Discuss Boosting Syrian-Russian Cooperation

Russia, a long time supporter of Syria, said that recent talks will help in the implementation of economic plans and will strengthen the relationship between the two countries reports The Syria Times.

186,000 People Displaced in 10 Weeks

The “demilitarized” zone, which was established by Russia and Turkey, was supposed to protect civilian from regime attack reports Alsouria Net.

Activist Majid al-Asmi Killed in Daraa

The regime is suspected of killing activist Majid al-Asmi, who worked for Syrian revolutionary magazines and highlighted the plight of children reports Al-Modon.

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.

ISIS in the al-Hol Camp

While the Islamic State has lost its final piece of territory, there are claims that they are now using the al-Hol refugee camp as a base to organize activities reports Ana Press.

Is the al-Rukban Camp Being Dismantled?

Following a meeting between Russia, the regime and representatives from al-Rukban, families have started to leave, although the fate that awaits them is unclear writes Al-Modon.

Syrians Fled for a Reason. Now Their Safe Return Is at Stake

The war in Syria has displaced 13 million people, but the situation and realities on the ground are not helping to facilitate their return writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Arrests in eastern Ghouta, continued suffering at the al-Rukban camp, five dead in Hama and al-Sisi pledges support for a political resolution. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Russia and Iran Divide up Syria’s Security 

Despite being allies, Iran and Russia are competing to take control of Syria’s state institutions and have made a number of new appointments to ensure their influence writes Al-Modon.

Bashar Talal al-Assad Steps out of Line

A recent rebellion by Bashar Talal al-Assad in Qardaha could point to a much bigger division between the Assad regime and their strongest national ally, the Alawites reports Al-Modon.

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.

Iran’s Presence on Syrian Coast Angers Russia

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.

Fifth Corps Attacks Assad Intelligence in Daraa

Members of Russia’s Fifth Corps have attacked regime checkpoints and accused those in charge of them of treating local residents badly and imposing unfair tolls writes Human Voice.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Spousal homicide in Qamishli, Erdogan vows to solve Syria after elections, residents of the Golan decry Trump and the missing in Raqqa. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Moaz al-Khatib: A Quiet Dialogue With Syria’s Pharaoh

The former head of the National Coalition, Ahmed Moaz al-Khatib, has called on Assad to step down for the good of the country and allow a group of technocrats to be formed writes Human Voice.

Civilian Tortured to Death by US-Led Forces

The tortured civilian was accused of collaborating with the Islamic State, whose defeat was announced at the end of last week writes Zaman Al Wasl.

The South’s Uprising Escalates Again

Broken regime promises and a continuing deterioration of living conditions in the southern province of Daraa have pushed people to protest writes Human Voice.

Doomed Jihadists Retreat Within Shrinking Final Syria Bastion

Both refugees and Islamic State fighters have been forced from the final stronghold of Baghouz, many of whom have ended up in the al-Hol camp, whose numbers have swelled in recent weeks writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.

Regime Releases Prisoners From Hama Prison

While President Assad has granted an amnesty to the prisoners, it is dependent on them complete military service 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.

Iran to Take Lattakia Port

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.

Ali Mamlouk Meets Turkish Intelligence

The head of the National Security Bureau, Major General Ali Mamlouk, was secretly transported to Turkey by the Russians on a boat to meet with members of the Turkish intelligence writes Al-Modon.

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.

Has Assad Really Won?

Recent protests in southern Syria have shown that, while Assad has taken control of much of Syria, opposition on the ground still remains reports Syria TV.

Russian Airstrikes Pound Idleb

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.

The Rise of Private Security

Young men are signing up to join private security firms, some of which are being backed by foreign powers, and providing protection to religious pilgrims writes Al-Modon.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Three killed in explosion, British jihadi bride looses child, Russia calls on the US to withdraw from al-Tanf and eight die from landmine. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

Clashes Escalate in Aleppo

Hezbollah has joined regime forces in fighting opposition forces in and Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham in the Aleppo countryside reports Al-Modon.

Daraa Told to Forget Prisoners Taken Before 2014

As well as asking for the release of prisoners, residents of southern Syria asked the General Intelligence Directorate to improve the living conditions and access to services writes Alsouria Net.

Convoys to Evacuate People From al-Rukban

Syria has accused the US of preventing displaced people from leaving the al-Rukban camp and spreading misinformation writes SANA.

UAE Lead Efforts to Rehabilitate the Syrian Regime

The UAE was the first Arab state to reopen its embassy in Damascus, but other Arab and Western states have been more reluctant without a political solution writes Hurriya Press.

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

German warnings of a US withdrawal, Islamic State sleeper cells, the Warsaw conference and humanitarian corridors. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Iran’s Changing Strategy

With the announcement that the US is to withdraw from Syria, Iran has been adapting its plans to fit a new landscape and ensure that it comes out on top writes Al-Watan.

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.

The Infants of a Dying ISIS ‘Caliphate’

Many of the children who have been born in the last days of the “caliphate” are without an official nationality and without a father writes Asharq al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Russia Lashes out at US Sanctions

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister has criticised the economic sanctions placed on Russia, Syria and Iran writes SANA.

Assad Regime Releases Islamic State Prisoners

It thought that the released Islamic State leaders will conduct attacks against the regime, that will serve as an excuse for a greater regime clampdown in the south reports Alsouria Net.

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.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A US court ruling against Syria, eleven dead after a building collapse, a humanitarian disaster brewing in eastern Syria and student protests in Idleb. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

No Consensus on Syria at Dead Sea Meeting 

Arab foreign ministers discussed the potential return of Syria to the Arab League, but was unable to make progress on the issue reports Al-Watan.

Jordan Pushes for al-Rukban Camp to Be Dismantled

While the quality of life for Syrians in the al-Rukban camp continues to fall, the alternative of leaving for regime held areas fills many with fear writes Alsouria Net.

Moscow: Situation in Idleb is Worsening

September’s agreement, between Russia and Turkey, was designed to keep regime and oppositions separated, but infractions have been common writes SANA.

Kurdish Official: Damascus Must Put Words Into Action

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.

Russian Airstrikes Kill Two in Idleb

In September, a demilitarized zone was establish, which was designed to keep regime and rebel factions separate reports Zaman Al Wasl.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A Kurdish road map, a car bombing in Idleb, civilians killed by International Coalition and the return of refugees from Lebanon. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

Russian-Chinese Offers to Invest in Toll Roads

Russian and Chinese companies have proposed building and operating a number of roads in Syria, before handing over control of them to the government reports Business2Business.

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.

Will Britain Reopen Its Damascus Embassy?

Following the announced opening of a number of other embassies, people are wondering if the British Embassy is set to open its doors again reports Human Voice.

Dream Cities Only for the Rich

There is a desperate need for housing in Syria, but there have been complaints that the houses being built are exclusively for the wealthy reports Al-Ayam.

Secret Meeting Between SDC and Government

The SDC said that it was ready to hand over the border with Turkey and become incorporated in the Syrian army reports Damas Post.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Turkish plans to attack east of the Euphrates draws support and warnings, Russian and Syrian business grows closers and Syrians return to Hajin. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

Syrian Media Says No Attack on Airport

Syrian regime media denied an attack near Damascus airport after reports that explosions were heard in the area reports Al-Araby al-Jadeed.

US Suggests Ending Astana, Sochi Talks on Syria

US Special Representative for Syria Engagement James Jeffrey has said that if a constitutional committee cannot be formed, the Astana talks should be cancelled reports Asharq al-Awsat.

Regime Arrests Former Fighters From Eastern Ghouta

The arrested fighters had been living in shelters in Adra city, before they were taken and interrogated by the security services writes The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

11th Round of Astana Meetings Begins

Over the course of two days, delegates will discuss the ongoing situation in Idleb, the return of refugees and the constitutional committee writes SANA.

Promises Broken With Settlement Fighters

Fighters who agreed to settlements with the regime are being told they will be sent to Idleb, despite previous reassurances that they would remain in Daraa reports Al-Modon.

