In a televised address that signalled a dramatic evolution in the political posture of the Druze leadership, Sheikh al-Hijri voiced unambiguous support for the military operations undertaken by the United States and Israel against Iranian influence in the region.
The summit arrives at a moment of profound transition as Syria moves from the long shadow of conflict toward the early contours of structural stability, Ultra Syria writes.
Washington and Damascus are publicly emphasizing de-escalation, even as the underlying pressures for a broader realignment of regional power continue to intensify.
The core of Syria’s dilemma is its unavoidable geopolitical alignment, Ghassan Al-Mufleh argues in Al-Thawra.
This doesn’t means Syria’s economic crisis is over, Ultra Syria writes
By facilitating the exchange, US mediators are seeking to prevent further escalation in Suweida, Ultra Syria writes.
Envoy Barak expressed the interest of major U.S. companies in contributing to Syria’s economic recovery—particularly in the oil and energy sectors—and in opening avenues for international investment.
Legal scholars widely agree that general amnesties are extraordinary and potentially dangerous, Ultra Syria argues.
The United States has begun a full withdrawal of its roughly 2,000 troops from Syria, bringing an end to nearly a decade of military presence, according to U.S. officials cited by The Wall Street Journal.
Last Wednesday, an informal briefing was held in the Capitol building in Washington, D.C., addressing issues related to the protection of Druze, Christians, and other minorities in Syria.
Europe’s maneuver in Munich is not only about Syria — it is also a pointed message to Washington, Firas Faham writes in Syria TV.
I24 News reported that Syrian politician Fahd Al-Masri, head of the Free Syria Party, has emerged as a leading candidate for the post of Prime Minister.
The Syrian delegation, which arrived in Munich on Friday, immediately entered a series of intensive meetings with American and European officials, Al-Thawra writes.
Egyptian foreign policy analyst Mohamed Kamal told Syria TV that reactivating the Egyptian-Syrian track reflects a calculated move in a region where the rules are shifting.
The drawdown from al-Tanf and northeastern Syria signals what officials describe as a comprehensive US military exit from the country, Ultra Syria writes.
Brian Mast addressed Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa directly, underscoring that while the United States has opened channels of communication, it has not extended endorsement.
Maliki nonetheless outlined a key condition for any normalization: firm assurances that Syrian territory will not be used as a “headquarters or passage for terrorists” seeking to destabilize Iraq.
The Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), the all-female militia within the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), have declared they will maintain their armed presence despite the recent integration agreement between the Syrian government and the SDF.
The American shift coincided with a rapid Syrian military advance east of Aleppo beginning on 6 January
With the SDF file nearing resolution, attention is shifting southward to Suweida province, Ultra Syria writes.
Informed sources told Al-Modon that senior officials in the U.S. administration have warned the Israeli government against providing any form of support to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), amid rapidly shifting political and security dynamics in Syria—particularly in the country’s north and east.
According to previous Syria TV reports, Syria currently operates 54 diplomatic and consular missions abroad across various continents.
The U.S. President stressed that Syria’s economic stability forms an essential pillar of stability across the Middle East.
Syria must entrench eight essential pillars to attract domestic and foreign investment, according to Osama Al-Qadi in Al-Thawra.
Repeated statements by U.S. officials emphasized support for the new Syrian authority and for a unified Syrian state, Faisal Alloush argues in Ultra Syria.
Jeffrey made these remarks in an interview with Voice of America, rejecting characterizations of the partial U.S. withdrawal from northern Syria as a “betrayal of the Kurds.”
Barrack is in no hurry regarding politics. His obsessions are purely security-driven, Mohammad Al-Salloum argues.
The SDF experience stands as a vivid lesson: external power leveraged at the expense of national and social equilibrium is a doomed path, Diaa Kaddour argues in Al-Thawra.
Washington’s efforts “have been appreciated from the beginning,” the director of the American Affairs Department at the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Syria TV.
“The Israeli position is clear and non-negotiable. There will be no withdrawal from Mount Hermon”, an israeli official said.
KRI Prime Minister Masrour Barzani expressed “deep concern” over the assault on Kurdish neighborhoods in Aleppo, Utra Syria writes.
This latest round in Paris marks a shift from total deadlock to procedural engagement, Syria TV writes.
Axios also reported that Israel has proposed establishing buffer security zones south-west of Damascus and imposing a no-fly zone on Syrian aircraft near the border, in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal from most territory it recently entered.
While courting external support is crucial to ending Syria’s isolation, this strategy has come at the expense of domestic affairs, Malek Wannous writes in Al-Modon.
The Ministry of Interior is escalating targeted campaigns to neutralize these resurgent cells, which have claimed lives among Syrian army, General Security, and Customs Police forces.
Lifting the Caesar Act should be seen not as a final achievement but as a phase in testing the Syrian government’s seriousness in building a capable state that is both internally and externally acceptable, Syria TV argues.
Available information indicates that the U.S.-led International Coalition is now encouraging the SDF to engage in security coordination with the Syrian government.
The decisions shaping Syria’s future are being written from within.
Syrian security sources said the attack took place during a joint field patrol near a compound in the Palmyra desert
Political researcher Abdullah al-Kheir argued that the United States has adopted a firm position against political decentralisation or federalism in Syria, asserting that Barak’s comments reflect a strategic orientation rather than a personal view.
The meeting between Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Vladimir Putin appears to have offered both sides an opportunity to reassess the foundations of their political communication, Malek al-Hafez writes in Syria TV.
Syria’s path to economic recovery will not be determined by a single decision in Washington, Hind Khalifa argues in Al-Hal
Mohammad Alaa Ghanem, Head of Political Affairs at the Syrian American Council, confirmed that the vote passed with 312 members in favour and 112 opposed, calling it “the most difficult hurdle, now overcome.”
Ayman al-Dasouki, senior researcher at the Omran Center, pointed out to Syria Television that although the Caesar Act’s impact on reconstruction is substantial, it represents only one among many hurdles to rebuilding Syria in a secure and stable manner.
The U.S. Congress is preparing to debate a proposed amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would repeal the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, al-Modon writes.
Syria’s first post-Assad year closes with an impressive portfolio of diplomatic achievements, many argue, secured at the cost of domestic stagnation.
Khaled Khalil, an expert in Israeli affairs, characterised the assault on Beit Jinn as “an Israeli coup” against regional understandings.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with figures from the Syrian Petroleum Company (SPC) and the American energy giant Chevron, according to al-Modon.
Hussam Taleb, a political analyst based in Damascus, told 963+ that the Beit Jin assault, and the Israeli aggression that followed—met with local resistance—marks a turning point in the nature of Israel’s military operations.
In Trump’s newly envisioned regional map, Damascus is no longer an adversary to be contained but a partner to be engaged, Syria TV writes.
The village of Beit Jinn now bears the latest scars of incursion and confrontation, drawing international attention from Paris to Washington, according to al-Modon.
Admiral Brad Cooper, CENTCOM’s commander, hailed the operation as “a successful partnership with Syria’s Ministry of Interior that locks in enduring gains against Daesh.”
Both the capital and the SDF face mounting pressure from their respective patrons to reach political settlements that would finally close the eastern file and open the region to the international investment.
The Coalition raid in Marat, therefore, is less as an isolated incident than as part of an ongoing effort to prevent the reactivation of ISIS networks in Deir ez-Zor and beyond.
For Trump, insiders suggest, the ultimate signal of engagement lies not in hosting but in visiting.
Ahmad al-Sharaa’s recent visit to Washington marked a critical waypoint in Syria’s evolving diplomatic trajectory, according to Ulta Syria.
Abdi stressed the need for Druze and Alawite participation in any Damascus negotiations, al-Modon reports.
Israeli Defence Forces have intensified their incursions into Syrian territory, al-Hal writes.
The Russian leadership sees an opportunity to support Syria’s calls for calm in the occupied Golan and to contain Israeli actions, Syria TV argues.
What remains of Israel’s leverage is largely rhetorical, Iyad al-Jaafari argues in Syria TV.
Israel has categorically rejected President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s call for an unconditional withdrawal from the areas seized in the aftermath of Assad’s fall.
Official statements from Syria’s Minister of Information have framed the country’s coalition membership as political rather than military, Ultra Syria writes.
A Russian delegation visited Damascus, accompanied by a Turkish counterpart, to conduct high-level security talk, according to al-Hal.
haraa identified the United States as the only actor with sufficient leverage to moderate Israeli actions.
Syria TV reports that discussions will focus on sensitive matters, including the mechanism for integrating SDF forces into the national army.
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.
Rubio’s remarks followed the recent visit to Washington by Syria’s transitional president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, al-Hal writes.
Foreign Policy has published a penetrating report delineating the contours of Syria’s nascent political era in the wake of the Assad regime’s collapse.
The statement highlighted Sharaa’s renewed commitment to the fight against ISIS, Ultra Syria writes.
The upcoming round will take place in the Syrian capital and aims to begin implementation of the March 10 Accord, al-Hal reports.
President Trump expressed confidence in Sharaa’s leadership, telling reporters, “I’m in accord with President Sharaa, and I believe he’s capable of leading Syria toward success.”
The American establishment media have treated the moment with cautious reflection
Olabi stressed that the agreement should be classified strictly as “a security accord,” distancing the discussions from any broader political or diplomatic negotiations.
This visit is Sharaa’s second to the United States, following his attendance at the United Nations General Assembly in September.
haraa touched down in Washington in the early hours of Sunday for what marks the first official visit by a Syrian president to the White House since the country’s independence in 1946, Shaam writes.
Syria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ibrahim Olabi, welcomed the Security Council’s decision, describing it as “evidence of growing confidence in the new Syria.”
Sources indicate the facility is situated at the southern gateway to Syria—an area expected to form part of a demilitarised buffer zone within the framework of the proposed non-aggression pact currently under negotiation between Damascus and Tel Aviv.
Trump administration officials are saying that maintaining the sanctions risks derailing progress and exacerbating instability.
Abbasi said Hegseth did not provide operational specifics, only stating that U.S. forces were “carrying out missions in the region, specifically within Syrian territory”.
President Sharaa’s upcoming visit follows Syria’s decision to join the U.S.-led coalition against ISIS.
One source told Axios that Rayburn lacked sufficient support in the Senate to secure confirmation, adding that the administration “will go in a different direction.”
Large American cargo aircraft transported new supplies and personnel to bases in Hassakeh province, Syria TV writes.
On the World Bank front, Minister Barniya revealed plans for at least six technical assistance missions to Syria in the coming weeks
Rayburn’s involvement with the Syrian dossier has been shaped through a succession of pivotal roles, Syria TV writes.
Whether the Harem operation succeeds or spirals into wider conflict will be a crucial test for Sharaa’s leadership, Daraj argues.
Economist Adham Qudaimati told Enab Baladi that Syria’s economy stands on the brink of structural transformation, driven by international cooperation and legal reforms designed to attract investment.
Although Russia’s influence in Syria has diminished since Assad’s fall, the Kremlin is playing a long game.
The printing of the new currency has shifted from Russia to partners in the UAE and Germany, reflecting a shift in Syria’s international economic alignments, al-Ikhbariya writes.
Tom Barrack announced the lifting of sanctions on Syria, framing it not as an act of charity but a strategic decision to catalyse the most significant reconstruction initiative since the Second World War, Syria TV writes.
The Al-Bab operation was among the coalition’s largest in the region in months, part of a broader effort to pursue ISIS leaders across northern Syria, particularly amid the group’s recent resurgence in rural areas and the desert, according to Syria TV.
Syria is pursuing a $1 billion grant package from the World Bank, marking a significant step in its reintegration into the global financial system, Enab Baladi writes.
The renewed discussion of the Kirkuk–Baniyas line stems from economic and geopolitical developments that reopened the file after decades of neglect, Syria TV writes.
President Sharaa said Syria would seek to “re-adjust its relations” with Russia and underlined the need for stability.
As contacts intensify between SDF, Syrian, and American officials, debates are growing over the future governance structure in the north and east — particularly following media reports alleging that Abdi demanded autonomy similar to Iraqi Kurdistan.
Turning to U.S.-Syria relations, Shibani described the policy of U.S. President Donald Trump after the Assad regime’s collapse as “positive and deserving of the Syrian people’s respect.”
The Syrian delegation expressed growing optimism about the potential lifting of sanctions, particularly the Caesar Act.
Olabi voiced disappointment at the pace of progress, calling it “frustrating.”
The meetings led by President Sharaa and his delegation over the past two days have been described as a potential turning point—presenting Syria as a credible destination for foreign investment
The Israeli proposal would require Syria not only to remain silent on the status of the occupied Golan Heights, but also to accept Israel’s continued control over parts of Syrian territory, Marwan Kabalan writes.
The Syrian delegation expressed growing optimism about the potential lifting of sanctions, particularly the Caesar Act
President Sharaa’s historic visit is not merely a diplomatic stopover, but the start of a long-term dialogue in both political and economic spheres, Syria TV argues.
“We must rebuild ties directly and properly. I hope to meet President Trump again to move this forward,” Sharaa said.
A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department told Reuters the department does not comment on “decisions related to personnel or administrative reorganizations,” but added that “the core team working on Syria-related issues continues its operations from multiple locations.”
Sharaa revealed that a deal was close in July but stalled after the Suweida events, according to Syria TV
The event reflects a growing measure of international recognition for Syria’s interim government, al-Masdar argues.
The roadmap may not instantly heal Suweida’s fractures. Rather, it offers a scaffold for gradual repair, Syria TV argues.
Shibani stated that the Syrian government has drawn up a detailed plan to ensure justice, protect rights, promote community reconciliation, Ultra Syria reports.
Syria urgently needs international reintegration, economic recovery, and sustainable development, al-Hal argues.
As political “strangers,” both men promised rupture over continuity, upheaval over inertia, Wael Sawah writes in Daraj.
Contacts between the SDF and Ankara suggest a tentative thaw, reminiscent of Turkey’s pivot toward Masoud Barzani’s Kurdistan Regional Government.
Kurdish negotiator Ilham Ahmad met US lawmakers and diplomats in Amman this week and is expected to travel to Damascus for talks
Ilham Ahmed, co-chair of the AANES foreign relations department, met with Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shibani, signalling potential progress in negotiations, Al-Hal reports.
The vessel MJ Sofia docked in Tartous in the early hours of Wednesday carrying more than 19,000 metric tons of Romanian barley, according to al-Hal.
Syrian economist Dr. Karam Shaar told local media that political sentiment in Washington is shifting.
The call by an advisor of Ahmad al-Sharaa for the dismantlement of the Muslim Brotherhood resonates with a broader regional trend against the Brotherhood.
President Al-Shara welcomed members from both chambers of the US Congress, including Senators Markwayne Mullin and Joni Ernst, as well as Representatives Jason Smith and Jimmy Panetta.
Observers point to three possible trajectories: escalation if moderate voices are ignored, containment through genuine reconciliation and political inclusion, or internationalization if outside powers intervene.
U.S. Congressman Abraham Hamadeh met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani during a brief, unannounced visit to Damascus, following a trip to Israel, according to a statement on Hamadeh’s official website.
Russia’s involvement in Qamishli dates back to late 2019, when it positioned itself as a buffer force between the SDF and Turkish troops, Daraj writes.
Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that Suweida and its local communities remain an integral part of the Syrian Arab Republic, and that the rights of its residents would be safeguarded as part of building a secure, unified Syria.
Jordan will host a trilateral meeting on Tuesday bringing together Syrian, American, and Jordanian officials to discuss consolidating a ceasefire in Suweida province, southern Syria, and advancing a resolution to the crisis there.
The draft also proposes expanding humanitarian and commercial exemptions to facilitate trade with Syria
His remarks follow renewed clashes around Manbij, after SDF forces launched rocket and artillery attacks on the village of Al-Kiyariyah in the Deir Hafer district of eastern Aleppo.
The events of the coast and Suweida further eroded U.S. confidence in the transitional government’s ability to uphold basic standards of accountability.
Analysts view Damascus’ outreach as both pragmatic and strategic, Syria TV writes.
The Syrian delegation reaffirmed national principles, notably the unity of Syrian territory and rejection of all foreign military presence deemed illegal.
The meeting marks a historic first in the wake of rapidly shifting geopolitical dynamics in southern Syria—particularly the bloody events that have rocked the province of Suweida in recent weeks.
The Syrian transitional authorities have demonstrated a deep disconnect from the foundational ideals of the revolution they claim to represent, Khaled Waleed Sarhan writes The Syrian Observer.
From Ibrahim Pasha to Shishakli and Bashar al-Assad, every leader who misread the mountain has paid dearly, Wael Sawah argues.
Hazem al-Ghabra, former advisor at the U.S. State Department, stated that Washington is closely monitoring developments in Syria, according to Syria TV.
A humanitarian aid convoy entered the southern Syrian city of Suweida on Sunday.
Photos obtained by Syria TV from the scene reveal the extent of the destruction.
Israeli platform i24 reported that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa participated in at least one high-level meeting with Israeli officials in Baku.
Gulf sources cited by KAN said that the United Arab Emirates has been actively mediating between Syria and Israel, with Saudi Arabia’s knowledge. But Damascus minimizes the level of diplomatic contacts.
The U.S. envoy discussed with the Syrian president the future structure of the Syrian state and the agreement with the AANES, according to Syria TV.