OPCW Expands Investigatory Powers

Following a vote by member states, the OPCW will now be able to investigate chemical attacks and attribute responsibility reports Hurriya Press.

SNHR: Over 28,000 Children Killed in Syria

In its latest report, The Syrian Network for Human Rights has documented the number of children killed in Syria since the start of the war writes The Syrian Observer.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Kurdish meetings to discuss Turkish military movements, civilians killed in Hajin, rising tensions in Idleb and weapon caches found in Daraa. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

UAE to Reopen Embassy in Damascus

In a move welcomed by the regime, the United Arab Emirates will be the first Arab country to reopen its embassy in the capital reports Ana Press.

Which Outcome Will Idleb Witness?

The recapturing of Idleb remains a top priority for the government, but local and regional issues are complicated the matter writes Al-Ayam.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Demands to know the fate of the missing, condemnation of US attacks, regime assaults and reconstruction efforts. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

The New American Policy in Syria

After much confusion, the United States have announced a clear strategy on Syria and what they hope to achieve writes Al-Hurra channel.

Parliament Amends Law No. 10

The Syrian authorities are amending, but not cancelling, the controversial Law No. 10

Syrian-Americans and the American Elections

The vote of Syrian-Americans during the mid-term elections will partly be shaped by the policies of the two main American parties towards the Syrian conflict, Wael Sawah argues

Iran: No Long-Term Presence in Syria

Iran is seeking to dispel rumours about tensions with Russia over its presence on Syrian soil, Al-Hal writes

What Happened Over the Weekend

An aid convoy reaches Rukban at last, five Russian soldiers killed, a prominent tribal leader was also killed in Raqqa, the Syrian cabinet met in Aleppo, Iraq sent troops to its borders with Syria. Our weekend roundup here

Regime Attacks Escalate in Eastern Idleb

Clashes between Hayyat Tahrir al-Sham and Assad’s forces have broken out, in what was supposed to be recognised as a “demilitarization” zone reports Hurriya Press.

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.

Syria Reopens Damascus Antiquities Museum

The museum closed its doors in 2012 to protect the artefacts from the ravages of war writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

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.

Destroyed Damascus Houses Wait for Their Owners

As fighting subsides, residents are returning to their homes to see what still remains and what can be salvaged writes Ana Insan.

The Regime Withdraws Law No. 10?

Even with the withdrawal of Law No. 10, the ability of the regime to seize property has not been diminished writes Sada al-Sham.

What Happened Over the Weekend

US airstrikes on civilians, protests in Idleb, women and children released and Jan Egeland resigns. Catch up on everything you missed over the weekend.

Crisis Surrounds the Constitutional Committee

As the date for the final lists for the constitutional committee approaches, accusations of regime bias are circulating writes Hurriya Press.

Ruling Baath Party Rearranges Its Structure

In the recent local council election, the ruling Arab Socialist Baath Party maintained a strong grip on power in the country writes Etihad Press.

What Happened Over the Weekend

The return of festivals, Syrian-Iranian business, regime casualties and a withdrawal by the opposition. Catch up on everything you missed over the weekend.

Russia Deliver S-300 to Tartous

The Syrian officers have been told not to use the air defense system, until they have received more training reports Zaman Al Wasl.

Syrian and Turkish Security Meet in Tehran

This meeting marks the first time since the start of the war in Syria when the two sides have sat down with each other reports Damas Post.

Assad Grants Iran a New Project in Lattakia

Iran has been granted the rights to build a new power station in Lattakia, which will be able to generate 540 megawatts reports Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Meetings at the United Nations, criticism of the US presence, the Nasib Border Crossing and
an attack in Gaziantep. Catch up on everything that happened in Syria 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.

The Idleb Deal Will Not Be Implemented

With the refusal of the terrorist groups in Idleb to hand over their weapons and withdraw, a military assault on the area looks inevitable writes Al-Watan.

Israel Vows to Continue Operations in Syria

Despite recently increased tensions with Russia, Israel has said that it will continue to target Iranian military positions in Syria reports Anadolu Agency.

Mikdad: State Control Over Idleb Is Inevitable

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.

Trusting the Wolf

After a string of broken Russian promises, the Syrian opposition view anything that Russia says with a wary scepticism writes Geiroon.

Regime Breaks Education Promises in Northern Homs

When the regime took control of northern Homs in May, they promised that students would be able to return to their studies, but so far, pupils have not been able to return writes Hurriya Press.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Chemical weapons, condolences from Syria, suspected US airstrikes and Russians accusation directed at Israel. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

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.

Thousands Return to North Syria After Russia-Turkey Deal

The UN had warned that an all-out on Idlib, where three million people live would trigger a humanitarian catastrophe and one of the worst bloodbaths of Syria’s war writes

Confusion Surrounds the Downing of a Russian Plane

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.

Residents in Idleb Thank Turkish President Erdogan

Following the agreement between Russia and Turkey, residents of Idleb province took to the streets to thank the Turkish President for all his efforts reports Enab Baladi.

Russia Suggests Delaying Battle for Idleb

The Russian President’s Special Envoy to Syria has said that an assault on Idleb could be postponed, but not forever writes Hurriya Press.

Hijab: The Regime Cannot Take Idleb

Former Syrian PM Riad Hijab says the regime is much weaker than it looks, Alsouria Net reports

What Happened Over the Weekend

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

Syrian Coalition Calls for Serious Action

The Syrian National Coalition has warned of a humanitarian disaster if the regime and its allies for forward with their planned assault.

Raid on the Mezzeh Airbase

The recent attack on the Mezzeh military airbase reveals the interplay between nations and their influence in the region writes Al-Hayat.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

SNHR: 391 Civilians Killed in August

As the number of civilians killed in military operations falls, the number of civilians killed in bombings and assassinations has been rising reports Zaman Al Wasl.

Moallem: Syria Is Determined to Liberate Idleb

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.

Fear Grips the Syrian Mind

The release of death notices by the Syrian regime has raised fear and suspicion in the minds of those who had lived in opposition controlled areas writes Geiroon.

What Happened Over the Weekend

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.

Daraa Residents Struggle to Celebrate Eid al-Adha

Residents of Daraa have complained that, despite the reconciliation agreements, regime forces are still making life very difficult for them reports Zaman Al Wasl

Head of SDC Speaks out About Negotiations With the Regime

Riad Darar, the co-president of the Syrian Democratic Council, has not ruled about the possibility of Russian or America acting as guarantors in future negotiations with the government reports Basenews

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.

Moscow’s Soft Power Spread in Syria

While the Russian military presence in Syria has long been assured, it is being joined by Russian attempts to spread language and culture writes Al-Jazeera

Residents Fear Russian Monitoring of Internet Activity

Following the arrest of a number of individuals, residents in the northern Homs countryside are beginning to believe that their internet communications are being watched by the Russians reports Alsouria Net

Russia and Turkey Discuss the Fate of Idleb

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that a full scale assault would result in a complete massacre, which should be avoided reports Alsouria Net

Five Drones Downed Near Hemeimeem Airbase

The Russian military base at Hemeimeem Airport had previously downed individual drones that were flown towards the base writes SANA

What Happened Over the Weekend

Regime attacks in Latakia, the suspension of medical work, foreign currency deposits and rocket attacks on civilians. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Fears of a Syrian Regime Offensive in Idleb Rise

A UN-led group of health agencies has warned that an anticipated Syrian regime offensive against opposition rebels in Idleb province could displace more than 700,000 civilians writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed

What Happened Over the Weekend

The closure of a field hospital, Syrian-Russian business opportunities, rebel attacks and accusations against the Turkish. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Damascus and the Kurds: Mutual Delusions

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

Lavrov Hints at Attack on Idleb

In contrast to the words of the Russian special envoy to Syria, Sergei Lavrov has said that terrorists in Idleb must be eliminated reports Hurriya Press

No Major Assault Planned on Syria’s Idleb: Moscow

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

Jamil al-Hassan: Any and All Opposition Will Be Eliminated

In a meeting of top-ranking officers in the Assad army and its intelligence agencies, the Head of the Air Force Intelligence administration has set out plans for the next stage of the conflict writes The Syrian Reporter

The Fate of Syria’s Druze

Syria’s Druze community have tried to remain neutral during the Syrian war, but local events could force their hand writes Asharq al-Awsat.

Is Idleb Next?

As the regime wraps up operations in the south, questions about the fate of the north are being asked writes Hurriya Press

Israel Shoots Down Syrian Jet

The army statement claimed the Syrian plane had infiltrated its airspace reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed

Will Assad Move on Idleb?

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

What Happened Over the Weekend

Christian celebrations, resident transfers, civil defense evacuations and humanitarian aid from France. Catch up on everything that happened in Syria over the weekend.

The Syrian ‘Deal of the Century’

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

The Daraa Bargain

Daraa is facing the same fate as Aleppo and Ghouta writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed

Rami Makhlouf’s Prophesy

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

Horan: A Chronicle of a Death Foretold

The images of displaced Syrians from Daraa province ignites memories of Syrian seasonal workers in Lebanon writes Daraj

No Reconciliation for Daraa

The opposition claimed that the terms of the deal were tantamount to a humiliating surrender writes Al-Modon

The Kurds Are Changing Their Alliances

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

Foreign Influence Draws New Borders Throughout Syria

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

The Constitution Debate: Damascus, Open City

Interested parties from all sides are meeting in Geneva to discuss a new Syrian constitution, which the Russians hope will work in their favour writes Al-Modon

The Dreams of Syrian Kurds Evaporate… as Usual

Syrian Kurds are facing uncertainty with the possible withdrawal of US forces and the new “roadmap” deal for the city of Manbij writes Wael Sawah

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: From Douma to The Hague

In loyalist Al-Watan, Maysoun Youssef argues that Western nations should listen to the testimony of Syrian child Hassan Diab

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

What After the Eastern Ghouta?

Geroun explores the reasons behind the Ghouta’s collapse and looks to the future for the enclave and the groups that controlled it

Iranians Killed in Attack on T4 Air Base

Iranian media releases the names of the four killed in Israel’s strike on the central Syrian facility, Alsouria Net reports

15,000 Students Study Russian in 170 Schools

Students in the language have the possibility to visit Russia and teach Russian after obtaining their degrees, according to Tishreen

New Weapons Used by the Regime in Daraa

The use of new military technology in Syria’s south is being seen as a warning to opposition factions there, according to Alsouria Net

Opinion: Turkey’s Options After Afrin

Writing in Al-Watan, Anas Wahib al-Kurdi details the options Turkey now faces to realize its vision in northern Syria

Events in Syria Over the Weekend

A regime offensive in the Eastern Ghouta and a rally in Berlin backing the newly freed Salih Muslim marked the first weekend of March

Syria News Roundup: Feb. 6

Iran calls on Turkey to respect ‘Syrian sovereignty’ in Afrin, while Moscow claims downed Russian pilot ‘committed suicide,’ Al-Hal reports

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: No Reconstruction for Syria

Assad’s allies Russia and Iran will not foot the money needed to bankroll the upcoming rebuilding phase, Jihad Yazigi writes

Opinion: America’s Strategy Without Assad

Washington correspondent Hussain Abdul Hussain explains why America viewed the Assad regime as a valuable partner in the past, and why that has changed

Opinion: Black Holes or a Turbulent Downfall?

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

Opinion: America’s Errors and its Accidents

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

Opinion: How Can Assad Be Overthrown, Then?

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

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

Opinion: Responding to De Mistura’s Questions

Walid al-Bunni explains that in the face of a powerful Russia, Syria will only achieve independence and stability through a realistic approach to the post-conflict stage

Opinion: Deir-ez-Zor… The Day After?

Nathan Saleh describes three future scenarios for the eastern province’s remaining opposition in light of recent developments

Opinion: Victory is Not an Orphan

Writing for Al-Modon, Sataa Nour El-Din asks which army will assume the narrative of victory following the defeat of ISIS

Will the Opposition Accept Assad Remaining?

As the international consensus leans increasingly toward Assad staying, will Syria’s main opposition eventually get in line with its backers, Souriatna asks

Opinion: Know Your Enemy

In an op-ed for the loyalist Syrian Now site, Assad’s chief propagandist points the finger at Israel for planning the fragmentation of the region and the attempted downfall of Syria

Opinion: Will Idleb be Syria’s ‘Tora Bora’?

Writing for Qatari-owned Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, Adnan Abdel Razzaq draws a comparison between the displacement of rebels to Idleb and the US testing of the MOAB bomb in Afghanistan

Opinion: The Fate of Syria at a Crossroad

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

Opinion: Syria — Is It Over?

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

Opinion: Syria’s Critical Moment

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

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

Russia Accumulates ‘Odious Debts’ in Syria

The Syrian government is making significant economic concessions to Russia, which will have long-term damaging effects on the Syrian economy, Enab Baladi writes

Opinion: American Chemical Hypocrisy Will Not Succeed

Writing for regime mouthpiece Al-Watan, Maysoun Youssef claims that U.S.-backed groups attempted to blame the Syrian government for its own use of chlorine gas in Ain Termeh

U.S. Army Obtains Tabqa Air Base From Kurds

Russian official warns of imminent U.S. ground invasion after sources report the handing over of an air base to American forces, loyalist website writes

Former U.S. Envoy Robert Ford: We Gave Syrians False Hope

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, the American diplomat says his country gave false hope early on to Syrians who believed the U.S. would intervene militarily against Assad

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: America’s Goal is to Weaken and Isolate Syria

President Assad’s political and media adviser writes in loyalist Al-Watan that recent U.S. military action in Syria is part of a century-old plan to fracture the unity of the Arab world

Opinion: Why Insist on the Astana Conferences?

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

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

Monitor: 1,014 Civilians Killed in Syria During April

British-based group singles out regime and Russian forces for their human rights violations in report documenting the deaths of more than a thousand non-combatants in 30 days, Madar al-Youm reports

Moscow Warns of ‘Preparations for Chemical Show’ in Damascus

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

Warplanes Kill 12 People in Idleb Hospital Strike

A dozen people killed and hospital damaged by airstrikes on opposition-held Kafr Takharim, in yet another case of medical facilities being targeted by Syrian or Russian warplanes, Alsouria reports

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

Possible Russian Airstrike Targets Main Market in Khan Sheikhoun

Civilians reported dead and wounded after central market is struck in Khan Sheikhoun, the site of this month’s chemical attack which preceded the first U.S. military strikes on Syria, opposition media Alsouria Net writes

Assad Regime, Allies Intensify Attacks on Damascus and its Countryside

Opposition media center reports that Syrian government forces and allied militias continue to target rebel-held areas with heavy bombardment, now for the 40th day in a row, as the death toll rises in some residential districts

Tehran Meeting Strengthened Syria Cease-Fire Deal: De Mistura

U.N. envoy tells reporters in Switzerland that cease-fire guarantors Russia, Turkey and Iran worked actively to ensure the success of a possible political settlement during trilateral meetings in Tehran, state news media reports

Hama Battles Intensify Amid Reports of Shiite, Regime and Russian Deaths

Activists and monitoring groups claim FSA troops kill over 50 Shiite militants in four weeks of fighting throughout Hama province, meanwhile a rebel missile attack kills Russian and regime personnel in the province’s northern countryside, opposition website Zaman al-Wasl reports

‘They Have No Choice’: Documenting Assad’s Violations in Al-Waer

Report by U.K.-based human rights group documents regime violations in the Al-Waer neighborhood of Homs, including the killing of nearly 900 civilians, in the lead-up to resettlement operations being carried out, opposition media reports

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

Best Plan to Resolve Syria Crisis Already Approved by U.N.: Lavrov

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

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

Syria … Post the U.S. Strike!