In an article in Al-Araby al-Jadeed, Marwan Kabalan wonders at what cost would Israel agree to Syria’s conditions for normalization.
Despite official denials, Israeli and international media outlets continue to speculate about the existence of a quiet negotiation track between Syria and Israel, Shaam writes.
In recent days, Israeli officials have dismissed the possibility that Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa would agree to any peace deal without a complete Israeli withdrawal from the occupied Golan Heights, Syria TV writes.
U.S. and Syrian sources confirmed that Washington has shared intelligence with Damascus regarding the renewed threat posed by ISIS, Syria TV writes.
Israeli media suggests the Golan issue may no longer be a red line in future negotiations.
The New York Times reports that the Trump administration has lifted most U.S. sanctions on Syria as a goodwill gesture toward the country’s new president, Ahmad al-Sharaa
Trump’s decision marks one of the most dramatic shifts in U.S. Middle East policy.
Syria’s leadership appears focused on buying time and avoiding conflict with Israel while it addresses urgent internal priorities, al-Araby al-Jadeed writes.
The fragile understandings between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are facing renewed uncertainty, as Damascus abandons its earlier conciliatory tone in
The investigation, based on field testimonies, satellite imagery, and internal communications, points to a chain of command that runs through the Ministry of Defense, with particular focus on its spokesperson, Hassan Abdel Ghani.
The move is widely seen as a strong indication that the country’s new administration is making headway in ending Syria’s economic and financial isolation, al-Hal writes.
ISIS has ramped up its operations, targeting territories held by both the SDF and the transitional government, Ultra Syria writes.
The fall of the regime has spurred political and social realignment across Syrian expatriate communities, especially among Alawites, Daraj writes.
Despite concerns about Sharaa’s background, Israeli officials now describe him as pragmatic and independent of Ankara, according to Axios.
Barrack, who met twice with Sharaa in recent weeks, including during President Donald Trump’s landmark visit to Riyadh, underscored the fragility of Syria’s transition.
Sharaa’s perceived moderation and Syria’s strategic importance—especially its proximity to Israel, its Kurdish population, and its history with Iran—make it a higher Western priority.
Political researcher Sarkis Qassarjian sees U.S. policy in Syria as part of a wider effort to deconflict regional rivalries and create space for long-term economic projects, Ultra Syria writes.
The U.S. State Department reiterated its ongoing support for the Syrian transitional government, emphasizing the need for transparency in its decision-making process.
U.S. Special Envoy for Syria Thomas Barak confirmed to the agency that Washington had reached a “verbal understanding” with the Syrian transitional government regarding the plan
This is Barrack’s second major appearance in the region, following what was described as a “historic” trip to Damascus earlier this year, Syria TV writes.
The visit is anticipated to include a series of official engagements, with the UN address serving as the centrepiece, Syria TV writes.
The drawdown follows an earlier announcement by the U.S. Department of Defense on 18 April, in which Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed plans to reduce American troop numbers in Syria, Enab Baladi writes.
While the transitional Syrian government has taken steps to contain and restrict the movements of foreign combatants, the issue has proven deeply complex, al-Hal writes.
Barak praised the evolving cooperation between the United States and Turkey on Syria, according to Syria TV.
Western policy towards Syria’s new regime blends incentives with discipline—a “diplomacy of conditionalities.”
Barrack’s language reveals much about how America wants to be understood. In diplomacy—as in literature—meaning lies not only in what is said but in how the message is structured.
SANA described the event as a “practical indicator of a new phase” in Syrian-American relations, Zaman al-Wasl writes.
“For now, this is about coexistence, not normalization,” one source involved in the talks said.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit to Bahrain on May 10 marked a significant milestone in Syrian-Gulf relations, Enab Baladi writes.
Some Russian analysts suggest the attack may have been aimed not at Moscow, but at Syria’s new president, Syria TV writes.
The al-Hol agreement signals a new phase of coordination between the Autonomous Administration, the Syrian state, and international stakeholders, Enab Baladi writes.
The meeting, which brought together top officials from both governments, was held away from the media spotlight, al-Hal writes.
While recognizing Trump’s move as a step in the right direction, Hof emphasized to al-Majalla the enormity of the task ahead: rebuilding a country devastated by over a decade of war, and reconstituting its political and economic institutions under international scrutiny.
The renewed U.S. diplomatic engagement in Syria follows a series of rapid developments, Syria TV writes.
President Sharaa issued a direct invitation to international and regional investors to enter the Syrian market and participate in reconstruction, heralding a phase of broad economic openness, al-Modon writes.
Turkey’s message to Damascus is clear: it supports Syrian reunification, so long as Kurdish military autonomy is eliminated, al-Hal writes.
Ford reflected on what America can still offer: not troops, but training.
International recognition—from Washington’s overtures to France’s diplomatic engagement—serves as a crucial tool to shape internal dynamics, Wael al-Sawwah argues.
In Lebanon, the decision opens long-blocked channels for energy and trade, 963 writes.
As the transitional government in Damascus, led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa, seeks to reestablish the country’s sovereignty and legitimacy, a critical window has opened for Syria to move from isolation to engagement.
ISIS’s appeal is unlikely to resonate with most foreign fighters, Manhal Barish writes in al-Quds al-Araby,
Syria’s Minister of Health, Dr. Musab al-Ali, joined delegates from WHO member states in a symbolic development, Syria TV writes.
Rubio’s remarks came just hours ahead of his scheduled meeting in Antalya with Syria’s interim Foreign Minister, Asaad Shibani.
The Sharaa-Trump encounter was far more than a ceremonial handshake, Syria TV writes.
This was the first meeting between a U.S. and Syrian president in 25 years.
Central Bank Governor Abdelkader Housriyeh described the sanctions relief as critical for restoring monetary stability. “This is not just an economic shift—it is a psychological one,” he said.
While the lifting of sanctions marks a dramatic breakthrough, the road ahead remains fraught.
What makes this moment unique is not just the shifting tone in Washington, but the rare convergence of interests across political lines.
During Sharaa’s visit to the Élysée Palace in Paris on Wednesday, Macron criticized Israeli actions in Syria as “unacceptable”.
UAE-facilitated dialogue could represent a tentative first step toward deconfliction or even longer-term security arrangements, al-Modon writes.
Shibani’s speech at the UN focused on one key theme: lifting sanctions as a prerequisite for Syrian stability.
Foreign Minister Shibani stressed in New York that the crisis only underscores the need for a political solution grounded in sovereignty and internal consensus.
Despite refusing to join the Abraham Accords, Damascus affirmed its commitment to building a Syria that does not seek to threaten any other party, Syria TV says.
It remains unclear whether Washington has formally responded to the Syrian communication.
Shibani’s remarks acknowledged, at least superficially, Washington’s core demands: dismantling the remnants of Syria’s chemical weapons program and confronting terrorist groups, Enab Baladi writes.
The new interim government is placing its economic recovery in the hands of three seasoned technocrats: Nidal al-Shaar, Mohammad Yusr Barnieh, and Badr Yaarub.
Turkey will take a leading role in Syria’s reconstruction, backed by Gulf financing, researcher and policy expert Salam Kawakibi told 963 media.
Despite ongoing engagement, the United States maintains an ambiguous stance towards Syria’s new leadership, al-Araby al-Jadeed writes.
The Kurdish leader underscored the importance of recognising the Kurds as a fundamental component of the country, along with the rights to mother-tongue education, political participation, and the protection of women’s rights
The visit comes amid reports, including from Politico, that the U.S. State Department and Treasury are considering easing long-standing sanctions on Syria
Through this participation, Damascus aims to reassert its presence within international financial institutions and explore opportunities for economic cooperation with potential partners.
While the document covers wide-ranging security issues, it notably omits concrete demands for the establishment of a transitional government, constitutional reform, or implementation of transitional justice.
Sharaa is seen as a stabilising figure in a chaotic transition, someone who filled the post-Assad vacuum when no other credible authority could
The list of U.S. demands calls for Damascus to issue a formal public statement banning all Palestinian political factions and activities on Syrian soil.
In the absence of a clearly defined Syria policy, two competing currents have emerged within the US administration, united only in their satisfaction over the fall of the Assad regime, Marwan Qabalan writes in al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The move comes after World Bank President David Malpass confirmed in remarks during a G20 meeting in April that the international financial institution is discussing debt restructuring for a number of troubled countries, including Syria
A panel discussion on Syria, held Saturday at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum in Turkey, proceeded without a single Syrian speaker—a conspicuous omission that drew immediate questions from the audience and sparked criticism over representation.
In recent days, the area around the Teishrin Dam has experienced a marked calm following months of deadly confrontations, North Press reports.
A senior U.S. official familiar with the matter told The Hill that there had been “significant internal debate within the administration” over whether to demand the closure of Russia’s military base in Syria
Economists warn that without U.S. action to ease sanctions, even the most generous aid pledges will fall short, North Press writes.
A comprehensive review of Syrian diplomatic missions abroad is currently underway, Syria TV writes.
Regarding the U.S. military presence in Syria, the State Department affirmed that no decision has been made about withdrawing American forces.
Foreign fighters are not viewed as political liabilities by jihadist leaders, but as ideological safeguards, Malek Hafez argues.
Putin’s message may serve to distance Moscow from accusations of supporting attempts by regime loyalists to reclaim power.
On the issue of sanctions, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce reiterated that the Trump administration continues to observe the actions of Syria’s interim authorities across various fronts as it assesses its future policy.
The U.S. administration has yet to finalize its Syria policy,
Putin’s message to President Sharaa underscores Russia’s intent to remain a central actor in Syria’s evolving political landscape, Syria TV writes.
The talks are influenced by fast-moving regional developments, pressuring all parties to act decisively in reuniting the country and initiating reconstruction before circumstances shift, al-Hurriya writes.
Kurdish political factions, including the Kurdish National Council (ENKS) and the Democratic Union Party (PYD), have reached a consensus on a joint political vision calling for a federal, decentralized system in Syria
According to Le Figaro, the Biden administration, through the mediation of Oman, proposed confidential discussions in Muscat aimed at resolving key issues, including the fate of missing American journalist Austin Tice
The committee is expected to meet with Abdi this Wednesday in the northeastern province of Hassakeh, al-Modon writes.
Vance revealed that Washington is conducting discussions with its allies behind closed doors, aiming to encourage Syria’s new government— which he described as “hardline”— to safeguard minority groups.
Despite diplomatic overtures and limited sanctions relief, Syria’s new leadership faces significant challenges in convincing the West that it is a viable and trustworthy partner for reconstruction.
U.S. mediation was prompted by growing military indications that President Donald Trump’s administration was seriously considering withdrawing American forces from Syria in the near future
The campaign has found an unlikely ally in Mouaz Moustafa, the executive director of the Syrian Emergency Task Force, who was previously a vocal proponent of sanctions against the Assad regime due to its extensive human rights violations, Shaam news writes.
The transitional government, led by Ahmed Al-Sharaa, has struggled to maintain credibility in the wake of events on the Syrian coast.
As geopolitical transformations continue to reshape the world order, Turkey emerges as a power adept at capitalizing on shifting realities, Samir al-Taqi writes in Naharnet.
Local Druze authorities were quick to reject Israel’s statements about the “need to protect the Druze in Syria.”
Syria’s new leadership, under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, is demonstrating a pragmatic approach to international relations
Israel’s more overt intervention in Syria coincided with the deeply flawed National Dialogue Conference, Iyad al-Jaafari argues in al-Modon.
Israel’s intentions are becoming increasingly evident through both public and private statements by its leadership, al-Modon writes.
HTS’ salafi-jihadist factions have resisted its political evolution, seeing democracy and governance as a betrayal of their original objectives, Mohammad al-Abdallah writes.
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.
The United States’ decision not to sign the declaration did not come as a surprise to Paris, Asharq al-Awsat writes.
Key differences remain between the NATO allies—chief among them, the Syrian Democratic Forces, Enab Baladi writes.
Awda may have expected the Ministry of Defense to acknowledge his early arrival in Damascus and his subsequent trouble-free withdrawal by granting him a prominent leadership position in the ministry, Annahar writes.
Russia’s UN Representative said Moscow is keen on ensuring the participation of all political factions, as well as ethnic and religious groups, in an inclusive dialogue.
A spokesperson of the “Eighth Brigade” told +963 that the brigade is ready to integrate into the Ministry of Defense.
In his long-awaited address to the Syrian people, President Ahmad al-Sharaa sought to present a vision for Syria’s future in the wake of the Assad
Al-Sharaa also expressed his hope for improved relations between Syria and the United States, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and understanding, Syria TV wrote.
The Ministry of Defense, led by caretaker Defense Minister Marhaf Abu Qasra, accused the SDF of stalling negotiations. “Weapons must be under the control of the state”, he told Reuters.
The Biden administration adopted a multifaceted strategy to weaken the Assad regime and shape the transition in post-Assad Syria
Abdelnour pointed out the country’s severe liquidity crisis, particularly after the Damascus government announced a 400% wage increase, al-Mashhad writes.
“We are united in supporting the integrity and unity of Syrian territory and firmly reject any division projects that threaten the nation’s cohesion”, Mazloum Abdi said.
Mazloum Abdi, the commander-in-chief of the SDF, said kurdish fighters who joined the group’s ranks from outside Syria should leave if a ceasefire is reached.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
An SDC official told Asharq al-Awsat the meeting addressed “military matters only, including mechanisms for coordination and common issues.”
Syria’s transitional authorities announced on Tuesday the appointment of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham’s (HTS) military commander, Marhaf Abu Qasra, as the new defense minister, two days
U.S. State Department announced the cancellation of a $10 million bounty previously offered for information on al-Sharaa.
The Syrian American Group for the National Charter has issued a statement marking the fall of the Assad regime as a historic turning point and an unparalleled opportunity to rebuild Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Washington had sent messages to HTS to guide early efforts in establishing a formal governance framework for Syria, stressing that a transitional government should reflect the aspirations of all Syrians, +963 reports.
Joulani faces immense challenges in consolidating control and managing the country, Rania Moustapha writes in al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry blamed Assad for not resisting.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Under the banner of the “battle to deter aggression,” opposition factions continue to score major victories over the Syrian regime, Hibr Press reports.
This news round explores various stories from Western media analyzing the latest developments in Syria. The Syrian civil war has entered a new phase as
According to U.S. and Israeli officials, Assad might collaborate given his growing discontent with Iran’s presence in Damascus, Adnan Ali writes in Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
“What you call today the Free Army will be the army of the republic in the future”, Guler said, according to Enab Baladi.
“The Syrian community in Michigan is eager to advocate for Syrians and hopes that Trump’s policies will offer more support than his predecessor’s,” a member of the diaspora told al-Modon.
Diplomatic sources told Athr Press that “The United States can only end its presence in the region through a comprehensive agreement with Turkey.”
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.
One prominent shift between Trump’s first and current terms is the normalization of relations between Syria and several Arab nations, Athr Press writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
A political analyst told +963 Media that lifting U.S. sanctions on Syria depends on achieving a political solution aligned with UN Resolution 2254.
Trump’s approach to Syria has been marked by volatility and an inconsistent strategy, Wael Sawah writes in +963 Media.
Athr Press says that while Trump expressed a desire to withdraw and initiated plans for it, his decision-making was often inconsistent, influenced by his political mood.
From October 22 to 24, Russia is hosting the BRICS summit in Kazan, featuring over 20 world leaders, 963 media reports.
While Syrian regime media reported that the attack occurred on the Lebanese side, the “Voice of the Capital” website suggested it hit the Wadi al-Harir area, which lies between Lebanon and Syria.
The Syrian Negotiation Commission hosted a multi-session seminar in Berlin, featuring the German envoy to Syria, Stefan Schneck.
Lebanese Hezbollah is not merely an Iranian-backed faction; its leader, Nasrallah, was one of the most prominent leaders among Tehran-backed groups, Syria TV says.
Wood reiterated that U.S. sanctions will remain in place until there is meaningful progress toward a political solution aligned with Resolution 2254
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The situation in Syria remains highly volatile and complex, with various conflicts and tensions continuing to unfold across the country. In northern Syria, Turkish-occupied areas
Washington has reiterated its opposition to holding municipal elections in northeastern Syria, Athr Press writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
In Istanbul and other major cities, industrial projects have been particularly affected by the departure of Syrians, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
This development aligns with shifts in U.S. foreign policy, particularly as the United States aims to reduce its direct military involvement in the Middle East, Damas Post writes.
The project’s focus is on providing job opportunities for Syrians in the waste collection and recycling sectors, according to Shaam Network.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Putin also encouraged Assad to open up to Turkey and drop the preconditions for normalizing relations between Damascus and Ankara, Syria TV says.
Today’s news round on Syria highlights several critical developments impacting regional stability and the humanitarian situation. Jordan thwarted a drug smuggling attempt from Syria, with
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Hezbollah has denied responsibility for the recent deadly strike in Majdal Shams, which killed at least 10 civilians in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, contrary
“Turkey must collaborate with the Syrian regime on issues such as border security, combating terrorism, and the safe return of refugees”, Fidan said.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Damascus confirms that its main demand for rapprochement with Ankara is the return of all its territory to its control, Athr Press writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The recent aggression does not appear to signify a departure from previous rules of engagement, Samer Dahi writes in Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Lister highlighted the unprecedented nature of the strike, which not only destroyed a building within the Iranian Consulate compound but also eliminated a key figure in the IRGC.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The U.S. is moving beyond conventional strategies, exploring options such as restructuring the Autonomous Administration and SDF, Aqeel Saeed Mahfoud writes in Athr Press.