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

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

Russia Burns Idlib With Napalm and White Phosphorus: Activists

Activists report numerous attacks on the rebel-held province over recent days, likely in response to last week’s missile attack by U.S. forces on a Syrian air base, opposition outlet Zaman al-Wasl writes

Russian Cluster Bombs Kill 21 People in Idleb Province

Activists and media report scores killed in Russian bombing of rebel-held Idleb, including a new strike on the site of last week’s chemical attack in Khan Sheikhoun, Zaman al-Wasl writes

Syrians Fear Russian, Regime Retalliation After U.S. Strike

Civilians voice concern over increased air campaigns against residential areas as witnesses report white phosphorus attacks in the hours after the U.S. cruise missile strike on a Syrian air base, opposition website Alsouria Net writes

Syria Moves Warplanes to Russian Base, Civilian Airports: Source

Syrian warplanes will be decamped and transported to Hmeimym airbase and civilian airports in the capital and other cities following the U.S. strike in Homs, military source tells opposition newspaper Zaman al-Wasl

Opinion: Is a Political Solution Still Feasible in Syria?

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

Assad to Croatian Media: We Have No Other Option Except Victory

President Bashar al-Assad gave an interview to Croatian newspaper Vecernji List published Thursday, in which he reflects on six years of conflict, the negotiation process and the fight against terrorism. The following is the full text as published by government news agency SANA

Russia Blocks Iranian Land-for-Power Deal on Syrian Coast

Media activist Mohammed al-Saheli claims Russians stationed at the Hmeimim airbase in Lattakia denied Iran century-long rights to obtain land in the Qandil Valley in exchange for power supply to the coastal areas, opposition outlet writes

Chemicals Once Again: Liberating Syria From the Grip of Assad

Operations by the U.S.-led coalition to liberate Raqqa will not be enough as long as Assad and his regime continue their abuse against their own people, the real source of resentment which allows terrorism to thrive, Randa Taqi al-Din writes for Saudi-owned Al-Hayat newspaper

Russia Doubles Down on Military and Political Strategy in Syria

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

‘Mother of All’: Asmaa al-Assad and the Syrian Propaganda Machine

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

The Curse of Minority Rule: Could the Kurds be Syria’s New Alawites?

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

Hariri: Assad Regime Stonewalled Geneva Negotiations

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

Arms Dealers See Peace as Bad for Business in Northern Syria

With fighting slowing on a number of fronts in Syria’s north, weapons traders face a sharp drop in arms prices as new players enter the market, bringing with them a surplus of stock, Iqtissad reports

Ahrar al-Sham Fighters Shoot Down Helicopter in Lattakia

Fate of crew remains unknown after key rebel group claims responsibility for hitting a possible regime helicopter near the Suffiyat area in Kurds Mountain, opposition media Zaman al-Wasl reports

Russian Media Attacks Assad for Failure to Defend Damascus

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

Assad the Servant of All and Master of None

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

Army of Free Tribes: Syria Talks Important Despite Astana Boycott

Sheikh Rakan al-Khudeir, the head of the Army of Free Tribes, tells All4Syria that guarantor states have failed to commit to the cease-fire achieved in previous rounds of negotiations, leading to opposition groups boycotting the recent Astana talks

Alloush Details Reasons for Boycotting Astana Talks

Head of rebel groups delegation Mohamed Alloush said he would boycott Astana talks to protest Russia’s failure on the ground to make good on every promise it has made on public media

Assad: I Did Not Force My Son to Learn Chinese

Assad says U.S. forces in Syria are ‘invaders’ and he has yet to see ‘anything concrete’ emerge from President Donald Trump’s vow to prioritize the fight against ISIS. Below is the full interview as published by SANA.

Unchecked by Russia, Assad Regime Intensifies Assault on Al-Waer

As Assad regime jets raid Al-Waer district in Homs, killing and wounding more civilians, it becomes ever more clear that Russia has completely failed to uphold the cease-fire signed in December of last year

The Winners and Losers in Geneva Talks

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

Geneva Peace Talks Stillborn After Homs Attacks

The latest Astana talks mark a regression from the first round as the US returns to the scene, spurring a series of regional and international developments which undermine earlier achievements

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: Concessions Did Not Save Geneva

Although almost everyone cooperated with the Russian project, including Turkey, Gulf countries, and the Trump administration, this wasn’t enough

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

Where is the US on the Geneva Talks?

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

Opinion: De Mistura Must Unite Syrian Opposition in Geneva Talks

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

Clashes Intensify in Daraa as Regime Launches Air Raids

Regime warplanes launched 15 air raids and dropped six barrel bombs on al-Manshiya neighborhood in Daraa, intensifying clashes and forcing schools to close, opposition outlet reports

Opinion: Iran’s Decline

The decline of Iran’s dominance is inevitable due to its diverging interests with Russia in Syria and the emergence of an American policy shift

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

Astana 2 Puts Jordan’s Intentions to the Test in Daraa

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

Syrian Army is Geo-localised: Syrian Expert

An interview with Kheder Khaddour on why, despite its weak fighting capabilities, the Syrian army remains a key element of the regime’s survival strategy. Here is the second part of the interview.

Jamal Suleiman: Russians Want to Tame Armed Opposition, Not Legitimize Them

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

Opinion: Has The Time Come for Alawites to Recover After All These Long Years?

The country’s Alawite sect, which has been largely marginalized by Syria’s opposition, must be embraced in any future transitional stage if they are to reach the goals of the Geneva communique, writes Saleh Qallab for Saudi-owned Asharq al-Awsat

Kremlin Announces First Meeting of Joint Operations Group in Astana

Russia says regular meetings will be held in the Kazakh capital, and will include representatives from the Syrian government and opposition along with other countries, with the aim of working towards implementing the peace process, according to state media

Lavrov Calls for Syria’s Reinstatement to Arab League

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

Dismantling Historical Idleb: Syrian Antiquities Victim to Destruction, Looting and Neglect

Home to hundreds of archeological sites, rebel-held Idelb’s historical artifacts have seen the full effects of corruption, looting and deliberate bombardment over the past six years, as those antiquities that aren’t destroyed are gobbled up by an eager international black market, Hussein Abdullah writes

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

How Did the Opposition Respond to Russia’s Proposal for a New Syrian Constitution?

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

Why Are Chechen Military Police Patrolling Aleppo?

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

Opinion: A Russian Constitution For Syria

The draft constitution has been prepared by Russian experts in order to speed up the political process

Difficult Negotiations Await Syrian Opposition in Astana

How will the Syrian opposition go to Astana and what are the issues to watch out for? Political opposition and religious figures speak with Alsouria Net about what strategic changes must be made in order to emerge successful

Obama: Worst American President to Become Former President

Obama’s two terms and the lie of the bloody Arab Spring made us feel that George W. Bush was a dove of peace. Bush did not, in practice, destroy anywhere but Iraq, given that Afghanistan was already destroyed, whereas Obama went ceaselessly from Syria to Libya and Yemen.

Opinion: After the Battle of Aleppo… Russia and the Political Settlement

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

Syrian Government is Ready to Negotiate: Assad

President Assad has said that his mission, according to the constitution and according to the laws, that we have to liberate every inch of the Syrian land. Following is the full context of the statement, as published by SANA

Aleppans on the Syrian Coast: We Want to Return to Our City

Displaced Aleppans in Lattakia and Tartous are eager to return to their embattled city to prevent demographic change after the regime and Russia declared victory against rebel fighters there

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: Because Astana Alone is Not Enough

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?

Godfather of Aleppo’s Ceasefire: From Revolution to Regime

Critics of “Sheikh” Omar Rahmoun say the former Homs-based revolutionary sold out his compatriots in east Aleppo after overseeing a ceasefire agreement between opposition fighters and the regime

What Has Syria Lost With the Destruction of Aleppo?

With Aleppo characterized by its vibrant textile industry, which contributed about a third of Syria’s total industrial production, what will the devastation of the “economic capital” mean for the country’s economy in the long-term?

Opinion: Does Sharing Syria Mean Partitioning It?

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

Assad: US Supports Terrorists By Calling Them Moderate Opposition

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:

Opinion: Iran’s Dilemma After Aleppo

Will Iran spend 2017, which is fast approaching, fighting to take over the remaining Syrian towns including the Damascus countryside which is still partly under the control of the rebels?

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: Is the Islamic State Group Nearing its End?

Does the fall of the ISIS-held town of Dabiq to Western-backed forces signal the end of the radical Islamist group, and could its legacy live on following its possible demise?

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: The Greatest Threat to International Peace and Security

After nearly six years, and due to the complexities and overlaps of international actors and players – regionally and internally – it became clear that the strings are no longer pulled by the Syrians or even regional states as the conflict has mutated into score-settling between super powers, chiefly the US and Russia

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

Damascus Rejects Opposition Conference with ‘Russian Guarantees’

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

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

Is it Time For the Regime to Displace Southern Damascus?

Opposition negotiators trying to spare the area what happened in other areas, like Daraya and Moadamiya, especially given that the regime is trying to take control of the southern countryside of Damascus

Opinion: Our ‘Opposition’ and the Era of Trump

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

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: In Syria, Trump Equals Obama

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

‘The Walls of Fear’ Return, Armed, to Damascus

An increase in state repression and random violence has contributed to the spread of “war commanders” and the occurrence of a coup in social segments to the benefit of the emerging “new guard” of businessmen

National Coalition Welcomes Trump’s Presidential Victory

Opposition leader hopes Trump can prove his critics wrong by showing greater leadership over Syria than his predecessor Barack Obama, with a comprehensive new approach to protect civilians

Assad: US and its Western Allies Are to Blame for Failure of Latest Ceasefire

Bashar al-Assad told Serbian newspaper Politika the US’ “secret collaboration with terrorists is the reason why all attempts at a ceasefire and political transition in Syria have so far failed.” Following is the full text of the interview as published by SANA, the official news agency.

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

Opinion: The Aleppo Tangle and the Iranian-Russian Plan

Russia’s victory in enabling the regime and Iran’s militias to enter eastern Aleppo will comprise a major turning point in the Syrian war and will lead to a major disruption in the balance of forces to favor Iran, its militias, and the Assad regime

Opinion: Lausanne… Conflicting Paths

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.

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.

Opinion: Opposition on Verge of Abandoning Political Process

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

Rural Lattakia: No Jobs, Unemployment Over 70%

According to a local journalist, unemployment exceeded 70% of people at the beginning of the Russian military campaign in Lattakia, but now he expected it to have become higher.

Opinion: Let Us Announce Our Defeat

“It is Syrians alone — opposition or loyalist — who have no interest in continuing the conflict and this absurd war, and this back and forth between two nihilistic forces, the regime and its opposition”

Opinion: Syria and the US Elections

Bashar al-Assad and the Iranians are working to impose their agenda on the next US president from now

Salamah Kilah: America Sold Syria to Russia

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 Assad’s Interview With AP

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:

Was it Assad or the Russians?

Besides the U.S., no one but Assad and the Russians has an air force in Syria

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.

Obama’s Winning Battles 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”

The Turkish Incursion in the North and its Dimensions

“What happened recently for the Turkish leadership to decide to send its tanks and soldiers inside Syrian territory and support some of the rebel groups to regain Jarablus from ISIS?”

Why Do the Kurds Insist on Being the Country’s Achilles’ Heel?

Until recently, Damascus saw the Kurds as an ally able to help pressure a wide geographical area that needed hundreds of thousands of soldiers and at the same time would constitute a thorn in the Turkish throat, which was greedy to swallow Syrian geography and people at the same time.

Iran After Russia… and the Lessons of the Turkish Turnaround

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.

Assad and Syria’s Kurds: A Change in the Rules of Engagement

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

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

Hysterical Assad & Allies Attacks Kill 400 Civilians in One Week

In a statement released on Sunday, the Syrian Coalition said that the spectacular gains recently made by rebel and FSA forces in Aleppo have brought in near hysteria on Assad and his allies, making them commit wholesale massacres against the Syrian people

Interim PM Abu Hatab Visits Airstrike-stricken Saraqib, Idlib

The most violent strikes targeted the public market, medical centers, and the blood bank building. Three civil defense ambulances and a vehicle were destroyed in the Russian airstrikes on the rebel-held town

End of Aleppo’s Siege Changes Syria Talks Agenda

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

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

Three News Items That Did Not Receive Syrians’ Attention

Three events passed with unusually little interest from Syrians, which suggests that it is up to Syrians, who are the true stakeholders in preserving the unity of their country and the dignity of their people, to think of other ways to end their tragedy

Has Nusra Broken Ties With Al-Qaeda?

Syrians see the affiliation of Nusra with Al-Qaeda as a reason for dragging woe upon the Syrian revolution and the areas in which Nusra is present

Dawn of a Solution in Syria and the Russian Role

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

Nusra Front’s Messages to America

Al-Qaeda’s affiliate in Syria responds to story in US newspaper accusing the Front of “plotting external operations against Europe and the US” as the two world powers gear up for strikes against the group

Opinion: American-Russian Agreement – What Are Our Alternatives?

“All the indicators and data indicate that this deal is on the way to being implemented, and it may be in Russia’s interest that it succeeds, because it would make it easier for them to pull back or limit their involvement in Syria”

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 Rebels Take Zaitan From Regime Forces

Islamist rebel alliance declares new offensive to recapture towns from fighters loyal to Bashar al-Assad after successfully taking Zaitan in southern Aleppo

Social Media Users Celebrate ‘Death’ of Baghdadi

Unconfirmed reports of the death of Islamic State Caliph send social media sites into a frenzy as intelligence officials downplay likelihood of leader’s killing

Syrian Crisis Beats German Crisis in World War II

Aleppo remains the most destroyed and devastated, representing 58% of the ruined surfaces in Syria due to the regime’s heavy bombing, with explosive barrels and Russian missiles

Russia Leads Alliance Between Kurds, Regime Forces in Raqqa, Aleppo

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

Monitor: 872 Civilians Killed in Syria During May

New report says high percentage of women and children casualties represents a “stark indication of the deliberate targeting of civilians by regime forces”

Waiting to Die

We spent the whole month of Ramadan living in fear.

Russia Pens Draft Constitution for Syria

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

Truce in Aleppo City ‘Very Fragile’: Peskov

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

A Story of Grief, Poverty and Pain

For a year, I worked at a factory that makes plastic, but then it closed down so I joined an opposition militia. I left them a short while ago and am currently looking for a job

Opinion: Syria – What is Russia up to Now?

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

Russia Complicit in Assad’s Crimes in Aleppo: Meslet

Opposition spokesman says Russia’s support for the Assad regime’s campaign against Aleppo is proof that it does not want a political solution to the crisis

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

The Syrian Truce and the Siege of Turkey

Before the implementation of the truce, Russia attacked opposition-held areas in the north and Aleppo and cut supply routes and arms and fighters’ corridor from Turkey

Palmyra: A City Without Residents

Around 70,000 people have fled Palmyra during the recent regime-led offensive to retake the desert city from the Islamic State

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?”

SDF Fighters Retake Tal Abyad from ISIS

At least 70 ISIS fighters killed in the recapture of the northern border town by Western-backed forces, says spokesman

How Will the Russia-US Deal Strengthen Nusra and ISIS in Syria?