Syria said it was “rallying nations around the world to stand against this aggression”, according to Tishreen.
The US envoy underscored the importance of maintaining an open dialogue and fostering inclusivity among all parties involved in the region to ensure stability and progress.
While Ankara views Kurdish forces as adversaries, it has engaged in efforts to establish understandings and agreements with them, Aqeel Mahfoud writes for Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
An opposition figure told Enab Baladi that, if such a proposal arises, the Syrian Negotiation Commission will deliberate on it, but said they maintain Geneva as their preference.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Turkey’s regional diplomacy exhibited flexibility, with strategic maneuvers adapting to the shifting realities on the ground, Mohammad Fawaz analyzes for Syria TV.
There are three primary rationales for the United States to engage in substantive dialogue with Turkey on Syria, Mahmoud Allouch writes in Syria TV.
Mekdad criticized European Union leaders and strategists for their failure to uphold their vision of a rules-based international order.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Russia’s representative to the United Nations expressed concerns about what he perceives as efforts by the UN to bypass the Damascus, according to pro-government Athr Press
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
A key advisor to the International Coalition underscored the commitment to bolstering the alliance with the SDF, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
A foreign minister from an Arab nation, whose identity remained undisclosed, participated in a meeting with Congress members to contest the bill, Syria TV says.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The resistance’s achievements in Gaza are seen as crucial for the broader strategy of the resistance axis, Tahseen Halabi writes in al-Watan.
Initially, the SDF accused regime forces of killing several of its members, before shifting blame to Iranian militias, according to Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The Syrian Foreign and Expatriates Ministry issued a statement condemning the U.S. attack, according to al-Watan.
The Iraqi Hezbollah announced the suspension of its activities against US forces, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
In Shaaban’s view, the American forces within the Syrian Arab Republic are regarded as occupying forces, akin to Israeli and Turkish forces.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Syria links the increase in smuggling on the Jordanian border to “chaos” in Suweida and Daraa, the pro-government al-Watan says.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The recent statements by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan have cast a new light on Turkey’s intricate policy towards Syria, Abdulmunem Issa writes in al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Two weeks have elapsed since the departure of Ghassan Abbas, the Syrian ambassador to the UAE, without any announcement of a successor, Enab Baladi says.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Abdi urged the United States to prevent any new sales of F-16s to Turkey, according to al-Souria Net.
Insiders from the SDF revealed to Syria TV that Mahmoud al-Meslet could be a figure acceptable to Turkey.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria,
“Some friendly countries provide all kinds of support to terrorists,” Guler said, according to Athr Press.
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.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The war in Gaza has changed the way the U.S. feels about its presence in Syria, Abdel Moneim Ali Issa writes in al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The UAE is currently engaged in dialogue with both the Syrian regime and Russia to revive the provision calling for the removal of Iranian militias from the Golan Heights, according to Syria TV.
A prevalent theory absolves Assad of direct responsibility for the airport, considering it under Iran’s purview, al-Modon writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The Iranian foreign minister asserted that the fate of the war would be determined by the resistance factions, not Israel, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the U.S. Air Force targeted a “weapons facility” in eastern Syria, Baladi News says.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces also dispatched military reinforcements from Iraq to Syria, Baladi News writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Iran expressed deep concerns regarding the presence of US occupation forces in Syria, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
These attacks took place only one day after the targeting of the Ain al-Assad and Harir bases in Iraq, Athr Press writes.
Russia’s initial objective was to establish Syria as a secure base for its forces in the Middle East, according to al-Souria Net.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Sources told Baladi News that the reinforcements consist of drones, Iranian Fajr missiles, and advanced weaponry.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The recent Turkish attacks have penetrated deeper into SDF-controlled territory, according to Athr Press.
The U.S. Embassy in Syria affirmed its support for the protests in Suweida via its X platform account, according to Athr Press.
The complementarity of Iranian and Russian roles in the Syrian-Turkish reconciliation file is evident, Munzer Eid writes in the pro-government al-Watan.
Bahra represents the growing liberal movement within Syria since the fall of Baghdad in 2003, according to Abdul Mun’eem Issa in al-Watan.
Hill had visited northern regions of Syria, leading an American delegation on a quick visit, Athr Press reports.
The German envoy, like others, urged the Syrian regime to refrain from using violence, according to al-Souria Net.
New images indicated that Washington had supplied the base with new equipment, according to Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Syrian officials will face trial in Paris on charges related to their alleged involvement in crimes against humanity, according to Syria TV.
The SDF asserted that its entry into the town was the result of “mediation by several tribes with tribal forces”, according to Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Insiders have told Syria TV that the behaviour of the United States indicates a desire to maintain Arab influence in the Deir-ez-Zor.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria
A significant meeting between Ethan Goldrich and Syrian opposition leaders was held in Istanbul, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Sabbagh currently occupies the position of Permanent Representative of the Syrian Arab Republic to the United Nations, but will be transferred from his current role, according to al-Watan.
Syria is currently a manifestation of the international and regional power play, Athr Press claims.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Sabbagh criticized the misuse of the United States presidency of the Security Council, al-Watan reports.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Under the headline “A Fallacy, Not a Revival: Unmasking Deceit and Charlatans,” Al-Baath dismisses the ongoing protests.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
A noticeable pause by Saudi Arabia and growing discontent within Jordan have resulted in a stagnation of Arab normalization efforts, according to Syria TV.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The Turkish-backed National Army in northern Syria has denied any coordination with the U.S.-backed Free Syrian Army, according to Athr Press.
The co-chairman of the PYD highlighted the ongoing conflict among major powers in Syria, according to Damas Post.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden is cautious about engaging in any military ventures in Syria, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Iran has been actively working to establish a popular resistance among tribesmen in northeastern Syria, Syria TV writes.
Saleh Muslim says the international coalition conveyed to the Autonomous Administration that they are unable to halt Turkish attacks, according to Shaam Network.
Mekdad’s visit to Tehran primarily focused on political and economic matters, Athr Press writes.
The “Great Middle East Deal” puts Syria as a land of frontier, Abdel Nasser Al-Ayed writes for al-Modon.
Clashes were triggered when the military police arrested a member of the Deir-ez-Zor Military Council, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The U.S. military presence in the northern countryside of the Deir-ez-Zor governorate continues to strengthen, according to al-Watan.
Damascus said the United Nations could use a border crossing from Turkey to continue delivering aid to Idleb, despite Russia vetoing the UNSC Resolution, according to al-Arabiya.
U.S. military leaders met with several notable figures from Arab tribes in the Syrian Jazira region, according to Athr Press.
Hafez el-Assad studies in Russia show that he is under Moscow’s influence, Omar al-Kaddour writes in al-Modon.
Al-Watan says the Ukrainian army established a special battalion for SDF fighters.
Your daily-brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The United States has consistently opposed the Arab and Turkish efforts to foster closer ties with Syria, Athr Press writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Washington perceives Syria as a battleground between two camps, akin to Ukraine and Taiwan, according to Athr Press.
Lavrentiev stated that all parties involved have endorsed a road map to facilitate the advancement of normalized relations, Athr Press states.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry expressed his disappointment with the European decision, according to Athr Press.
Oman is committed to fostering a sustainable environment of security and stability, according to Syria TV.
The UN envoy affirmed that he is closely collaborating with all stakeholders committed to advancing the process, according to al-Souria Net.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The United States had proposed to the SDF a joint military campaign to seize control of the city of Al-Boukamal, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
America intends on creating a new Free Syrian Army in Raqqa, according to Athr Press.
Various parties have recognized that Damascus serves the interests of all, Firas Ali Deeb writes in al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
HTS has adopted a new approach to handling foreign fighters who are actively involved in their ranks, according to Athr Press.
During a Security Council meeting on Tuesday called for the immediate, complete, and unconditional lifting of “illegal unilateral coercive measures”, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
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.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Saudi Arabia is attempting to persuade Washington to consider its approach by offering incentives to Assad in exchange for US support, according to al-Tareeq.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The prospects of the Constitutional Committee’s process resuming in the next phase remain uncertain, according to al-Souria Net.
The future resumption of the Constitutional Committee’s work remains uncertain, al-Souria Net writes.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
It is the US and the European Union that needs to encourage the Arab League to come up with a roadmap for the Syrian crisis, Bassam Barabandi argues in an op-ed.
The National Coalition highlighted that the Assad regime has continuously ignored Arab demands to cease killings, according to Damas Post.
Rizk Muhammad al-Obei, editor-in-chief of the Tafaseel website, was detained by the Sultan Murad Division of the National Army, according to the SNHR.
Qatar’s official position on normalization with the Syrian regime is tied to advancing a political solution, Nedaa Post reposts.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The secretary-general of the Arab League says that he favours Syria’s return, but that a final decision will still require negotiations, Athr Press reports.
American analysts are blaming the Biden administration for not opposing seriously normalisation efforts towards the Syrian regime, Al-Souria net reports
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Forty former U.S. officials and Syrian American political leaders have signed an open letter to President Joe Biden.
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.
According to a high-level Western diplomatic source based in Beirut, the Middle East is on the brink of several surprises, Athr Pres says.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
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.
The Israeli Mossad is responsible for the assassination, according to Athr Press.
Israeli analysts predict that in the next five years, Washington and, consequently Israel will face more crises, according to al-Watan.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The first countries to benefit from the Saudi-Iranian rapprochement will be Yemen and Iraq, Athr Press says.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Burak Akçapar, the Deputy Foreign Minister, will attend the quadripartite meeting in Moscow, according to the al-Souria Net.
The French envoy to Syria denied rumours that the Syrian Red Crescent, close to the government, was invited to the conference, according to al-Souria Net.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Assad has won by breaking down the psychological barrier keeping arabs away from him, according to Omar Kaddour for al-Modon.
The U.S. and global withdrawal from Syria encouraged Arab countries and Turkey to look for an alternative mechanism to resolve the Syrian crisis, according to Bassam Barabandi.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
The February 6th earthquake exacerbated existing shortages in the country.
Julani refused to admit any aid across the frontlines from Damascus to Idleb, according to Athr Press.
After the earthquake, Jordan’s foreign minister Ayman Safadi arrived to Syria on Wednesday in the first such visit since the Syrian conflict.
Once thriving neighbourhoods are now destroyed and unlivable.
Damascus is renewing its campaign to end the sanctions due to the earthquake.
Another disaster is unfolding whilst people have lost everything, and many do not have the means to provide basic needs.
“Diplomatic sources” in Ankara told Al-Watan that the U.S. is trying to sabotage Erdogan’s election campaign.
Iran’s involvement would reduce the potential for Turkey’s delays, evasions, and lack of commitment, Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
An expert told Athr Press Damascus will not provide free gifts to Ankara, but that dialogue continues.
Several Kurdish officials in Syria have recently expressed their fear of American betrayal, according to Athr Press.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.
Moscow says preparations are underway for a meeting of the foreign ministers of the two countries in the future, according to al-Watan.
Wang called on the U.S. administration to stop violating the rule of international law, according to al-Watan.
In the last few days, Damascus put forward conditions for continuing talks with Ankara, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Hurriyet suggested that the meeting of the foreign ministers of Russia, Turkey and the Assad regime would be held in January in Moscow, according to Baladi News.
The press has been debating where and when the upcoming meeting between the foreign ministers of Turkey, Syria and Russia will be held
Russia’s intransigent tactic at the UN is shaped by the belief that with enough resistance, the current cross-border aid will be switched to a crossline mechanism, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Nicolas Granger discussed several political issues with officials of the AANES, according to North Press.
The meeting of the foreign ministers of Russia, Turkey and Syria will be held next week in Moscow, according to Baladi News.
Iran also entered the path of rapprochement between Ankara and Damascus, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The HTS leader announced very early on that he rejected the Syrian-Turkish rapprochement completely, according to Athr Press.
According to information available to Asharq Al-Awsat, Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu will meet next Wednesday in Moscow.
These American movements occur at a time when attention is drawn away by Turkish threats to launch military action, according to Athr Press.
Washington hopes to be able to deploy along direct lines of contact with Turkish forces in northern Raqqa governorate, according to Athr Press.
Wheat sent to Syria from the Black Sea port of Sevastopol in Crimea increased 17-fold this year, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Hill indicated that the time is wrong to normalize relations with the Syrian regime, according to Syria TV.
The new Russian proposal was to withdraw the SDF forces and keep the Kurdish internal security members (Asayish) alongside the Syrian security forces, according to Athr Press.
SDF Commander tells Asharq Al-Awsat he won’t visit Damascus before conditions for political solution are available.
The U.S. Senior Representative to northeast Syria, Nikolas Granger, stressed his country’s strong opposition to any military action, according to North Press.
The hospital is located in Kilis, five kilometres from the Syrian border, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Türkiye only coordinates with its allies, Presidential Spokesperson Ibrahim Kalın said on Sunday, according to the Daily Sabah.
Turkey does not seem to have backing from the U.S. and Russia on a potential ground invasion.
The U.S. position towards the Turkish operation in northern Syria is surrounded by a state of ambiguity, according to North Press.
The Russian offer stipulates the withdrawal of PYD forces from Tal Rifaat and its surroundings to Sheikh Maqsoud in Aleppo, according to Orient Net.
Ankara wants the return of Syrian regime institutions as an alternative to the SDF, according to Baladi News.
The SDF suggested Turkish ground invasion despite U.S. assurances, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The SDF stressed its commitment to the de-escalation agreement with Turkey, according to Syria TV.
The decision to attack could come at any moment, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The SDF informed the coalition forces of its decision to suspend joint military and security operations targeting ISIS, according to Syria TV.
Erdogan confirmed that he did not hold any meetings with the U.S. or Russian president regarding the operation, according to Athr Press.
Turkey could start a major military operation in Syria, according to Baladi News.
The American and Turkish sides are pressuring each other in order to accept the other’s project, according to al-Watan.
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.
Rayburn said the U.S. should focus on the vital area between the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Zakros on the Iranian border, according to Zaman al-Wasl.
The U.S. is increasing its presence in Syria, according to Athr Press.
Lebanon is still mediating between the United States and Syria over the fate of American journalist Austin Tice, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The Turkish intervention in Northwestern Syria occurred due to American pressure.
Lavrentiev pointed out that restoring Syrian-Turkish relations to their normal level requires good intentions from the Turkish leadership, according to al-Watan.
WHO confirmed in a statement that a probe was ongoing, describing it as “protracted and complex,” according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Emirati businessman Abdullah al-Shaibani has revealed Emirati plans for tourism and real estate projects in Syria soon, according to Hastag Syria.
Azaz has seen street protests in the last two days opposed to the extremists’ entry, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The source claimed that the proposal came at the request of Jordan due to the constant threats on its borders, according to Athr Press.
There are some indications that Jaafari’s appointment may signal an acceleration in the Syrian-Turkish rapprochement, a Syrian pro-government media is reporting
Officials from the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) went on an official visit to the United States to discuss the Syrian crisis.
The Rukban camp witnessed protests against the removal of Talla’a, seen by some as a “symbol of revolution,” according to Enab Baladi.
The opposition delegation will continue its meetings in the U.S. capital, according to Syria TV.
Wael Sawah talks about the National Pact drafted by Syrian American activists in an op-ed to Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
A Kurdish politician said the solution to the Kurdish issue would only come from Damascus, stressing the need for unified position between Kurds, according to Athr Press.
The gas deal could increase Lebanon’s electricity supply from 2 to 10 hours a day, according to Syria TV.
The First Syrian American Congress for the National Charter was held on September 9-10, 2022, in Washington, D.C.
The participants called for a free, democratic Syria built on the principle of equal citizenship and the rule of law.
The U.S. strategy is currently focused on not leaving any vacuum in the Middle East that China may benefit from, according to Athr Press.
Doha and Washington are pushing against the return of Syria to the Arab League, according to Athr Press.
Erdogan wants to deprive his opponents of the Syrian refugees card, according to al-Watan.
Beijing could be waiting for the political situation in Syria to improve to boost bilateral economic ties, according to Athr Press.
During a visit to Moscow, Faisal al-Mekdad highlighted the importance of Syrian-Russian relations, according to SANA.
Ned Price stressed his country’s extensive and direct engagement with Syria “to try to get Austin home,” according to North Press.
The SV Konstantin appears to have reached the Syrian port of Tartous, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Damascus said it would not comment on the Turkish FM statements until they are coupled with actions.
On the tenth anniversary of Austin Tice’s abduction, Biden called on the Syrian government to help secure his release, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Russia insists that actions that could jeopardize Syria’s territorial integrity should be avoided, according to North Press.
Turkey said it is only seeking to “combat terrorism” in neighbouring countries, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The U.S. Homeland Security has extended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for eligible Syrians living there.
The Revolutionary Commandos receive ongoing military training from U.S. forces, according to Baladi News.
Turkish forces escalated their air attacks in areas under the control of the SDF, according to al-Modon.
Up to 24,743 civilians have been allegedly killed by Russian and/or Syrian regime action, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Israel fears the Russian-Iranian rapprochement will hinder its military operations in Syria, according to Baladi News.