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

Aleppo Province Council Operating Out of Tent Near Azaz

Council forced to work from a tent near the Turkish border after opposition factions, Syrian forces and Russian bombing displaced members and their families from northern Aleppo

SDF Caught Looting Aleppo Villages: Activists

Activists claim images show Western-backed group transporting furniture and electronic devices out of Tel Rifaat and other nearby villages towards Kurdish-administered areas

Assad To Spanish Paper: ’80 Countries Support Terrorists in Syria’

Bashar al-Assad said on Saturday he was ready for a ceasefire, on condition “terrorists” did not use a lull in fighting to their advantage and that countries backing insurgents halted support for them. Below is the interview as published by the Syrian news agency SANA

Opinion: The West London Friends and Syria

The strangest story is that of the famous British music band the “Beatles” that appeared in the 60s and whose songs are still listened to

Opinion: Saudi Ground Intervention in Syria

Fighting on the ground in Syria appears to be reaching a new approach and is the first time that Saudi Arabia is willing to participate in a ground offensive to fight ISIS in Syria

What are Syrians’ Options After the Failure of Geneva?

It is necessary that the Syrian people and the opposition’s political and military institutions seriously consider their options in order to prevent the continuation of destruction in Syria and forestall the displacement of Syrians

The White Helmets: Syria’s Humanitarian Treasure

Despite the daily horrors and dangers, civil defense workers have devoted their lives to saving and assisting the Syrian people in the most extreme circumstances

Opinion: ‘As-Salaam Alaikum, Mr. Envoy’

Despite doctors’ continuous warnings to stay away from the video, the brutal and ugly content, I eventually dared to follow the envoy’s speech, to try to find a glimmer of hope or beam of light for the great Syrian people — or what remains of it

His Father’s Legacy is a Hole in the Ground

“After my father died, we continued digging the hole so we could have a place to hide from the planes that fly over our heads every day to take photos and bomb us”

Lavrov’s Proposal for Geneva: ‘Russian List’ Battles With ‘Riyadh List’

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”

Russia and U.S. Compete to Control Northern Hassakeh City

The Russian influence has resulted in preventing the “Syrian Democratic Forces” from advancing toward al-Shadadi, an oil-rich region, and turning to fight the Islamic State along the fronts of the Aleppo countryside.

‘Russian Obstacles’ Threaten Geneva

Russia “is insistent on dragging names into the list of the Syrian opposition delegation to the Geneva negotiations, with the aim of derailing the talks and gaining time to improve its allies’ military position.”

Exaggerated Fears and Hopes About Syria

The haze surrounding the Syrian issue has led to many overstatements by political analysts, politicians, and even ordinary Syrians, both in relation to the fears and dangers threatening Syria, and to the hopes of Syrians

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

A Most Critical Turn in the History of the Syrian Revolution

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

The Last Friends of Sednaya Prison

In May 2011, following Syria’s popular uprising, around 1,500 detainees were released from the country’s most notorious prisons under presidential decree. Four of these detainees would later go on to form some of Syria’s most radical Islamist factions, and fundamentally change the course of the revolution

A Syrian Settlement With the Omission of Assad’s Fate

Representatives at the Vienna II conference agreed to disregard all points that were scheduled for discussion, even those which remain disputed, in order to settle one specific issue: the elimination of ISIS and other terrorist groups

The Assassination of Samir Kuntar: An Embarrassment for Iran, Hezbollah

“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”

Aleppo Rebels Overstretched as Attack Shifts to Defense

Opposition factions in Aleppo are currently fighting on several fronts, including against ISIS and Kurdish militias in the northern countryside, and against the regime in the province’s south, west and north

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.

One Man’s Unique Simplicity is His Only Weapon Against the War

“Many days I go to work in the morning without eating under the pretext that I am fasting, in order to leave something for my poor wife to eat during my absence. She thinks I am a saint or something, while in fact I would live on a cigarette and a cup of coffee that I prepare in my shop”

France, Germany Open European Window to Assad

Paris puts military cooperation against ISIS in the framework of a political solution, while Moscow pushes for a map of non-European-backed militant groups

Why I Went to Vienna and Held 10 Meetings with Others

In light of the multiple wars in Syria, Vienna was a place for a new war that will end all the other wars, a “war of wills” that is happening around a table supervised by the UN, but in fact it is the table of the US-Russian negotiations.

Vienna and the Challenges of the Syrian Issue

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

1,700 Syrian Turkmen Flee Regime Attacks to Turkey

Up to 30,000 inhabitants of the mountainous Bayir Bucak area could be forced from their homes in attacks on Turkmen and Arab villages, says Turkish governor

Vienna II: Much Ado About Nothing

These talks have exhibited these countries’ clear abandonment of their responsibility to protect Syrian civilians and maintain the security and integrity of the members of the international community

Syrian Opposition Says Vienna Statement Not Up to Snuff

“The Vienna statement is a reflection of Russian efforts, which began with a military intervention in Syria, killing Syrians for a month and a half,” Coalition member states

Is ISIS Triumphing?

This thought crosses one’s mind after the fall of the Russian tourist plane in Sinai, the accompanying diplomatic developments and the complications between the parties concerned

SNHR: 1,771 Syrians Killed in October

Regime forces and allied militias responsible for the deaths of at least 793 civilians last month alone, UK-based monitoring group reports

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?

Russia Struggles to Hide its Casualties in Syria

Ukrainian intelligence sources claim the bodies of 26 Russian soldiers killed in Syria were secretly transported to a Crimean port city in the past few days

Opinion: Syria and the Three Impossibilities

“Despite the fog that surrounds the fate of Syria, everybody should know that there are three impossibilities that must be considered when finding a solution to the crisis”

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

Is There Anyone Left to Defend Syrians Today?

Syria’s current representation consists of two parties: the regime’s mafia, which is willing to destroy Syria and displace its entire people to remain in power, and a divided and ineffective opposition which has failed to achieve anything over the past five years

Assad Gives Interview to Hezbollah’s al-Manar

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

Opinion: What Happened Between Opposition and Kremlin in Moscow?

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

Could This Be the Beginning of a Solution to the Syrian Crisis?

“Many observers believe that the shifts we are now witnessing will not be like what preceded them, and we may see a significant result if the ongoing negotiations between the active regional and international players goes well”

Bogdanov: Moscow’s Position on Syria Unchangeable

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

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?

Extended Interview With Zahran Alloush

Army of Islam commander speaks with al-Souria Net on Iran’s growing influence inside the regime, plans for the reconstruction phase following Assad’s fall, and accusations about the groups human rights abuses

In the Countdown to Assad’s Downfall

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

De Mistura to Hold ‘Bilateral Consultations’ in Geneva

UN envoy will hold separate consultations with Syrian, regional and international parties prior to administering recommendations on a third Geneva conference
, diplomatic sources claim

Analyst: De Mistura’s Syria Plan Risks ‘Another Srebrenica’

Khaled Yacoub Oweis, a visiting fellow at SWP, the German international affairs think tank, argues that the objective of international envoy to Syria Staffan de Mistura should be the protection of civilians and not the creation of freeze zones, which, short of a balance of interests on the ground, will become killing fields

Opinion: the Four Players in the Syrian Arena

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

France's Position on Syria
 and ISIS

Guigou says France should support Russian and UN efforts to reach an interim agreement while working on a solution with parties willing to accept a democratic change

Lavrov: Syrian Meetings in Moscow Positive

Lavrov says positive reactions came not only from those who participated in the meeting, but also from opposition figures who did not attend

Assad to Foreign Affairs Magazine: Human Rights Violations Rare in Syria

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

I am the Syrian Charlie

I was killed by an army that holds my own nationality because the same leaders who marched in Paris a few days ago kept their mouths shut

A Call From Prison: Louay Hussein

BSS President says Syrian talks require ‘real’ sponsorship from Moscow to be successful

Kerry Supports Syria Peace Push by Russia

“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

Moscow 1 Suffers Further Boycotts

More opposition parties boycott Moscow 1, causing the regime to consider lowering the attendance of its delegation

A Letter to Those Attending Moscow 1

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

Mikdad: Russia Stands by Syria in Combating Terror

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

Opinion: Assad will Use a Truce to Rearm

Assad would exit power and a hybrid administration consisting of the remains of the current government and the moderate opposition would be formed, and each party would continue to control the areas it currently oversees

Waiting to Die in Aleppo

Christoph Reuter is one of the few journalists who still risk their lives to visit Syria and writes about Syria for Der Spiegel. This story is republished in The Syrian Observer with the permission of the writer

US Syria Envoy: We Believe in the Unity of Syria

Asharq Al-Awsat speaks with the US State Department’s Daniel Rubinstein about continuing efforts to secure a political solution to the conflict

Russian-Syrian Cooperation Committee Meetings Kick Off

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

Cabinet Approves Bill Regulating Firefighting

Halki also asked that requirements of agricultural production be provided, particularly seed and fertilizer, and that grain mills are functioning

Opinion: Assad’s ISIS Gambit II

Mouallem’s statement coincided with one from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov calling for coordination with the relevant countries

What is Going on in Oslo?

Regime refused to participate in the ‘second track’ diplomacy meeting

Syria: One Year Later

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

Russia to Provide Regime With Fighting Helicopters

The helicopters requested have electronic-visual system, besides being able to perform live video recording as well as the ability to identify and follow targets electronically

The Assad Regime: Winning on Points

The Assad regime is clawing its way back to a position of dominance in the Syrian conflict. But it can only maintain that position as long as the armed conflict endures

Seyda: Opposition Lacks Political Vision, Favoritism Rife

In an interview, Abdul Basset Seyda, a member of the political committee of the Syrian National Coalition criticizes the opposition for not being able to draw a political vision for the revolution

A journey through Syria’s Daraa

Journalist Firas Choufi drives through the province of Daraa, where the revolution broke out 3 years ago

Expert Explains Regime Economic Survival Strategies

In an attempt to understand the strategies the Syrian regime uses to keep the dollar exchange rate at 150 Syrian Pounds, Zaman al-Wasl spoke with economist and researcher, Samir Seifan

Syrian Dissidents Return to Damascus

In a telephone interview to a hotel in Damascus, opposition figure says agreement to compromise based on failure of the opposition abroad

Food Aid Resumes in Yarmouk

PLO ambassador lauds the Syrian government for facilitating the relief

Cell Sells the Organs Of Detainees

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

Idriss Ousting Remains Opaque

The SMC announced Sunday that Idriss had been removed from his post as head of the Supreme Military Council

Can Geneva Solve The Syrian Crisis

Is the ‘Free World’ truly interested in ending this conflict? Or is it a mere face-saving exercise?

Geneva II: Change in Light of Continuity

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

Assad the Guardian Angel

Assad enjoys immense popularity as the most popular Arab leader, the editorial in the newspaper says

HRW Annual Report on Syria

Syria’s armed conflict escalated even further in 2013 as the government intensified its attacks and began using increasingly deadly and indiscriminate weapons, culminating in a chemical weapons attack on the Damascus countryside on August 21

Opinion: Assad's last dance

Assad, preoccupied with his fireworks display on Syrian land, suddenly feels that his mission will end and his grasp on power will not last

Geneva II Inevitable Failure

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 Arab Spring: Is Syria the Last Stop?

The failure of the international community to support the Syrian revolution prompts questions about their real intentions

Delegation to Meet Geneva Sponsors Friday

A group of non-partisan Syrians will meet the U.N. Syria envoy Lakhdar Brahimi, as well as U.S. and Russian officials ahead of the Geneva II conference

Opinion: The Plan to Eliminate the Free Syrian Army

Despite all the massive support the Syrian regime received, it failed to defeat the opposition which is still competing for control of the rest of the country’s cities, and which once again has besieged the capital and blocked the road to the airport

Ali Saleh was Smarter than Assad

Saleh knew he could not continue as president after so much blood was spilled in Yemen

Assad: Our Battle With Saudi Is Open-Ended

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

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

Iraqis in Syria: No Choice But Damascus

After considering their options, many Iraqis chose Syria as the place to start over. Today, these Iraqis find themselves in a familiar situation

Syrian rebels reject Geneva peace talks

The powerful opposition group’s statement comes on Sunday as fighting rages on near the border with neighboring Iraq and in the central city of Homs

Transcript of interview with Jeffrey Feltman

Feltman tells Raghida Dergham not holding the Geneva 2 conference means that Assad will be running in the next presidential election

Opinion: Nobody Trusts America

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

What are the consequences of rejecting Geneva 2?

Walid al-Bunni, the former Spokesman for the National Coalition, asks if it is still possible to talk about a revolution of a people against a tyrant as it was in its first year

Presidential Election In 2014

Russia says that Geneva 2 is to be held toward the end of next November

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

Why the West is Wrong on Syria

I witnessed the massacre myself. I saw the bodies of men, women and children in the streets. I heard the mothers screaming when they found the bodies of their children among the dead

Opinion: Our People Are Paying the Price for Obama’s Deals

As a result of all this American hesitation in our region, some stubborn and oppressive regimes have succeeded in staying in power and maintaining the grip of their forces and their “guards” over their people

President Assad interview with Fox News

President Bashar al-Assad gave an interview to Fox News. Following is the full text. The interview was conducted on Tuesday by Former U.S. Congressman Dennis Kucinich and Journalist Greg Palkot

Mapping the Sarin Flight Path

Impact site in Moadamiya and Ein Tarma provide sufficient evidence to determine that sarin has been used there

Editorial: When Devils Reach for Headlines

Not content to force amendments to the U.S.-Russian agreement, the British and French have sought to make premature media announcements about expectations at the U.N.

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

Syria Welcomes Russian Initiative

Moallem said Syria welcomed the Russian initiative as a way to preserve Syrian lives and infrastructure.

Russia Trying to Avoid War: Lavrov

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

Syria’s Deadly Bureaucracy

A staggering 4.25 million, almost one in five Syrians, are estimated to be internally displaced

Why Obama Decided to Wait: Walid al-Bunni

Member in Syrian National Coalition, Walid al-Bunni says he is confident U.S. military intervention in Syria "is inevitable" but says U.S. hesitation is due to

Assad Calls Obama 'Weak'

The Middle East is a powder keg, and today the flame is coming very near, Assad says

Al-Anfal Campaign in Ghouta

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

The Syrian Shrapnel

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

Running the Gauntlet

A two-minute walk takes you not just to another city but to another country

The War to Liberate Syria

Waiting for the United States to change its mind and become convinced of the necessity of arming the opposition effectively would mean giving the regime an undetermined period of time to gradually eradicate the opposition

Opinion: The War to Liberate Syria

Waiting for the United States to change its mind and become convinced of the necessity of arming the opposition effectively, not just verbally and theoretically, would mean giving the regime an undetermined period of time to gradually eradicate the opposition

Chechan Group Enigma

Activists accuse the Chechan brigade of being a plant by the Syrian regime and Russian intelligence

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: Opening a new front against Assad

With Iran’s economy already struggling, a boycott of its products in the Arab world could be devastating. Russia could also expect a boycott of its products, says Shobakshi

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

Syria’s Strategic Balance at a Tipping Point

The fall of the Syrian town of Qusair to Assad’s forces shows that the regime is poised to secure its position for the long term. The opposition must address its serious shortcomings

Opinion: Obama, isolationist in Syria

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

Brahimi Hopes for Geneva 2 in July

The conference would begin with a high-level meeting over two days chaired by U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon

Russia Rejects Arms Deployment in Jordan

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Alexander Lukashevich said Russia rejects of the deployment of foreign weapons in the territories of Syria’s neighboring countries, saying it risked destabilizing the volatile region.