Signed by Ankara and Damascus in July 1998, the Adana agreement establishes security cooperation between the two parties, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The regime is taking advantage of the SDF’s position to get more and more concessions, according to al-Modon.
Abdi said the U.S. efforts to prevent a Turkish operation in Northern Syria were insignificant, according to al-Watan.
The vicinity of the al-Tanf base was recently targeted by Russian forces in Syria, according to Baladi News.
The regime in Syria could not survive the loss of captagon revenues, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Participants discussed the Russian efforts exerted for Syria’s future and international projects in various fields, according to SANA.
Turkey is not satisfied with Moscow and Washington’s positions regarding its operation in Syria, according to al-Souria Net.
Ankara said there was “no need to hurry” a military operation in Northern Syria, according to Arab News.
Russia has been trying to prove its military presence in Syria since the beginning of the war on Ukraine, according to Zaman al-Wasl.
The U.S. is trying to make concessions to Iran to bring it back to the negotiations table, according to Baladi News.
The agreement is a breach in the wall of the regime’s isolation.
The U.S. does not want the Syrian parties to unite in the face of Turkey’s threats, according to al-Watan.
The International coalition arrested the Wali of Raqqa in Jarablus, according to al-Souria Net.
Despite unchanging frontlines, the Turkish operation in northeast Syria could be imminent.
As a Turkish operation in northern Syria looms, the Ankara-backed opposition is also preparing itself, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
An energy expert claims the regime exaggerated the positive impact the new gas well would have on the electricity supply, according to al-Iqtissad.
Ankara says it must act because Washington and Moscow broke promises to push the YPG 30 km from its borders, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The SDF would coordinate with Syrian government troops to fend off any Turkish invasion, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The U.S. said it opposes anything that might jeopardize efforts to keep ISIS at bay, according to al-Souria Net.
The regime has secretly arrested Amjad Youssef to avoid the exposure of other figures, according to Shaam Network.
Vasily Nebenzia accused the U.S. of expanding its illegal trade of Syrian grain and oil, according to SANA.
Werberg stressed Washington’s commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity, according to Syria TV.
Al-Watan expects that any Turkish operation in Syria would be limited in scale, focusing on a narrow strip of land.
It is never too late to pursue determined efforts to secure some semblance of justice and accountability. The Syrian Observer sits with Charles Lister.
Mekdad affirmed Syria’s keenness to strengthen joint Arab action, according to SANA.
The U.S. decision to lift sanctions on northern Syria had a large impact on businessmen in regime areas, according to al-Hal net.
The U.S. will allow foreign investment in northeastern Syria under the control of the Syrian Democratic Forces, according to Baladi News.
The opposition reaffirmed its commitment to a political solution in Syria, according to the SOC Media Department.
Seventeen Syrian humanitarian, human rights and civil society organizations called for an independent investigation into the Tadamon massacre, according to Baladi News.
Russia and Syria were not invited to the conference, according to al-Watan.
The U.S. Congress requested a detailed report about the wealth of the Assad family, that ought to be finalized next week, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
A book by Fredric Hof recounts the details of peace talks between Israel and Syria in 2011, according to North Press.
The Defense Minister of Israel said Assad must get away from Iran to be integrated in the region, according to Enab Baladi.
Israel is targeting Iranian soldiers and facilities, according to al-Hal Net.
The U.S. has allowed Turkey to occupy Ain Issa in exchange for cooperation on the Ukraine issue, according to al-Watan.
The law by Bashar al-Assad that criminalizes torture is a facade, but it is also an acknowledgment by the regime of its own brutality, according to Wael Sawah for al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The Syrian regime president might visit Saudi Arabia and Egypt after the UAE.
An Israeli website claims that after the UAE, Assad will visit Saudi Arabia and Egypt, according to al-Souria Net.
Members of Congress are accusing the U.S. President of reducing pressure on the regime in Syria, according to al-Modon.
The Syrian foreign ministry criticized the “U.S. occupation” plan to exclude areas in northern Syria from sanctions, according to SANA.
Will the visit of Assad to the UAE influence the latter’s ties with the U.S.? Al-Araby al-Jadeed answers.
Opposition groups in Daraa are claiming that the U.S. is getting in touch with them, according to al-Modon.
The visit of Assad to the UAE cannot be dissociated from global developments, according to North Press.
The Syrian government considered that the exclusion of the opposition and the SDF from Caesar sanctions would encourage them to secede, according to al-Watan.
Moscow and the U.S. consider that the two issues are separate, according to al-Watan.
The crown princes of the UAE and Saudi Arabia refused to cooperate with Biden on oil supply, according to Athr Press.
The Jordanian-Syria borders are used to smuggle drugs to the Kingdom, with the apparent knowledge of the Syrian regime, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The U.S. is using Syria to send messages to Russia over its war in Ukraine, according to al-Hal Net.
Clashes between the Syrian regime and the SDF occurred in al-Hassakeh, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The U.S. envoy under Trump noted said an integrated “road map” to impose a political solution in Syria was thwarted by Russia, according to Syria TV.
The Russian intervention in Syria was a demonstration of Putin’s capabilities, that he might reproduce in Ukraine, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
Faisal al-Mekdad affirmed that the relations between Syria and Russia are strategic, accusing NATO of provoking both countries, according to SANA.
Jaafari, the Syrian deputy-FM, has claimed that the Ukraine crisis concerns Syria, as it will determine whether the U.S. can impose a unipolar world order, according to the Syria Times.
Putin did not agree to give up on president Assad in Syria in exchange for greater influence in Ukraine, according to al-Baath.
Six people were killed as a result of terrorist attacks by the regime and the SDF, according to the Shaam News Agency.
The AANES is blaming both Washington and Moscow for Turkey’s pressure on northeast Syria, according to North Press Agency
The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service accused the U.S. of looting natural resources in Syria and encouraging terrorism there, according to the Syria Times.
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.
Iran is consolidating its presence in the border area between Syria and Iraq to facilitate the transfer of weapons, at the expense of the regime, the Times of Israel writes.
The permanent representative of Syria to the UN claimed that the U.S. was behind the events in Hassakeh, as it wants to revive ISIS, according to SANA.
The Syrian Military Public Prosecution stressed Thursday that there is no legal justification for the U.S. presence in Syria, calling it an “occupation”, SANA wrote.
European courts are using universal jurisdictions to convict perpetrators of crimes against humanity committed in Syria by the Regime. The Syrian Observer recaps.
The leader of North Korea condemned U.S. policy, the Syria Times writes.
Abdah claims to have received confirmation from the U.S. that there won’t be any caesar exemption related to the energy deal between Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon, according to al-Souria Net.
Luna al-Shebel said on Tuesday that the economic embargo against Syria is a form of war that should be resisted, according to the Syria Times.
Robert Ford argues that justice for all makes the political solution an even more distant process, in an op-ed to Asharq al-Awsat.
The Foreign minister of Jordan has called Washington for more exemptions from sanctions targeting Syria, to resolve the crisis there, according to al-Watan.
The mechanism for the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Syria ended on Monday, resulting in uncertainty about the future of cross-border aid, according to al-Watan.
SDF asks Syria for recognition of autonomy, Turkish soldiers killed in an attack, U.S. forces reinforce positions. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The first week of 2022 was a particularly difficult one for Syrians in Idleb, as regime and Russian forces are escalating their bombardment of the region.
No major changes in the position of America in the Middle East are to be expected, according to Robert Ford for Asharq al-Awsat.
The U.S. and France have each condemned the escalation in the Idleb governorate by Russia and the Syrian regime, according to al-Souria Net.
Iran is considering building a railway that connects the Port of Khomeini to that of Lattakia, on the Mediterranean, according to Arabi 21.
In order to fulfill their separatist dream, leaders of the SDC and the SDF are turning their back on Russia and the Syrian government, preferring to remain under an uncertain U.S. protection, according to al-Watan.
A Syrian citizen and a U.S. diplomat were arrested after Turkish authorities discovered the sale of a forged passport, according to al-Souria Net.
The energy deal between Egypt, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon, hides a wide array of geopolitical implications, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The return of Syria to the Arab League is not assured, as the regime delays taking steps expected from it on the internal and external levels, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
An SDC official has claimed that the U.S. administration is working on a mechanism to ease the impact of the Caesar sanctions on civilians in Syria, according to North Press.
Egypt wants a “clear document” from the U.S. to ensure that it will not be subject to sanctions if it supplies Lebanon with natural gas through Syria, according to al-Watan.
The U.S. imposed new sanctions on individuals and entities from Syria, Iran and Uganda.
SDF Commander-in-Chief Mazloum Abdi called for greater security cooperation with the Kurdistan Region of Iraq after deadly attacks there by ISIS, according to North Press.
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.
Moscow is helping Damascus regain control of the northeastern regions of Syria through dialogue with the SDF, according to al-Watan.
The SDC has expressed its readiness to participate in a “genuine, constructive dialogue process” with the Damascus government, according to al-Watan.
The SDF has to choose between Washington, Damascus, and Moscow, according to al-Watan.
Although EU countries have refused to recognize the legitimacy of Bashar al-Assad’s regime since the beginning of the Syrian revolution, this consensus is being challenged, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III ordered a new investigation Monday into a 2019 American airstrike in Syria that could have killed dozens of civilians, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
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.
Russia has planned to destabilize the northern and eastern parts of Syria in order to expand its influence there, according to al-Hal Net.
As the UAE bets on normalization with Assad to diminish Iranian influence in Syria, it remains unclear whether this strategy will work, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The presence of Iran in Syria is central to the policies of normalization adopted by Arab countries, according to Ibrahim Hamidi in Asharq al-Awsat.
While the West refuses to recognize his control over Syria, Assad has sought assistance from China and wealthier regional powers like the UAE, al-Araby al-Jadeed writes.
The administration of US President Joe Biden has set five priorities in Syria, none of which call for the withdrawal of Iran, in contrast to the previous administration of President Donald Trump, Asharq al-Awsat writes.
The opposition Syrian Negotiations Committee announced that it has received U.S. and European assurances that they will continue to apply pressure to the Assad regime until a political solution is reached, Syria TV says.
The UAE Foreign Minister met with a number of Arab and UN officials to discuss the Syrian issue after his meeting with Assad, Athr Press reports.
Turkey has suspended its potential military operation against northeast Syria, as a result of the continued refusal from Russia and the U.S., North Press writes.
The 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.
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi revealed that Jordan held talks with Washington before engaging in rapprochement with Syria, according to Athr Press.
As the U.S. neutralizes the role of the UAE in several files, including in Syria, Abu Dhabi’s move comes to expand its margin in the region, Mohamed Sarmini writes in Nedaa Post.
The recent move by the UAE, which sent its top diplomat to Syria to meet the regime’s president Bashar al-Assad, comes in a period of American disinterest for the Syria file.
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.
Turkey is obstructing the entry of UN relief aid convoys “across established lines” from Aleppo to the “de-escalation” area of Idleb, according to al-Watan.
An upcoming U.S. Russian meeting in Geneva between Brett McGurk and Sergey Vershinin will discuss the situation in Syria, according to Baladi News.
Anas al-Abda has announced a visit by a delegation from the Coordinating Committee to Turkey to meet opposition and Turkish officials, according to Nedaa Post.
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.
A U.S. diplomat confirmed that President Joe Biden did not give the Turkish President a green light to launch a new attack against the SDF, according to North Press.
The Syrian Opposition Coalition has denied reports about a potential unity government between the SOC and the Syrian regime, according to Baladi News.
The parliament of Turkey has extended the mandate to launch cross-border operations in Syria and Iraq by two more years, despite the rejection by the main opposition CHP, Zaman al-Wasl writes.
The U.S. kills a senior al-Qaeda figure in Syria, Assad diverts funds from international humanitarian aid, and China condemns the Damascus bus attack. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The U.S. has abandoned its allies in Syria after it was defeated there, according to Bassam Abou Abdallah in al-Watan.
Anas al-Abdah has confirmed that the Syrian opposition has lobbied with western capitals to convince them not to normalize ties with the regime, according to the Syrian News Agency.
Turkish Defense Minister renewed his threat to launch an operation against the YPG in northeastern Syria, following attacks on Turkish officers and villages, according to al-Souria Net.
The U.S. Secretary of State said on Wednesday that his country rules out normalization with the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad, according to the Daily Sabah.
The “paper” provided by Jordan to western capitals about Syria includes re-engaging with the regime and providing it with incentives to commit to a political transition, according to Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The leader of the Syrian opposition has claimed that the U.S. does not intend to normalize ties with the Syrian regime, stressing the importance of U.S.-Turkish coordination on Syria, according to Nedaa Post.
Normalization with the Assad regime is accelerating, as the Biden Administration focuses on the far-east, according to Ashraq al-Awsat.
The economic and energy crises in Lebanon are an opportunity for Assad to restore his regime’s regional status, al-Araby al-Jadeed writes.
The phone call between King Abdullah II of Jordan and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad could pave the way for the restoration of Arab-Syrian relations.
The Syrian opposition president, Samer al-Meslet, has hinted that the U.S. favors the Kurdish-dominated SDF in Syria, at the expense of the opposition, Asharq al-Awsat writes.
The YPG in Syria just received more funding and military equipment from the U.S., despite Turkey considering it as a threat to its national security, the Daily Sabah says.
The U.S. denies plans to normalize ties with the Syrian regime, COVID-19 continues to wreak havoc in Syria, and Syria participates in Expo 2020 in Dubai. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
A “secret” Jordanian document has proposed a new approach to dealing with the Syrian regime, with support from Washington, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
U.S. officials met with representatives of the Syrian National Coalition, reaffirming their country’s commitment to a political solution in Syria, according to al-Tariq.
A delegation of the SDC visited Washington, where it received confirmation that the U.S. will keep supporting stability in Northeast Syria, according to North Press.
The U.S. has no plans to normalize diplomatic ties with the Syrian regime, and does not encourage others to do so, al-Araby al-Jadeed reports.
The Syrian delegation to the UNGA, headed by Foreign Minister Faisal al-Mekdad, returned to Damascus on Tuesday, after a short stop in Egypt, according to al-Watan.
In a press conference, Ilham Ahmed claimed that the PKK fought extremism, and expressed the SDC’s willingness to dialogue with the Assad regime and Turkey, according to Syria TV.
Washington has assured the Syrian Kurds it backs that they are not at risk of an American withdrawal, al-Araby al-Jadeed reports.
The Secretary-General of the Arab League met a delegation of the Syrian opposition on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session, according to North Press.
The International Coalition and HTS leader al-Joulani are cooperating to get rid of the Guardians of Religion group, according to Athr Press.
Following the meeting between Bashar al-Assad and Vladimir Putin, Assad finds himself torn between the conflicting demands of Russia and Iran, according to Baladi News.
The U.S. does not intend to withdraw from Syria in the near future, and is working to build an Arab armed group to protect it, according to Athr Press.
The Syrian regime is extracting political and economic benefits from the passage of Iranian oil through Syria to Lebanon, according to al-Souria Net.
On Sunday, Faisal al-Mekdad left for New York to participate in the 76th session of the UN General Assembly, which takes place next Tuesday and lasts for nearly a week, according to al-Watan.
Hezbollah began bringing Iranian fuel into Lebanon via Syria to ease an energy crisis, a move that might expose the country to U.S. sanctions, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Behind closed doors, a meeting is being held in Amman between international stakeholders to discuss normalization with Syria, according to Nedaa Post.
The recent concessions by Damascus on the new constitution talks are a way for Russia to extract concessions from the U.S., according to Asharq al-Awsat.
As Lebanon prepares to receive much-needed Egyptian gas through Syria, the general impression is that this bargain would allow the regime to rehabilitate itself regionally.
Excerpts from an op-ed by Wael Sawah, in which he calls on the Syrian opposition to suspend the political process and the new constitution talks as the regime continues its violent attacks on civilians.
Officials from the SDF have expressed their concerns about the eventual U.S. withdrawal from Northeast Syria, which prompts them to work for a political solution, according to al-Souria Net.
The recent events in Afghanistan reshuffled the cards in Syria, as the U.S. and Russia prepare for a new round of talks, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The recent Israeli attack on Syria and the subsequent Russian reaction showcased the increasingly frigid relations between Israel and Russia, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
An official told the al-Hurra TV Station that the U.S. military presence in Iraq and northern Syria will remain for the time being, according to al-Modon.
Iranian media reported that the ship carrying Iranian oil, heading to Lebanon, entered Syrian territorial waters, according to al-Souria Net.
Just like it ‘secretly withdrew from Afghanistan, the U.S. army might also retreat from Syria, a country where Washington has no vital interests, according to the Daily Sabah.
The recent extension of cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria has proved to be in favor of Russia and the regime, according to Syria TV.
Events in Northern Syria show that there exists secret complicity between Russia and Turkey, a military spokesman of the SDF said, according to North Press.
An “unexplained” explosion occurred in an HTS training base around Idleb, killing at least 10, according to al-Souria Net.
King Abdullah II and President Putin discussed the situation in Southern Syria, primarily its humanitarian aspects, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The Russian foreign minister said that although dialogue with Washington was encouraging, the path ahead is very difficult, according to al-Baath.
The situation in the area of Daraa will be of primary importance in the talks between King Abdullah II and President Vladimir Putin, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
A meeting is scheduled between President Putin and King Abdullah II to discuss the recent developments in Daraa, according to Baladi News.