Kurds Support Geneva 2

Statement comes following visit to Moscow of Kurdish delegation

Opinion: The trap of sectarianism

Even a reverse reading of Afghanistan’s experience would be a misleading one, as the concurrence between the Americans and the Jihadists was an agreement of interest, rather than an alliance under one regional political umbrella

Opinion: On the Need for Al‪-Nus‪ra

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 Assad’s Interview with Hezbollah’s TV Channel – full text

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

Coalition Will Not Take Part in Geneva 2

The opposition National Coalition will not participate in Geneva 2 conference, while the moderate opposition group, the National Coordination Committee, says it would participate and that its delegation has been finalized

Israel in Moscow talks to halt supply of missiles to Syrian regime

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

Atassi Claims Relief Used to Buy Loyalties

A National Coalition leader, Suhair Atassi, welcomes any political solution in Syria but says Assad and all those who participated in the bloodshed and slaughter cannot be part of the solution

Editorial: The Path to Geneva

Syria says it is ready and open to go to Geneva talks with the opposition but the opposition is not

Moderate opposition leader Says High Hopes for Geneva Conference

The National Coordination Commission for Democratic Change (NCC), Hassan Abdulazim said Monday the group will propose new ideas and to the regional and international participate in proposed international conference to solve the Syrian crisis.

Syrian Press Editorials

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

Syrian Press Editorials

The Syrian press call Turkish PM to resign and accuses the opposition of contacting Israel

Can Russia and the West End Syria’s Chaos?

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.

Syria Rejects any Talks that Breach Sovereignty

Syria needed more details about the conference before agreeing to participate, but said the political decision on the principle of a political solution to support international efforts and combat terrorism was clear, Information Minister says

Terms of Secret U.S.-Russian Agreement: Tlass to Lead Free Army

Al-Hadath News, a Syrian website, has publsihed what it called the terms of the secret U.S.-Russian
aAgreement on syria: Tlass to Lead Free Army. The Syrian Observer translates and publishes this story with all possible reservation.

Ford tells Doha Coalition to join Political Negotiations

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

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.

Syrian press editorials

Syrian press editorials expressed the regime’s suspicion of the US Secretary of State John Kerry.

U.S Accepted Syrian Conditions: Assad will Stay

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.

Syria Welcomes U.S.-Russian Rapprochement

Syria welcomes the U.S.-Russian “rapprochement” to hold a conference to find a political solution to end the conflict in Syria, the Foreign Ministry said Thursday.

U.S Accepted Syrian Conditions: Assad will Stay

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.

Two Orthodox Bishops Held in Syria Freed

Two Orthodox bishops reportedly kidnapped by rebels in northern Syria have been released, an association of Middle Eastern Christians on Tuesday said in a statement citing Syrian sources.

Syria Took Decision to Fight Terrorism, Go to Dialogue: Information Minister

Syria’s Minister of Information Omran al-Zoubi says the “hostile acts” against Syria coming from western, Arab and regional countries including the smuggling of weapons and terrorists through their territories to perpetrate their crimes against the Syrian people and loot the Syrian oil.

Statement regarding Russia’s continued Arms support of Assad

The Syrian people find no justification or excuse of Russia’s continued arms support of an authoritarian regime adamant to hold on to power, against the will of the people, and at the expense of thousands of lives.

The Syrians between the Cup of Tyranny and the Poisons of Terrorism

Between a dictatorship and a less dictatorial tyranny that will last for a while, neither the Arabs’ situation during their spring nor the Iraqis’ situation a decade after Saddam’s fall is revealing that the hefty price that was paid is enough to launch a transitional phase, setting the foundations for the recognition of the rights of the other oppositionist as the only way to ensure stability and end the killing.

US-NATO Orchestrated War

Flanders warned against a catastrophic repetition of the Iraqi non-existed MDW’s, asserting that the same scenario, the same playbook seems to be used now in Syria with similar charges, pointing out that who has the weapons of mass destruction in the world today is but the Pentagon.

President al-Assad: Foreign Interference is Red Line, Unrest in Syria Will Have Domino Effect throughout the Region

President Bashar al-Assad said that foreign interference is a red line, adding that if the unrest in Syria leads to the partitioning of the country or if the terrorist forces take control of Syria, or both of the above, the situation will inevitably first spill over into neighboring countries and then create a domino effect throughout the Middle East and beyond.

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.

The Horrors of What Comes After the Image

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.

More Syrian Bloodshed

Al Bouti’s mosque was situated right next to the Russian embassy and the headquarters of a major Damascus intelligence apparatus, surrounded by barricades and troops of heavily armed soldiers. So how could a terrorist laden with explosive devices pass through such a security blockade?

Who's who: Mapping of documentation groups in Syria

Several bodies of international law provide standards applicable to the Syrian crisis, including international humanitarian law, international criminal law, and international human rights law

Kerry Adopts the “Russian Solution”

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.

The Syrian Coalition’s Closing Statements of the General Assembly Meeting

The Syrian Coalition defined the framework of a political initiative that is inline with advancements on the ground, while at the same time ensures achieving the goals of the revolution, the preservation of human life, stability, infrastructure

Alawites Not Responsible for Assad’s Survival

Today, the Syrians are fighting a security-dominated and suppressive regime that resembles all fascist dictatorships. However, it cannot be labeled sectarian, as Maliki says, because Sunni and Christian pockets are fighting alongside Assad because they share the same interests or fears.

Russia supports holding Geneva 2 Meeting on Syria

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, Gennady Gatilov, expressed his country’s support to holding a ‘Geneva 2’ meeting for solving the crisis in Syria to discuss specific implementation of Geneva Statement items.

Jamil: Political solution only way out of crisis in Syria

Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Minister of Internal Trade and Consumer Protection Qadri Jamil, stressed that the political solution is the only and inevitable way out of the crisis in Syria.

The Role of Israel in Syria

Israel is always interested in preoccupying its Arab neighbors in civil wars, and it is surely interested in dismantling Syria into small Kurdish, Alawite, Christian, Druze and Sunni mini-states. But isn’t Israel afraid of the presence of Al-Qaeda in a collapsed Syria?

Kerry: His View on the Syrian Conflict

The US failure to intervene in Syria has ruined everything that has been achieved—with great difficulty—in the war on extremist ideology and terrorist groups

Syria: The Forest and the Trees

Because Syria is a country of paramount importance, the issue there is not just about toppling the regime, while retaining the same inherited and historical structure, including the ideology, of the regime itself. Indeed, we are dealing here with a smaller version of countries like Germany and Japan after the Second World War, in that they were countries whose internal circumstances led them to destabilise their regions and subsequently the world.

Librahimi and the Keys to the Doors of the Syrian Hell

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.

Damascus without al-Assad and Cairo’s fears

Iran is a difficult puzzle to resolve. After losing Syria, as well as losing half of its oil revenue as a result of Western sanctions, Tehran may be obliged to agree to a truce and the freezing of its nuclear program. Even if this were to happen, Gulf States are still facing numerous threats, particularly with the al-Maliki government in Iraq explicitly falling under Iran’s sway.

The Syrian regime escalates massacres after lavrov’s remarks

The Syrian regime has pre-empted the arrival of the UN envoy to Damascus via Lebanon Mr. Lakhdar Librahimi with terrible massacres covered most of the nation and included more than / 310 / geographical points and locations with aerial bombardment using (Russian Mig fighters), since Mr. Librahimi could not be able to land in Damascus International Airport on Sunday 23/12/2007.

Russia Sends Landing Ships to Syria

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.

Three stories on Mikdad’s visit to Moscow

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.

Halfaya: Blood Sacrificed for Bread

The National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces reminds the international community of its moral and humanitarian obligations, as this new massacre came just before the visit of the international envoy, Lakhdar Brahimi to Damascus, and amidst the talk about new initiatives. The massacre also came after the world’s powers knew of the regime’s use of Scud missiles and their failure to react towards such serious violations by taking any serious actions necessitated by international laws and humanitarian obligations.

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

A statement by the National Coalition regarding remarks made by Haytham al-Maleh

At the same time as the National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces condemns the policies and practices of the Russian government and its stand in support of the Assad regime politically and militarily, it unequivocally states that the Russian government alone bears full responsibility of their actions without any blame to Russian civilians.

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.