Hassan Nasrallah called the U.S. claims of fighting ISIS in Syria a lie, accusing the ‘occupation forces’ of looting the country, the Syria Times writes.
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.
Ramzy Ezzeldin Ramzy offers in his op-ed two tracks for a political settlement to end the conflict in Syria.
The NATO allies of the U.S. are paying the price of the failed wars they’ve been dragged into, such as the war in Afghanistan, SANA writes.
Russia claimed that the U.S. military presence in Syria is illegal, calling Washington’s interpretation of resolution No. 2254 “ridiculous and ironic,” according to SANA.
Jordan is preparing to normalize ties with the Syrian regime, by paving the road through economic cooperation, according to al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Armenak Tokmajyan, expert on borders and conflict, Syrian refugees, and local intermediaries in Syria, explains to the Syrian Observer how the position of Jordan on the conflict in Syria evolved.
Alexander Zorin is a Russian officer who has skillfully conducted Russia’s policy in Syria, by building connections with several stakeholders, according to Ibrahim Hamidi for Asharq al-Awsat.
Syria strongly condemned the disinformation campaign launched by the U.S. against Cuba, in order to destabilize the island, according to The Syria Times.
The Ambassador of Russia to the U.S said on Wednesday that Moscow and Washington have conducted a constructive dialogue on Syria between experts, SANA writes.
Statement by the U.S. Treasury about sanctions on the Syrian regime.
In an interview after his visit to Washington, the king of Jordan stressed the importance of dialogue with Assad, al-Souria Net writes.
The Syrian Opposition Coalition has organized talks with Syrian-American organizations, to talk about lobbying to protect civilians in Syria, according to the SOC.
During a webinar organized at the American University of Beirut, seven speakers were invited to share the positions of the various stakeholders on the Syrian conflict and the future of the country.
The Jordanian King has called for the return of Syria to the Arab embrace, during a visit to Washington, according to Athr Press.
The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) has launched an online campaign to obtain international recognition, according to al-Souria Net.
A drone strike by the U.S. has destroyed a truck belonging to the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Front (PMF) militia, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
The SDF arrests ISIS fighters, Turkey’s CHP threatens to repatriate refugees, and the UN Human Rights Council calls for accountability against massive displacement. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The election of a new president to the Opposition’s coalition was met with optimism and pessimism by analysts, as some believed he would be able to move things up, while others believed he is but a figurehead, according to Nedaa Post.
Attacks by Iran’s militias on U.S. bases around Syria are a way for Tehran to put pressure on the U.S., as part of the Nuclear Deal negotiations, according to Baladi News.
While Russia praises the Kurds and asks them to dialogue with the regime, it prevents the flow of aid into Northeast Syria, according to North Press.
Ibrahim Hamidi claims the U.S has made many concessions to Russia in the file of cross-border humanitarian aid into northern Syria.
Ibrahim Hamidi explains that the military and economic situation are prolonging the status quo in Syria despite the Rome conference.
Ziad Ghosn speculates that the U.S. will not remove sanctions on the Syrian regime unless it gains something out of the bargaining.
Sources claim that Russia is willing to show some flexibility with regards to border crossings in Northern Syria, in exchange for Washington’s leniency when it comes to sanctions, according to Athr Press.
The SDF was not invited to attend the conference by the Defeat-ISIS coalition in Rome unlike Turkey, which doesn’t belong in this coalition, according to North Press.
Anas al-Abdah fears Russia will continue to use humanitarian aid to achieve political goals even after the Rome conference, according to Baladi News.
The US State Department held a briefing with members of the US administration to discuss Blinken’s upcoming participation in the meeting on Syria, the Defeating ISIS ministerial meeting, and the G20.
The US has secured the transfer of 60 ISIS fighters from the prisons of the SDF to one of their bases, according to The Syria Times.
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.
Analysts see the lifting of sanctions on the companies of a Syrian businessman operating in the UAE as a gesture of goodwill from the US to Russia, according to Athr Press.
The meeting between the two world leaders brings no hope regarding an imminent political solution in Syria, according to Baladi News.
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.
Syria condemned the sanctions imposed by the US and its allies on Nicaragua, describing them as a “blatant interference in the country’s internal affairs”, according to SANA.
The Syrian Foreign Minister has attacked statements by U.S officials about the Syrian election, according to Al Watan.
In a major policy shift, the president of the United States has revoked Trump’s era delta energy deal in North-East Syria, according to Al Araby Al-Jadeed.
Iran is doubling its effort to culturally influence Syrian society but is facing strong Russian competition according to the Levant News.
US President Biden’s policy towards Syria has not changed since Trump’s administration, argues Charles Lister, writing for Asharq Al-Awsat.
Former Syrian prime minister Dr. Riad Hijab has spoken about the need to reassess the international scene.
The Biden administration may be easing sanctions on Assad, writes Bassam Barabandi for Al-Arabiya.
A meeting between Egypt, Jordan, and Iraq will reveal the results of a Syrian proposal to fight Turkish infiltration, writes Asharaq Al-Awsat.
Tensions between Washington and Moscow will have various repercussions for Syria, writes Marwan Qabalan for Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Syria and Russia state that the US is supporting terrorist organizations with the aim to obstruct the return of displaced Syrians, reports SANA.
Former US Ambassador to Syria Robert Ford recalls how America misunderstood Syria from the beginning of the war, writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
As part of a series of interviews on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Syrian uprising, the Syrian Observer sits down with French diplomat Michel Duclos to discuss his experience of working in the country.
Hezbollah’s recent visit to Moscow may be in order to probe Russia’s allegiance to Assad, writes Iran Insider.
As the main foreign influence in Syria, Russia now has a considerable role in shaping the country’s future.
The US has transported dozens of ISIS members into Syria from Iraq, writes The Syria Times.
Biden defends US airstrike on Iranian-backed militia, the Foreign Ministry demands an end to “US aggression,” and Syrian Negotiations Committee calls on the EU. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Russia and the US are both funding the Syrian Democratic Forces, writes Baladi News.
US-backed SDF steals 140,000 barrels of crude oil every day, writes Al-Masdar.
The US is posed to pass an act incentivizing informants to share information regarding evasion of US or UN sanctions, writes The Syrian Observer.
Turkey may be forced to rethink its Syria strategy after the US commits to fight ISIS alongside Kurdish-led Syrian Defence Forces, reports Arab News.
Syrian opposition figures have proposed to Russia the formation of a joint military council, reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
The UN’s dream for political transition in Syria has turned into a nightmare, writes Burhan Ghalyoun for Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Russia’s special envoy for Syria has conducted a secret meeting with Assad and “guarantors” of the Astana process, according to Asharq al-Awsat.
A Syrian opposition member has criticized the lack of agreement over the Constitutional Committee writes North Press.
With the start of the Biden administration, decisions must be taken to as to how the US will proceed in Syria and what their next steps will be writes Arab News.
In a farewell message to the Syrian people, Joel Rayburn has said that the regime’s military solution has failed and that their demise is only a matter of time reports Sowt Al-Asima.
Donald Trump will leave office today, but what has he left behind in and Syria and what will challenges will his predecessor face?
Sergey Lavrov has said the Russia will not engage militarily with the US in Syria, but asks them to not to engage with the Syrian State writes Al-Masdar.
The US forces have been accused of transporting and sheltering Islamic State terrorist, to be used for their plans in eastern Syria writes SANA.
Seven Russian armored vehicles and dozens of soldiers have deployed in the town of Malikiyah in Syria’s northeastern-most region, used by the anti-ISIS international coalition and US force reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
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.
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 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.
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.
Foreign Minister Faisal Mikdad has met with Hassan Rouhani and discussed challenges that the two countries face and means of strengthening their relationship writes SANA.
It has been revealed that the Dutch Prime Minister interfered into an investigation of the Netherland’s involvement in supplying and funding terrorist organisations in Syria writes SANA.
The State Department has confirmed that it will continue to work with Israel to face Iranian threats emanating from Syria’s southern border reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
Russia has expressed its confusion, following statements by the US regarding the recent refugee conference in Damascus writes The Syria Times.
Following the death of Walid al-Muallem, Iran and Russia are waiting to see who will be his replacement and leading diplomatic efforts writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Syrian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Walid al-Muallem has died at the age of 79, after years of service and support for the Assad regime.
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.
With the election of Joe Biden, it is expected that there will be a change in US policy in the region, that will include reaching out diplomatically to Iran writes Al-Watan.
It is not known who Assad is supporting in the US election, but it is believed that he will be taking a keen interest in the results writes Al-Modon.
Russia and Syria have planned for a conference in Damascus regarding refugees, but the US is insistent that European and Arab countries do not take part writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Turkey might launch an attack against the Syrian Democratic Forces and finish its leftover business from Operation Peace Spring reports Baladi News.
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.
The Constitutional Committee has had little success since it was formed, and Geir Pedersen is now under pressure to announce its failure reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
The former US Ambassador to Syria has said that if Joe Biden wins the election on November 3rd, then US policy in Syria is unlikely to change much writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The intra-Kurdish talks have come to an end without an agreement between the two sides, with a lack of international sponsorship being blamed in part reports Asharq Al-Awsat.
In the face of continued attacks by Turkish-backed forces, the Autonomous Administration has called on Russia and the US to pressure Turkey to stop writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
US officials visited Damascus to discuss the release of hostages, but it is not clear whether there is genuine desire, or if it’s simply an attempt to boost Donald Trump’s election bid writes Al- Araby Al-Jadeed.
Following reports of a secret trip by US officials to Damascus, the Secretary of State has said that US policy will not change to secure the release of hostages reports North Press.
Russia has lashed out at the United States, who are attempting to secure a resolution based on a report from the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons writes SANA.
The Assad government has again, raised the price of gasoline, adding to the economic woes of citizens, who are struggling through the gas crisis writes Alsouria Net.
Two high-ranking officials from Washington visited Damascus to discuss the issue of American hostages, but Syria would only discuss a withdrawal of US forces from the country writes Al-Watan.
Lebanese security officials have visited Washington, to serve as a mediator and secure the release of US citizens being held in by the Syrian regime writes Baladi News.
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.
Sergey Lavrov has warned the US against perusing plans for the formation of an autonomous Kurdish entity with quasi-state powers reports Nadaa Syria.
Fresh military action could be taken by Turkey if promises to move the SDF from Turkish borders are not kept by Russia and the US reports Baladi News.
Syria speaks out on the recent clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan, coronavirus cases on the rise across Syria and Iran calls on US to withdraw. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Government official hails alliance with India and wants U.S. to withdraw unconditionally from Syria, The Syria Times reports
The Syrian regime has announced that it will auction off a Falcon 400 aircraft, in an effort to raise funds and mitigate losses caused by the Caesar Act reports SY 24.
Following recent altercations, Russia and the US have reinforced their numbers in northeastern Syria, to secure their positions and prevent further clashes writes Baladi News.
US forces have reported entered Syria to liquidate members of the Islamic State, while moving other members to their base in Hassakeh writes The Syria Times.
A Czech parliamentarian has written that the US is engaging in theft in Syria and that their presence is not legal writes SANA.
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.
Gulfsands Petroleum has expressed concerns about the recent deal between the US and the Kurds and their options for drilling in the northeastern region writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
While many expected the Russians to put more pressure on the regime, they appear to largely support the latter’s political choices, political commentator Akil Hussein says
The Russians want to push Damascus to make some concessions ahead of the presidential elections next year, Asharq Al-Awsat says
Russian and US patrols have collided in Syria, amid a rise in tension between the two countries writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The US has moved more military vehicles, including oil tankers, into Hassakeh province, from Iraq writes Al-Masdar.
A dangerous confrontation is brewing, between the tribes of northeastern Syria and the Syrian Democratic Forces writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
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.
The formation of the Peace and Freedom Front has been announced, who hope to unify the ranks of the Syrian opposition writes Shaam News.
The US have announced their intention to impose more sanctions on Syria, while some doubt their effectiveness reports Al-Masdar.
Turkey has expressed disappointment following a deal between a US oil firm and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces writes Anadolu Agency.
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.
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 recent Caesar Act has posed a number of issues for the United Arab Emirates, who until recently were engaging in normalisation with the regime writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Russia has announced that it has withdrawn from a UN mechanism that shared information about humanitarian sites in Syria writes Al-Masdar.
The Caesar Act has imposed further harsh sanctions on Syria that hope to change the behaviour of the Syrian regime writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The 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.
Bouthaina Shaaban has said that Syria will overcome the new US sanction resulting from the Caesar Act and will strengthen relations with is allies reports Al-Watan.
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.
US Ambassador James Jeffrey has discussed the relationship between Syria and Russia and the future of America’s involvement in Syria writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The US is overseeing meetings with the Kurdish National Council and the Democratic Union Party, in an effort to create a unity between the two groups writes Basnews.
Despite US sanctions, 6.8 million barrels of oil are en route to Syria, which will help Iran who has been struggling with a drop in demand from China writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
The US has attempted to defend itself in the face of harsh criticism of the unilateral coercive measures that it has imposed on countries, in the time of coronavirus writes Al-Watan.
There is a possibility that Syria could be brought back in to the international community, if it is willing to curb the Turkish and Iranian influence on its territories writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
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.
After years of war and with a shattered healthcare system, Syria is particularly vunerable to an outbreak of the coronavirus writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
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.
The former director of the CIA has said that Assad has won the war, but he remains in power with no legitimacy after killing hundreds of thousands and displacing millions reports Al-Masdar.
Caesar, who smuggled thousands of photos of executed prisoners out of Syria, testified in front of Congress about the abuses happening in Syria reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
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.
Turkish president Erdogan has said that Syria must pull back from Turkey’s observation post or they will be forced to act reports Al-Masdar.
The Russian Foreign Minister has lambasted the United State for considering a deal with terrorists present in northern Syria writes Al-Masdar.
America’s national security adviser has said Washington does not intend to involve itself in the increasing violence between Turkey and the Syrian regime writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
The Foreign and Expatriates Ministry has warned the UN that terrorist, with Turkish support, are planning to stage a chemical attack to provoke a Western response writes SANA.
Recent diplomatic activities in New York between Syria and Saudi Arabia have led people to expect a resumption of relations writes Al-Watan.
Syria and Russia have called on the US to withdraw from Syria, to stop looting Syrian natural resources and allow the return of displaced Syrian writes SANA.
Prime Minister Imad Khamis has delivered the condolences of President Assad to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani writes SANA.
The killing of Qassem Soleimani in a US drone strike has deepened the sharp divisions across the world writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
US forces have evacuated their base in Khirab al-Jir on the Iraq border, which they had occupied for seven months reports Brocar Press.
As tensions between Iran and the US increase, Deir ez-Zor is bracing itself as a possible arena for a confrontation between the two sides writes Arabi 21.
Following the assassination of Qasem Soleimani, Iran has promised a response that will shake the US presence in the Middle East reports Al-Watan.
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.
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.
A mobile phone seller from Ras al-Ayn was tortured by Turkey-backed fighters for refusing to unlock smartphone, stolen from residents writes Zaman Al Wasl.
Following the recent Astana talks, a relative truce has been agreed for the northern province of Idleb, but the regime are continuing with rocket attacks writes Alsouria Net.
Bouthaina Shaaban has praised the efforts of China, while criticising the West and their attitudes and their interventionist actions in Syria reports The Syria Times.
The US is set to announce a new list of regime funders and supporters who will be sanctioned for their part in oppressing the Syrian people writes Syria TV.
The Assad regime has been transferring prisoners from security branches to the notorious Sednaya military prison, where it is thought that they will face execution writes Zaman Al Wasl.
The Syrian Interim Government has called on SDF fighters to surrender their arms and submit themselves to the Syrian National Army in order to be pardoned writes Jisr.
A Russian researcher has accused the US of hindering the political process and obstructing the work of the Committee to Discuss to Constitution writes SANA.
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.
The Syrian Government has responded to a statement by the US, reminding them that the Constitutional Committee is a Syrian-Syrian led process writes SANA.
Syria’s Permanent Representative to the OPCW has lambasted a report on the use of chemical weapons and has urged all countries to join the Chemical Weapons Convention writes SANA.
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.
Following the US announcement surrounding the Zionist occupation of the West Bank, Syria has expressed its vehement condemnation writes SANA.
SDF commander Mazloum Abadi has criticised Russia and the US for not doing enough to prevent Turkish attacks reports Enab Baladi.
Mazloum Abdi has expressed his distrust of both Russia and the Syrian regime, but has agreed to continue to search for peace writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
In a recent interview, Assad has spoken about the role of Tehran and Moscow as well as the possible outcomes of the constitutional committee and the status of the Kurds writes Al-Modon.
The initial criticism of Donald Trump’s withdrawal from Syria has turned to praise for the killing of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi writes Al-Watan.
US President Donald Trump has announced that an operation conducted in northwestern Syria ended with the killing of ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi reports Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
In accordance with the Turkish-Russian agreement, Russia has started to patrol the border region as the SDF withdraws to the agreed upon distance writes Alsouria Net.
Following their withdrawal from the northeast, Syria has told the US to also leave the al-Tanf area writes SANA.
A new report on the developments in northern Syria has said that the US and Russia orchestrated events to their benefit and that Iran was the biggest loser writes Alsouria Net.
Turkey’s actions in northern Syria have given him plenty of diplomatic leverage and it will allow him to implement his plans for demographic change writes Brocar Press.
The US has been accused of transporting Islamic State fighters and their families into Iraq as they withdraw from Syria writes SANA.
Russia is set to hold meetings with Turkey to discuss the removal of the Syrian Kurdish People’s Protection Units from Manbij and Kobani writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
A recently released document has shown a link between the recent Turkish attack and groups funded and armed by the US writes SANA.
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.
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.
US President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw troops has thrown northern Syria into chaos, but no one is set to win writes Asharq al-Awsat.
Following the US withdrawal, Turkey has launched ground and air operations in northern Syria, causing people to flee the border towns writes Asharq al-Awsat.
Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mikdad has said that the Kurds were always going to get tossed aside by foreign powers reports Al-Watan.
With the US withdrawal, Iran is looking to make good on its Syrian investments and secure the resources present in northeastern Syria reports Al-Modon.
The Syrian Democratic Forces have reacted with bitter disappointment and anger to the recent decision by the US president to withdraw from northern Syria writes Alsouria Net.
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.
Civilians on the border with Turkey have started to flee their homes ahead of an anticipated attack by Turkish forces east of the Euphrates reports Zaman Al Wasl.
Plans to evacuate the al-Rukban camp have been hindered by the US forces in the area according to Syria and Russia writes The Syria Times.
A new book is released in Washington providing a list and profile of the main regime perpetrators of war crimes
The Iranian President has condemned the occupation of Palestine and the Golan Heights, SANA reports
There are 3.6 million Syrians living in Turkey, but the Turkish president has said that 3 million of them could move into the ‘safe zone’ in northern Syria writes Anadolu News Agency.
Israel is suspected of carrying out an airstrike in the Euphrates Valley, killing at least 17 Iran backed militants reports Zaman Al Wasl.
In an interview with Brocar Press, Nasr al-Hariri discussed the formation of the constitutional committee, the situation in northern Syria and the road to presidential elections.
Turkey and Russia are slowly working towards a solution for Idleb, while also trying to ensure that they both get what they want writes Al-Arab.
Syria is no longer a major news story in the US, but one Democratic Party presidential hopeful’s record on Syria may come back to haunt her writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
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.
Bouthaina Shaaban has warned Syrians against working with the Americans, saying that the army will liberate every region of Syria reports Al-Watan.
Despite repeated warnings from the US, a large delegation of businessmen from the UAE is attending the Damascus International Fair reports Syria TV.
In a television interview, Dr. Bouthaina Shaaban has said that history must be written to remember the honourable sacrifices of the martyrs and the pains of the wounded writes SANA.
With the Damascus International Fair days away, the US is warning business not to take part or risk being hit with sanctions writes SANA.
The Syrian Army continue their advance, Syrian Kurds announce support for safe zone, Turkish government deny deportations and the SDF begin withdrawal. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Israeli warplanes are pursuing Iranian targets from Syria and into Iraq, targeting Iranian weapons and missile warehouses reports Asharq al-Awsat.
A Kurdish academic has put forward a new proposal to bring together the Syrian-Kurds and the regime and secure the rights of the Kurds writes Basnews.
The Syrian Kurdish National Council is seeking to secure a bigger role in the administration of the proposed safe zone in northern Syria reports Bas News.
Turkey’s foreign minister has emphasised that the safe zone in northern Syria must go ahead and the US cannot delay its creation writes Anadolu News Agency.
Following the agreement between the US and Turkey, operations have begun to secure a safe zone in northern Syria, although it is still unclear how deep the zone will run writes Baladi News.
The Joint Operations Center, which is being established in the Turkish province of Sanilurfa, is part of a plan to set up a safe zone and develop a peace corridor reports Anadolu News Agency.
Turkey has repeated warnings that it will launch a military assault on the area east of the Euphrates if it feels that it is necessary writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The United States is continuing to be a disrupting force in Syria, refusing to engage in any solution to the crisis, while also offering no alternatives writes Al-Arab.
Following the failure of the talks between the US and Turkey to establish a safe zone in northern Syria, the Turkish president has reiterated their intention to launch an assault reports Alsouria Net.
The US led International Coalition has moved hundreds of trucks and military vehicles into Qamishli City to support the Syrian Democratic Forces who control the area reports SANA.
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.
The image of young children in the aftermath of an airstrike on Ariha in Idleb province has brought the horrors of the regime assault back to the forefronts of people’s mind writes Robert Ford for Asharq Al-Awsat.
The US and Turkey are divided over the implementation and nature of the proposed safe zone on the border of Turkey and Syria writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The residents of the al-Rukban camp have been enduring a bitter siege and have suffered from the lack of food and medical supplies writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
Binali Yildirim is attempting to secure Turkey’s future as the number of refugees in the country grows, but the security situation in Syria must be dealt with first writes Al-Watan.
Russia and Syria agreed that the elimination of terrorism is essential to secure safety and stability to ensure the return of refugees reports SANA.
A safe zone on the northern Syrian border, proposed by the US, has been declared unsatisfactory, raising fears of a Turkish military attack writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
General Kenneth McKenzie discussed with the Syrian Democratic Forces the Islamic State prisoners and the proposed safe zone on the northern border writes Asharq Al-Awsat.
The recent changes to the intelligence agencies has shaken up the power structures in Syria and left people wondering if Russia is trying to push Assad out writes Alsouria Net.
Russian 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.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is accusing the U.S. and other western countries of protecting the Nusra Front, writes state news agency SANA
Three Russian soldiers were injured when an explosion hit a patrol that was travelling on the main road near the town of al-Sahwa in the eastern Daraa countryside reports Alsouria Net.
Both the area east of the Euphrates and in Idleb, militias are on the rise and spreading their control and influence writes Al-Akhbar.
Despite the repeated efforts by the US, with help from Israel, to undermine Syria and the rest of the region, their schemes and practises have failed writes The Syria Times.
During a trip to Berlin, US special representative on Syria James Jeffrey mentioned that it is the wish of the US administration that Germany send ground troops to northern Syria writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
As tensions between Iran and the United States increases, Syria is stuck in the middle get pulled apart from both sides writes The Syrian Observer.
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.
Ali Asghar Khaji highlighted the important relationship between Syria and Iran, while updating President Assad on Iran’s nuclear developments reports SANA.
US President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Iran, and also his allies, saying that they should contribute to the protection provided to their ships writes Al-Watan.
Representatives from the US, France, Britain, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Egypt are set to attend a meeting in Paris to discuss the Syrian war reports Asharq al-Awsat.
Former US ambassador to Syria, Robert Ford, has said that Washington has an ambiguous strategy when it comes to Syria writes Anadolu News Agency.
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.
Russia has lashed out at the US for the latest round of sanctions that have been imposed on Syria, citing America’s frustration with the success of the Syrian government writes SANA.
Syria and Russia have accused the US of preventing displaced people in the al-Rukban Camp from returning to their homes writes SANA.
Fighting in Idleb between government forces and rebel fighters have forced over 200,000 people to flee their homes writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The economic crisis that is gripping Syria has hit pro-regime media outlets, who are finding that their funding has been halted, which could result in them closing their doors writes Zaman Al Wasl.
Andrew J. Tabler, the National Security Council’s new Director for Syria, has previously worked as a journalist, editor, and analyst.
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.
The US Special Representative for Syria, James Jeffrey, has said that Iran’s presence in Syria threaten neighboring countries like Israel and creating an unstable atmosphere writes Asharq al-Awsat.
As the regime continues its assault on Idleb, questions are being asked about what happens next and how Turkey and the US will come into play writes the Omran Center for Strategic Studies.
As the land and air assault on the province of Idleb continues, discussions in the background are still trying to secure political advantages writes Alsouria Net.
During a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, Sergey Lavrov reiterated that the terrorists in Idleb must be eliminated reports SANA.
The failure of the recent Astana talks have increased tensions between Russia and Turkey and created more confusion about what could happen in Idleb writes Ana Press.
The Muslim Brotherhood is warning the U.S. administration against labelling it a terrorist organisation, Ana Press says
A South African delegation of former political prisoners has lent its support to the Syrian government, state news agency SANA reports
Despite some reports of progress, talks about the nature of a “security zone” in northeastern Syria are still ongoing reports Al-Quds Al-Araby.
During their meeting, the two men discussed the economic sanctions that have been placed on their countries and the need to enhance security and stability in the region writes SANA.
Russia is keen facilitate the return of Syrian refugees living in Lebanon, but many in the international community do not believe that the conditions for return are right reports Al-Jumhurriyah.
Many countries, including some with seats on the Security Council, have voiced their concern about the implications of Trump’s decision writes Asharq al-Awsat.
A small number of countries have agreed to take back Islamic State fighters, but the majority are refusing to accept them writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Lindsey Graham’s pledge was a boost to Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, who toured the Golan with him, ahead of April 9 Israeli elections writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
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.
Despite Bashar al-Assad now being in control of the large majority of the country, his problems are far from over writes Alsouria Net.
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.
As well as preventing the departure of refugees from the al-Rukban Camp, the US continues to attack civilians and infrastructure writes SANA.
France has reportedly reached out to Moscow to break the impasse of the constitutional committee and speed up the process of elections in Syria writes Asharq al-Awsat.
An Al-Qaeda-linked group kills 21 regime forces near Idlib, the Syrian government denounces the UK’s blacklisting of Hezbollah and accuses the US of investing in terrorism, ISIS is close to final territorial defeat and a Syrian parliamentary delegation is in Jordan on the occasion of a conference on Jerusalem. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
In a joint statement, Russia and Syria called on the United States to withdraw its ‘illegal’ forces and asked for refugees in al-Rukban to be evacuated writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
America’s former ambassador to Syria has said that the US administration is divided on how to proceed in Syria and what their goals are writes Al-Watan.
The recent Warsaw summit aimed to create a united front against Iran, but failed to create a consensus of ideas or opinions writes Al-Watan.
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.
Syrian Kurdish political leader Ilham Ahmed has urged the UN and Western states to provide an international observer force and air support for Kurdish forces fearing a Turkish assault writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The President’s Political and Media Adviser praised Russia and China for their support at the UN and insisted that the issue of the constitution was a purely sovereign matter writes SANA.
Jeremy Hunt, the UK foreign secretary, said that Assad is likely to remain in his position, adding that the UK has “no plans” to reopen diplomatic relations with Syria reports Arab News.
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.
The Lawyer’s Syndicate in Syria has said that any court proceedings surrounding the death of Marie Colvin must take place in Syria reports Al-Watan.
An 11-year-old Syrian found dead, SDF continue to close in on ISIS, Iranian plans for missile productions and Russian artillery kills six. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The US President announced the withdrawal of US forces, however little progress has been made, while the humanitarian situation in al-Rukban continues to deteriorate writes SANA.
Europe and the US are attempting to ensure that any Arab normalization with the Assad regime is achieved in conjunction with a political process writes Asharq al-Awsat.
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.
The Adana Agreement, Kurds talk with the regime, Israeli airstrikes and a northern security zone. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan has cited an agreement signed in 1998 between Turkey and Syria as a backbone for operations against the Kurds in Syria reports Alsouria Net.
Turkey is determined to establish a safe zone in northern Syria, but it has not ruled out cooperation with other countries reports Al-Modon.
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.
Details about how the proposed safe zone would be established and run have not been proffered by either Turkey or the United States writes Asharq al-Awsat.
Efforts to seize back control of the last parcel of land held by the Islamic State have intensified reports Alsouria Net.
Lebanon has been warned by the US, that if it takes part in the reconstruction of Syria, then it could be subject to US sanctions reports Al-Akhbar
US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, is visiting the Middle East to try an secure support for America’s policies and its post Syria strategy writes Al-Watan.
Efforts to readmit Syria into the Arab league have increased, with Iraq leading the way reports Al-Watan.
Since Hezbollah deployed in Syria, 1,630 members have been killed and the group has secured large quantities of arms writes Asharq al-Awsat.
As the conflict in Syria looks to be heading into the final act, regional powers are seeking to understand what the Syria of the future holds for them and how they can use Assad writes Al-Modon.
Following the announced withdrawal of US forces from Syria, other parties are scrambling to come up a strategy writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
Donald Trump’s haphazard foreign policy decisions show a lack of knowledge of regional dynamics and bring no benefit to the United States, writes Emile Nakhleh.
After many years of conflict, Assad has come out on top and foreign countries are reestablishing ties writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed.
The decision by the US to withdraw troops from Syria marks a new low in American pragmatism writes The Syrian Observer.
For both pro-regime and pro-opposition commentators, the announced withdrawal by the US is a chance and lost opportunity writes Syrian Snack (independent website)
The Peshmerga, who have previously fought ISIS in Iraq, has entered Syria in agreement with the United States writes Ana Press.
The formation of the Consitutional Committee has long been a sticking point between the US and Russia writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The Syrian National Coalition highlighted the important work of the FSA and the need for strong relations with Turkey.
The US has reportedly warned the Syrian Coalition not to get involved with any Turkish operation that could lead to a confrontation between the two sides writes Ana Press.
Operations are expected to start in the town of Tel Abyad and would move to include 150 towns and villages across northern Syria writes Alsouria Net.
The US plan to train 40,000 locals in northeastern Syria, has caused concern and anger within Turkey reports Anadolu Agency.
Russia has claimed that the US is occupying the area around al-Tanf and that they are the responsible for the fate of the Syrian living there writes SANA.
As part of the Manbij roadmap that was agreed between the US and Turkey, the PYD and YPG are obliged to leave Manbij writes Asharq al-Awsat.
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.
The Russian Foreign Minister has said that the US is refusing to restore infrastructure some territories reports Asharq al-Awsat.
The Syrian-Syrian Dialogue Conference was attended by more than 100 figures from the opposition who discussed a wide range of topics writes Ana Press.
Forces from the Gulf are active on the ground in Deir ez-Zor, fighting against the Islamic State and deterring any actions by the Turks writes Basnews.
Syrian businessman Firas Tlass has lashed out at the US and their lack of planning and strategy in Syria writes Ana Press.
Attacks in Idleb, returning Syrians from Jordan, airstrikes in Deir ez-Zor and Turkish complaints over US observation posts. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The US has said that the observation posts are designed to protect the SDF from Turkish attacks, while they engage against Islamic State forces reports Asharq al-Awsat.
The UAE and Saudi Arabia have reportedly sent troops to join the US-led coalition east of the Euphrates, as Turkey prepares to expand military operations writes Yeni Şafak.
It is hoped, that by giving control of the border to the regime, any possible Turkish attack will be stopped writes Zaman Al Wasl.
Scores of civilians were killed or injured when International Coalition warplanes struck the village of al-Sha’afa in Deir ez-Zor’s eastern countryside reports SANA.
After much confusion, the United States have announced a clear strategy on Syria and what they hope to achieve writes Al-Hurra channel.
Syria accused the International Coalition of massacring thousands of Syrian civilians writes SANA.
The Syrian Democratic Forces have been attacked on two side by the Islamic State and the Turkish army, forcing them to halt operations reports Alsouria Net.
The US Special Representative on Syria, cited the Russian-Turkish agreement on Idleb and the push to form a constitutional committee as important steps forward reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
The conflict in Syria is a tangled mess of conflicting groups and ideas and the search for a political solution is likely to be long and hard writes Asharq al-Awsat.
During his meeting with the National Coalition, James Jeffery reiterated US support for a political solution in Syria reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.
Christians living under Kurdish rule in northern Syria have been subjected to harsh conditions as people have been arrested and schools closed writes Al-Hal.
A deal between Washington and Ankara ensured the withdrawal of YPG/PKK unit from the Manbij’s city center, but now the are building fortifications around the city writes Anadolu Agency.
As the war in Syria draws to a close, international players are looking to secure influence in the country’s future writes Al-Watan.
US Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has condemned the protection that the Trump administration is giving to known terrorist writes SANA.
The recent attack on the Mezzeh military airbase reveals the interplay between nations and their influence in the region writes Al-Hayat.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign and Expatriates Minister Walid al-Muallem has reaffirmed Syria’s determination and accused the US of prolonging the war writes SANA.
The US State Department has denied reports that American officials met with the regime to discuss an Iranian withdrawal and chemical weapons writes Syria TV.
William Roebuck made the statment while visiting a civil council in al-Shadadi in southern Hassakeh province reports Hurriya Press
Russia has always maintained that the US, unlike them, were not invited to Syria, and that their presence in the country is illegal writes SANA
While the US has long been critical of the growing influence of Iran in Syria, they have not developed a clear strategy for the country writes Asharq al-Awsat
Lebanon’s Foreign Minister, Gebran Bassil, has said that there are areas in Syria which are safe for refugees to return to writes Hurriya Press
Saudi funding, the ending of aid, US airstrikes and condemnation at the UN. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.
The possibility of SDF forces merging with regime forces was discussed at the second round of talks in Damascus writes Zaman Al Wasl
The second round of meetings focused on the idea of local administration and the concept of decentralization writes Alsouria Net
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
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
Syria’s Druze community have tried to remain neutral during the Syrian war, but local events could force their hand writes Asharq al-Awsat.
The US were invited to take part in the 10th Astana talks as an observer reports Tishreen
The hopes that the uprising sowed have been betrayed by the treachery of people both in and outside the country writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed
The evacuation of the White Helmets is being used to whitewash the image of Israel writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed
Russia has proposed a roadmap to return Syrian refugees in coordination with the US, a move welcomed by Beirut writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed
All eyes are on Helsinki and the upcoming summit between Trump and Putin writes Asharq al-Awsat
Jordan closed its borders when the Syrian government started it offensive on southern Syria writes Asharq al-Awsat
Once the Syrian army has recaptured Daraa, the election of local administrators could quickly follow writes Al-Watan
Trump and Putin are due to meet later in the month to discuss Syria’s future reports Asharq al-Awsat
As the regime advances, with the support of its Russian allies, the situation in Daraa looks bleak for the opposition reports SNP
With the Manbij agreement and the possible withdrawal of the Americans, the Kurds start to look at a possible alliance with the Syrian government writes Al-Watan
Iraqi airstrikes, the return of displaced families and attacks in Daraa. Catch up on what has been happening in Syria over the weekend
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
A large numbers of troops and armored vehicles have been seen moving south in preparation for an assault on Daraa reports Zaman Al Wasl
Brigadier General Mazen Barakat was the commander of the notorious Battalion 242 writes Zaman Al Wasl
It is looking hopeful that progress will be made in Geneva, but the obstacles in the way are many and varied writes Al-Watan
An offensive to retake Daraa and Quneitra from rebels is expected to start imminently writes Zaman Al Wasl
The deal between Turkey and the US has pushed the PYD to re-evaluate its relationship and has even opened up to talks with the regime writes Sada al-Sham
The US-led coalition claims that it only ever targets ISIS in Syria writes SANA
With an agreement between Turkey and the US finalized, the Syrian National Coalition is planning on having a say in the town’s future writes the Syrian National Coalition
The Syrian government is preparing to move south and assault the rebel held areas that border Jordan and Israel reports Asharq al-Awsat
The roadmap for Manbij includes the removal of all Kurdish People’s Protection Units from the city writes Alsouria
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
Following an agreement between the US and Turkey, the YPG has announced its withdrawal writes Etihad
The presence of Iranian forces on the southern border is a sticking point for the interested parties reports Asharq al-Awsat
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claims that despite a US presence, terrorist groups are present in al-Tanf and al-Rukban writes SANA
Syrian troops had started moving into Daraa province, following their victory over IS in Damascus writes Al-Araby
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has been working in Syria following the alleged chemical attack in Douma
Rebels are hoping to seize a strategic hilltop from Jaysh Khaled Bin Walid reports Zaman Al Wasl
Russia accuses the US of covering up the criminal activities of Daesh members reports SANA
The decision by the US to withdraw from the Iran deal, has increased mistrust in Washington reports The Syria Times
Lacking weapons, the group’s future is unclear, Souriatna writes
Tensions between the SDF and Elite Forces have spilled into open confrontation, Ibrahim Hamidi writes
Rebels warned civilians to stay in their homes, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Rebel forces also thwarted an ISIS attack, according to Zaman al-Wasl
Both the United States and Russia appear to be scrambling to save the de-escalation agreement in the south, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Massive mobilizations are being witnessed across Syria in anticipation of a U.S. strike, Al-Etihad reports
The jihadist group has taken advantage of regime forces’ inaction by advancing deep into the desert region, according to Enab Baladi
Alsouria Net takes a look at the various fronts that could be targeted next
The new party has been met with much scepticism, with accusations of a cosmetic change implemented by Washington, Geroun reports
Farid has been on the U.S. and U.N.’s sanctions lists since 2017, Al-Etihad Press reports
Marcus Papadopoulos tells pro-government e-newspaper The Syria Times that as long as militant groups control the Ghouta, the U.S. and U.K. will hold hope Damascus can be taken
Opposition website Zaman al-Wasl says the regime may have to airlift the jihadists into the Yarmouk Basin in order to avoid rebel forces
Writing in Al-Watan, Anas Wahib al-Kurdi details the options Turkey now faces to realize its vision in northern Syria
Russia’s foreign minister says the U.S.-led coalition’s rhetoric on Syria is at odds with the situation it sees militarily on the ground, according to SANA
Syria’s state news agency quotes sources as saying groups in the Damascus suburbs are trying to prompt Western intervention on their behalf
Despite international pledges of assistance, much work remains to clear the city of the dangers that ISIS left behind, Enab Baladi writes
Top official slams foreign military campaigns on Syrian soil during opening of Middle East forum in Moscow, SANA reports
Research center tracks Syria’s military and political developments over the first month of 2018
Comments follow Tuesday’s announcement by France that it will strike Syria if proven to have used chlorine bombs on civilians
Two-page document follows reports of ‘flexibility’ from U.N. officials in dealing with controversial Syrian figures, Saudi-owned newspaper reports
Military and political actors are plotting their next steps amid signs of possible changes in dynamics on the ground, Sada al-Sham writes
FSA fighters kill two members of the ISIS-linked Khalid Bin al-Walid Army near the Israeli border, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Moscow and Washington’s shared interests with Ankara run deeper than those with their Kurdish allies, Souriatna writes
Moscow and Washington had more to lose than gain from backing their Kurdish allies in Afrin, Murad al-Quwatli explains
Damascus blasts U.S. intervention after Tillerson suggests American forces would remain for the long haul
Trump administration suspended backing for CIA-vetted rebels in July last year
Application can be useful to use in Syria where verifying pictures has become more important than ever in the seven-year crisis
Iranian and Syrian officials meet on the sidelines of Organization of Islamic Cooperation meeting in Tehran, official media reports
Several skirmishes have been reported in recent months between jihadist factions and rebel groups in the area, Zaman al-Wasl reports
Damascus points finger for deadly anti-government protests which have spread throughout Iran in recent days
Russian and American plans for Syria are expected to involve greater Kurdish inclusion, YPG commander tells Asharq al-Awsat
The U.S. blocked a U.N. resolution calling for the withdrawal of Washington’s recognition of the city as Israel’s capital
The Carnegie Moscow director speaks with Al-Modon about what Russia wants to achieve from its time in Syria
Expecting the Assad regime to reciprocate the opposition’s compromises will not improve Syria’s chances at a peaceful and dignified future
Damascus-based center says coalition violations must be exposed if they are to be stopped, official media reports
Assad’s former vice president has been touted as a possible key player in mediating a solution with the Syrian opposition, Alsouria writes
Enab Baladi highlights the work of several Syrian women in their efforts to defend the vulnerable
Foreign Ministry reacts to confirmation of move stating that America will be accountable for any dangerous repercussions, SANA writes
Former Coalition president says a Russian-U.S. consensus on letting Assad remain ignores the roots of the catastrophe, and may accelerate the collapse of the region
Foreign Ministry reacts to comments by U.S. defense secretary that America will stay in Syria until Geneva negotiations are successful, SANA reports
U.S.-based activists say they hope to change public opinion about the nature of events inside Syria, SANA reports
America hopes to enlist Russian help in pushing forward a solution in Syria as world leaders meet for talks in Southeast Asia, Ibrahim Hamidi explains
Pro-Hezbollah Lebanese newspaper claims American official met with Syrian security head Ali Mamlouk during visit to Damascus last week
In the wake of the CCP’s National Congress, President Assad’s political advisor comments on the inevitable rise of China at the expense of the West
NATO allies Washington and Ankara are working toward separate ends in Syria as the countries face a split in their Middle East strategy, Ibrahim Hamidi writes
Washington correspondent Hussain Abdul Hussain explains why America viewed the Assad regime as a valuable partner in the past, and why that has changed
The Syrian government voices support for the Iran nuclear deal
Foreign minister condemns unsanctioned foreign forces on Syrian territory during meeting with Russian officials in Sochi, official media reports
Washington’s miscalculations have resulted in a rupture of the regional power balance in favor of Syria and Russia, Al-Baath contributor Emad Salem writes
Activists shame international community for its tepid response to civilian deaths resulting from the campaign to eradicate ISIS, Souriatna writes
Zaman al-Wasl interviews the opposition figure about the developments on the Syrian stage following the recent U.N. General Assembly
Assad’s continued expansion near the Jordanian border follows signs of a possible detente between Damascus and Amman
Foreign minister’s comments to Russian media are the first time Syria has publicly acknowledged the possibility of Kurdish self-rule
Fragmented visions on rebuilding Syria have created uncertainty around the roles foreign countries will play in the coming stage, writes Ibrahim Hamidi
Russian foreign minister says operations by the U.S. and other anti-ISIS coalition partners without Assad’s consent is violation of Syrian territory, official media reports
Writing for Al-Modon, Sataa Nour El-Din asks which army will assume the narrative of victory following the defeat of ISIS
Enab Baladi highlights the myriad of interests and concerns surrounding a possible foreign intervention against Islamist factions in the rebel-held province
As the international consensus leans increasingly toward Assad staying, will Syria’s main opposition eventually get in line with its backers, Souriatna asks
Writing for the Saudi-owned outlet, Hamidi says the Russian-led cease-fire plan will fail if not followed by political efforts aimed at unity instead of division
Adnan Ali outlines the recent political and military developments, asking if the opposition is succumbing to international pressure around the fate of Assad
In televised address, Hezbollah’s general-secretary hails efforts by Lebanese forces to ensure the defeat of Syria-based terror groups
Editor of Saudi-owned Okaz newspaper Abdullah al-Ghadawi claims that Washington and Moscow have come to share similar visions for the future of Syria
The aggressive strategies employed by the U.S.-led coalition in Syria and Iraq are only working to turn locals against against it, Mehraz al-Ali writes
Turkey-backed group names Sheikh Hassan Sofan as leader after alliance was left weakened by infighting and defections, opposition website reports
Rumors of meeting are aimed at delegitimizing the group in the wake of the safe-zones agreement in the south, rebel spokesman tells Zaman al-Wasl
Kremlin has attempted to discredit Zaman al-Wasl’s claims that Iranian experts are working on developing long-range missiles near Assad’s coastal stronghold
Writing for the Turkey-based outlet, Abou al-Khair al-Attar claims Israel benefits from prolonging the crisis in Syria largely at the expense of Ankara
As international focus shifts to Deir-ez-Zor, ISIS is attempting to strengthen its defenses in the eastern province in anticipation of the next big clash, Enab Baladi writes
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
As the Islamic State continues to lose ground, the death of its leader now seems confirmed, Asharq al-Awsat reports
The buffer zone in southern Syria agreed upon between Russia and the United States is creating division among opposition ranks, Enab Baladi reports
Negotiations between main players appear to confirm Iranian forces will be kept away from Syria’s south, as per Jordanian and U.S. demands, Alsouria Net writes
Writing for loyalist Al-Watan, Siyah Azzam says the U.S is conspiring with its allies and terror groups in Syria to dismantle the state and depose Assad
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
Ministry source says White House claims are both an excuse to launch a new attack on Syria and a diversion from the U.S.-led coalition’s violations
Claims follow allegations by Washington the Assad regime may be planning a new chemical attack inside Syria, opposition outlet reports
Russian deputy FM says American claims of new chemical attacks planned by Assad government are unsupported and hinder the peace process
Kurdish Democratic Union Party leader speaks with Saudi-owned outlet about the ongoing battle for the ISIS-held city, accusations of ethnic cleansing, and the Gulf crisis
A dozen people from one family killed in strike on the southeastern countryside of the province, government outlet reports
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
Moscow ends communications channel with Washington designed to prevent accidents over Syrian airspace after the downing of Syrian plane by U.S.-led coalition
Loyalist Al-Watan writes that events in Syria are witnessing a shift in favor of Assad as American and opposition forces, as well as those states which back them, deal with defeat and infighting
Assad’s top advisor says that China is working to stop ISIS plans in Syria which, like that of Washington, aim at tearing apart the region
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
Hezbollah-run media warns of an end to ‘self-restraint’ after U.S. forces targeted Iranian-backed militias, while questions remain as to whether Russia approved the statement
Washington aims to limit Tehran’s political weight and break the line of Iranian influence by engaging in deal-making with Russia, Ibrahim Hamidi writes for Saudi-owned newspaper
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
Increased tensions erupt on Iraq-Syria-Jordan triangle as the U.S. and Iran vie for control of the strategic border area, opposition website writes
Russian experts claim Moscow must decide whether to cut and run or double down, as attack may be another indication of a shift in American policy toward Syria
Turkish FM expressed Ankara wishes for the removal of anti-ISIS envoy Brett McGurk due to his support for Kurdish militias, Anadolu news agency reports
Naim Ibrahim questions the reason behind Qatar’s funding of fighters in Syria and its calls for the departure of Assad, asking: would Doha give up power if the shoe was on the other foot?
Russian FM tells U.S. president that America could play key role in preserving security inside proposed safe zones, Syrian government media reports
Abdulnasser Al-Ayed explains that for Russia’s ‘safe zone’ proposal to work, Moscow will need to consider U.S. concerns despite attempts to sideline Washington in the Syrian peace process
Saudi-owned Al-Hayat reports rebel delegation approves plan but chooses to walk out of negotiations in protest at Assad regime’s continued bombardment of opposition areas
Media adviser to Turkey’s president threatens to hit Americans patrolling the southern border days after U.S. forces arrived in the Kurdish region of northern Syria, Qatari-owned Al-Arabi Al-Jadid reports
Moscow hails phone call between leaders as constructive and ‘business-like,’ with the Russian president also urging caution on U.S. policy toward North Korea, Saudi-owned newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat reports
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
Opposition members and activists decry the forced relocation of thousands of civilians from the “four Syrian towns” as part of a negotiation deal to release kidnapped Qatari businessmen, Paula Istih writes for Saudi-owned Asharq Al-Awsat
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
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
Opposition outlet Zaman al-Wasl reports that Kurdish forces are targeting Arab residents of Syria’s northern region in campaigns of discrimination and forced displacement, amid rapid advances by the Western-backed forces against ISIS positions in the area
Al-Hayat columnist Ibrahim Hamidi highlights four observations in the aftermath of the first American strike on Syrian army positions, explaining that the coming days will show which of two tracks will be taken by Russian and the U.S. in response — military escalation between the two superpowers, or a renewed interest in a military-political agreement
Vladimir Putin is a game-maker and a surprise-organizer. His counterpart in the Oval Office wants to be too
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
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
Syrian rebel commander tells opposition media that FSA fighters which participated in Turkey’s Euphrates Shield operation will join U.S. and Kurdish forces for upcoming battle to liberate Raqqa
As the battle for Raqqa city draws closer, a rebel spokesperson laments Kurdish domination of upcoming operations, also predicting that American forces will remain in Raqqa for years at the airbase they seized from ISIS last week, Alsouria Net writes
As key players look to fill the vacuum after the expected fall of ISIS’ capital of Raqqa, Al-Hayat columnist Ibrahim Hamidi breaks down the serpentine motivations behind the recent surge in international action on Syrian soil
SOHR reports at least 33 civilians killed in U.S. strike on a school sheltering displaced people in an ISIS-held town, while officials from 68 countries meet in Washington to hear Trump’s plan to defeat the militant group
U.S.-led coalition airstrikes hit a school sheltering displaced families in Al-Kesrat village in Raqqa, killing at least 19 civilians and wounding 15 more, SOHR reports
Kurdish displays of multi-directional alliances with Russia, Iran and the U.S. come as no surprise, as all sides, united in curtailing Turkey’s influence in the region, contemplate the preservation of an Alawite state
Although almost everyone cooperated with the Russian project, including Turkey, Gulf countries, and the Trump administration, this wasn’t enough
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
Various opposition groups are refusing to cooperate to form a delegation for the upcoming Geneva negotiations with the Assad regime, as rifts emerge between the HNC and rebel leaders who participated in the Astana meetings late last month, Ibrahim Hamidi writes
Political opposition stands its ground against attempts by Moscow to influence the make-up of its negotiating delegation at the upcoming Geneva talks, while the US presidency begins meetings with UN and regional leaders on the Syrian issue, Sada al-Sham writes
President Assad told Belgian media that statements made by Trump are promising regarding the priority of fighting terrorists, and mainly ISIS. Below is the full text as appeared on SANA:
In Saudi-owned Al-Hayat, Ibrahim Hamidi breaks down the current struggle for representation at the upcoming negotiations as well as the tug of war around prioritizing the political and military tracks
In the lead-up to the Syria talks in Geneva, attendees should prepare for the US president to shift focus from the political process to the issue of establishing safe zones, Ali Dahi writes in loyalist Al-Watan
Kurdish website ARA News speaks to sources who claim ISIS intends to open the Euphrates dam while the group relocates from its de facto capital in Raqqa to the province of Deir-ez-Zor
Saudi-owned Al-Hayat details the recommendations inside the separate Kurdish and Russian draft constitutions, which call for greater autonomy for Kurds and a more decentralized government, while also acknowledging the multi-ethnic make-up of Syria’s demography
Government news agency SANA publishes transcript of Syrian president’s interview with Japanese journalist regarding the state of the current ceasefire, this week’s peace talks in Kazakhstan, and what is likely to come from a Trump presidency
Alsouria Net speaks to insider at recent meetings between Turkish representatives and the Syrian armed opposition, in which most major rebel groups — except Ahrar al-Sham — agreed to attend the negotiations with the Assad regime in Astana next week
Deputy head of the Syrian Interim Government expresses hope that a Trump presidency will contribute to Turkey’s efforts to ensure a successful ceasefire in Syria
Unannounced negotiations are being held between American and Russian representatives to draft constitutional and political principles for a solution built on the principle of “political quotas” close to “the moderate Lebanese model”
The unpredictability of Russia’s Syria policy troubles both its allies and enemies who worry the Kremlin may be selling empty promises ahead of upcoming peace talks in Geneva
The gamble made by Damascus and its allies is that the US will be in a hurry to make any achievement in the Syrian crisis, and will accept the idea of Assad’s nomination in the coming elections due to domestic reasons related to their own upcoming election season
Foreign ministry says Washington’s decision to lift an embargo on arms exports to terrorist groups in Syria is aimed at prolonging the crisis
Douma native Akram Abou al-Fawz uses unexploded remnants in his artwork to show the world that Syrians are not only terrorists, but have a culture with deep roots
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
If Trump’s framework – partnerships and not hostility – finds a path to be implemented, then his policy in the Syrian issue will be better than that of his predecessor Obama, who gave up his role and delivered the issue to Russia, writes Fayez Sara
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
Trump will not support the armed opposition and will not support intervention in Syria, loyalists say, but he will strongly support fighting terrorists
Tensions boil as regional players in the Syrian crisis voice discontent at the choice of the international coalition to back the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces to liberate Raqqa from ISIS
Russian PM says high-level Israeli officials expressed their desire for someone who can control the situation on the ground in Syria
Top general confirms Russian and Syrian forces have offered to open corridors out of the besieged city for civilians and militants to leave
Russian foreign minster says US has proven it has no desire to separate so-called moderate opposition from Al-Qaeda-linked groups
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.
History will remember Obama as the president who pushed America’s adversaries to enter an unwinnable war at practically no cost to Washington and Tel Aviv
Military sources claim the international coalition against ISIS conducted strikes against the regime army in Al-Tharda Mountain to prevent the radical group from obtaining internationally banned weapons
Russian foreign minister says Nusra Front and ISIS will never be part of any ceasefire agreement as Moscow upholds its demands calling for the separation of Nusra from Western-backed “moderate opposition”
Daily life in Aleppo will descend into hell within a month under air strikes from the regime and its Russian ally, civil defense official warns
Bashar al-Assad and the Iranians are working to impose their agenda on the next US president from now
US Congress and the Pentagon have ignored the Obama administration’s efforts to secure a truce in Syria, says top adviser to Assad
Syrian minister says US unable to distinguish Nusra Front from other armed terror groups in Syria because it constitutes the “backbone” of opposition forces
Head of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation issues call to intervene quickly to stop the killing and massacres which are being carried out in residential areas
States concerned with the conflict are rushing to divide up the country and threatening both its existence and the fate of its people
US betrayed Syrian revolution because it wanted to destroy the country’s military infrastructure as it did in Iraq, says prominent thinker and author
Besides the U.S., no one but Assad and the Russians has an air force in Syria
Any US forces entering northern Syria would be seen as an occupation force, like the Russian and Iranian forces, says group’s co-founder
Syria has become divided between conflicting forces into spheres of influence
Moscow says it would like the recent US-Russian deal to be made public in order to avoid misinterpretations of its content
Main political opposition says FSA will deal “positively” with truce but stressed rebel groups have the right to defend Syrians and the revolution against regime aggression
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.
“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”
“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?”
Sources claim that Saudi-backed opposition developed a detailed scenario for what is required by the transitional stage and determining the fate of the political situation to save the Syrian people
Top diplomats meet on sidelines of G20 summit in Chinese city of Hangzhou
Turkish PM says all relevant parties, including the regime of Bashar Assad, were informed of Turkey’s Operation Euphrates Shield to prevent the establishment of a Kurdish corridor
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.
Nusra’s recent effort to rebrand itself under a new name does not change the fact it is a terrorist organization, top US diplomat tells journalists
Following the recent Turkey-Iran-Russia strategic alliance, Assad sought to find a role to play in the Kurdish file, choosing to strike Hassakeh in order to be at the center of the Kurdish issue
Turkish tanks enter country’s north in order to protect Syria’s “territorial integrity” as US-led coalition vows to support major campaign from the air
Russia and the United States have not yet agreed on dividing influence in the Middle East, and they are providing space to the regional countries to dive further into this quagmire
For the consecutive third day, Russian warplanes launch attacks from Iran to strike Syria, and targets “overlap” with America
Russian deputy FM tells press that there are no plans for a major offensive in Aleppo city after US warns of escalation
What Kerry says and what the Europeans think is not important
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
Moscow had positively received the U.S. letter and had tried to offer some commitments
According to a seven-page draft agreement, Moscow and Washington are considering high-level coordination beyond “carrying out air defense” in Syria’s skies, to reach a level of “direct cooperation” between the two armies and their intelligence agencies against Nusra Front and ISIS
Opposition’s negotiating committee urges US and Russia to conduct a thorough review of their operation to fight terrorism in Syria
Washington has delivered a proposal to the Kremlin accepting joint military coordination in return for Russia pressuring Assad to end the bombing of moderates and restart political talks
Russia feels that the search for options for a political settlement in Syria must be accelerated because it is stuck between diverging military and political priorities with Tehran and Damascus
UN envoy says resumption of the stalled Syrian peace talks still in the preliminary stage but hopes to resume negotiations next month
Was the aim of the Russian defense minister’s visit to Syria an act of contempt against Assad in an attempt to portray him as being obedient to Russian orders?
Maqdisi announced that he is ready to change his stance on ISIS, if this latter changed views on the parties that disagree with it and stopped describing them as apostates
One must keep in mind that on the July 7-8 a NATO meeting will be held in Warsaw
Opposition figure says conflict will intensify as the regime and its allies aim to impose a military solution on the crisis as hopes for successful negotiations fade
Defense ministry spokesman rejects claims Russian air forces targeted US-backed opposition near the Iraqi border last week
Sources claim Washington attempting to recruit tribesmen into key rebel faction but says Arabs have reservations because of Kurdish violations and authority within the group
Lavrov reiterates need to separate so-called moderate opposition from Nusra Front
Lavrov warned that Russia will not approve any attempts on stalling air operations in Syria
If we look at the military situation on the banks of Euphrates, it is apparent that the Syrian regime forces and its allies – including Russia and Iran – are essential party in the war on ISIS in cooperation with the PYD and its US allies
Sanctioned Syrian official delivers speech at Washington panel discussion on eradicating the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda
Kremlin spokesman says two countries are not cooperating on fighting ISIS terrorists in Syria
Western-backed SDF forces plan to incorporate the northern province into Kurdish self-administration once ISIS forces are driven out, representative declares
Families flee ISIS-controlled Raqqa city as US-led coalition forces warn residents of upcoming offensive on the northern stronghold
Real estate agents say rise in rent can be attributed to refugees fleeing continued ISIS shelling of Kilis south of Gaziantep, while others claim hikes are more likely the result of profiteers
It would be naïve for Washington to imagine that the Arabs, including those in the GCC and their leaders, are unable to read and comprehend the changing realities
Analysts claim Sunday’s unprecedented drop in the pound’s value is an indication that the country’s foreign reserves are almost depleted
Truce observance in the provincial capital is very fragile in light of the number of terrorist groups operating in the city, Kremlin spokesman tells reporters
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
Opposition sources spoke of another American veto which blocked Turkey from sending in a thousand Ahrar ash-Sham fighters to north Aleppo to fight ISIS
Syrian president tells visiting US senator that the fight against terrorism must also focus on combating extremist mentality alongside any military effort
“Progress” in Damascus’ position following its acceptance of a “political transition” with its talk of forming an “expanded government”, in contrast to the HNC’s rigidity in clinging to the formation of a “transitional body” as the starting point for a political transition
Moscow backs Damascus’ calls for a ‘national government’ at the Geneva talks as Russian media attempts to portray pro-regime figures as legitimate opposition
The raging fighting weakens a weeks-old ceasefire agreement and threatens to derail U.N.-led peace talks
All4Syria speaks with the head of the Building the Syrian State movement on what Russia’s decision to leave Syria means for Assad and the region
Western diplomats say the Russian withdrawal came as a surprise, especially that no indicators were detected beforehand
Backers tell regime and opposition delegations to negotiate about “material issues” as Damascus and Moscow struggle to see eye to eye on a range of matters
“Is it not Kerry, who agreed with Lavrov to the conspiracy theory which UN envoy Staffan de Mistura is carrying out against the Syrian opposition?”
Majd Chourbaji was honored with the Right the Wrong Award in recognition of her efforts to fight injustice
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
Political opposition remains doubtful over success of truce deal as key phrases still require clarification, such as the exclusion of “terrorist organizations” in being targeted
Syrian president confirms his government’s keenness to contribute to implementing the Russian-US ceasefire deal
Major military commanders now are among the many regime loyalists paying homage to the Russian president’s influence inside Syria
Turkish president accuses US of supporting terrorists in Syria with arms, “which go to terrorists inside Turkey in the end”
Opposition figure says Washington’s policy has been to recycle the funds with which it supports Syrians in a way that stimulates American companies and organizations
United Nations bid to hold talks hampered by diplomatic failure as fighting intensifies on the ground between regime forces and rebels in a number of areas
Loyalist media publish names of regime negotiation team, including relative of controversial opposition figure Roay Sherbiji and notorious security official Samer Bareedi
Washington is truly working for an independent Kurdish state in the near east
Opposition’s negotiating delegation in disarray as US secretary of state warns it could lose political and military support if it refuses to accept the conditions of the upcoming Geneva talks
Will the United States lose the hearts and minds of the Arabs with their current regional policy, which is defined by retreat, as some commentators describe the US pivot away from the Middle East as collusion with Russia and perhaps even Iran?
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
US advises Syria’s political and military opposition to adopt “creative language” when discussing the fate of President Bashar al-Assad during the opposition’s expanded conference in Riyadh this week
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
Opposition representatives iron out kinks ahead of meetings in the Saudi capital, as sources report on the Assad regime’s reservations towards the results of the recent Vienna meetings
President Bashar al-Assad tells Chinese Phoenix TV that you cannot take any concrete political step before defeating terrorism, because this is the biggest obstacle, and this is the prime concern to every Syrian. Following is the full text of the interview, as published by SANA, the regime’s official news agency
United States FM affirms President Assad will have no place in Syria’s future, during phone call with Syrian opposition leader
Hopes for Syrian political solution will remain futile as long as Moscow maintains its preconditions on Assad’s departure in an attempt to deprive Obama of a final diplomatic triumph
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
Is Moscow truly capable of offering real guarantees that the current regime will not rise once again, in a new form?
The foreign ministers of Russia, US, Turkey and Saudi Arabia said they will reconvene next week, invite other regional powers
Moscow to consider proposal from US to convene international meeting on Syria, with the participation of Jordan, Turkey and Saudi Arabia
Russian president hits out at Washington for refusing to host high-level meeting on Syria
Comments disqualify the EU of playing any positive role in finding a solution to the current crisis in Syria, says FM source
But does this almost Hollywood-style Russian intervention have an American director?
It is quite interesting that Washington is still blabbering that “there is no place for Assad in a future Syria”
Experiences of the past do not arouse optimism that this group will make a difference
UN envoy earns approval from Syrian government and opposition to launch parallel negotiations on a number of issues in an effort to end the four-year crisis
Russia is engaging in a tacit competition with Iran – especially amid talks about the impending creation of a regional and international “contact group” after America’s ratification of the Iran deal next month
Russian military support to Syria is part of long-standing and existing agreements, says deputy FM
Assad’s regime even boasts that Moscow’s decision to hunker down demonstrates the strength of bilateral relations
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
Rebels accuse Assad regime of using Egyptian military equipment against opposition fighters as Damascus denounces Turkey for “supporting terrorist groups”
No one has expected or demanded that every party should drop their weapons and forgo their means of pressure
“We open our hands to every Arab initiative. We say hello to those who knock on our door as we seek to stop the bloodshed,” Syria’s foreign minister tells Egyptian press
At some point, I was optimistic that all fighting parties would work seriously to reach a political solution, but the recent massacre in Douma killed my optimism
100 people were killed on Sunday in an air strike by the Syrian military on a market in the rebel-held district of Douma, 15 km northeast of Damascus
Moscow has been able to engineer a new language for the Security Council regarding Syrian affairs, and it has succeeded – largely because the United States has allowed it to succeed
Tehran is helping Assad cope with his manpower shortage by recruiting mercenaries in Lebanon, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Iraq
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
Hezbollah is no longer obsessed with protecting Assad from falling, and is now seriously discussing the protection of its areas of influence inside Syria, as well as ensuring its supply routes and strategic depth
Coalition’s aerial campaign not coordinated with the Syrian government and has deviated from its stated goals of fighting terrorism, says prime minister
Some American and European officials believe that the regime and its allies are leaking this kind of information to reduce pressure on it, and give the impression that ISIS is the only possible alternative
Countries plan for the division of Syria along sectarian lines in an effort to contain the four-year conflict
Influential security official and caretaker of the Syrian-Iranian alliance dies after a long battle with illness
Washington and Moscow agree to continue push for political settlement following high-level meeting between US secretary of state and Russia’s foreign minister
Kurdish fighters from the People’s Protection Units (YPG) have captured the base known as Brigade 93 near the town of Ain Issa
Dozens of fighters withdraw from Pentagon training program in Turkey and Jordan after being forced to sign contract pledging not to attack Assad forces
Representative of the Russian delegation was asked a question regarding Moscow’s view of the possibility of a Syria “after Assad”
The Assad regime’s recent setbacks did not only push its “allies” to act to defend its interests in strategic areas, but also pushed its “enemies” to move to save it – or the rest of it – preventing its fall in the remaining Syrian geography
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
The besieging of Damascus to establish ‘safe zones’ will prevent extremist groups from capitalising on a power vacuum in the city if Assad falls, Coalition president says
US administration would support military escalation in Syria, but it wants a clear political-military plan for the post-Assad stage, according to Western diplomatic sources
UN envoy will hold separate consultations with Syrian, regional and international parties prior to administering recommendations on a third Geneva conference , diplomatic sources claim
Foreign minister says Turkey is continuing its cooperation with the US in training and equipping opposition fighters to establish ‘safe zones’ inside Syria
Russian ambassador says Moscow will continue boosting Syria’s military to fight terrorism
Syria deeply concerned about recent US decision to legalize intervention in Venezuela
Black predicts political demise of the Syrian opposition, warning that by cooperating with Saudi Arabia, the United States is complicit in exporting terrorists to the world
Former Coalition president claims John Kerry’s recent remarks ignore US policy in the region, as well as the American values of human rights and democracy
Women honored for devotion and fortitude in the face of tyranny
‘Meticulous process’ of trainee selection will prevent terrorist infiltration into training program, claims Washington
The US administration can – if it wanted – work to remove the factors responsible for the creation of ISIS in order to prevent the strengthening of it and similar organizations
“Washington is indifferent to what is happening in Syria because its priority is to achieve its objectives with Iran”
Syria’s Muslim Brotherhood leader warns of ISIS, Iran, calls for alliance with Gulf states
Opposition will vote on two more candidates to head the Coalition embassy in Qatar
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
Through a series of workshops the NGO seeks to build the confidence of disadvantaged youth, including those coping with mental difficulties, and will soon look to help some of the youngest and most vulnerable victims the Syrian conflict
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
Moscow-Washington phone call maintains support for a political resolution to the Syrian crisis
From the outset, American officials have acknowledged that there cannot be a clear distinction drawn between Syria and Iraq in the battle against ISIS, largely because the terrorist group doesn’t recognize one and acts accordingly
The plan is part of the U.S. strategy to roll back the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) group that has seized much of eastern and northern Syria
Syria’s dictator has not given up his dream of an atomic weapon and has apparently built a new nuclear facility at a secret location
Syria’s Deputy FM says Syria defiant in the face of Saudi- and Western-sponsored terrorism
Government attitudes towards the Russian Syria talks initiative
The viewpoint of Jordan talks about the need to maintain the Syrian regime and the state apparatus in a transitional phase
The parties discussed Russian ideas about holding a Syrian-Syrian dialogue in Moscow
According to Al-Akhbar, Muallem is pessimisic towards the two initiatives
Washington is not convinced by the envoy’s “bottom up” approach
Asharq Al-Awsat speaks with the US State Department’s Daniel Rubinstein about continuing efforts to secure a political solution to the conflict
Arrest comes just hours after Assad agrees to study de Mistura’s proposal
The Syrian opposition also complains that President Barack Obama’s administration doesn’t allow them to attend meetings with senior officials
Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem spoke to Al-Akhbar unreservedly, and tells the reporter to“publish whatever you see fit from what I said. I will let you judge the situation”
Assad and Daesh are two sides of the same barbaric coin. Assad largely created this monster by deliberately setting free the jihadists who fueled this terrorist movement
Some countries, and particularly those in the West, should use some of the millions of dollars that they are spending on airstrikes targeting ISIS positions to establish new intelligence apparatus and place restrictions on travel and the movement of money in order to confront ISIS from another equally important direction
The regime is now trying to lift the blockade imposed by Syrian rebels and Islamist fighters on the neighborhoods and nearby villages still loyal to Assad in Aleppo, as well as seizing the military initiative in the rest of northwestern Syria
Kurdish fighters weathered an onslaught by ISIS on Tuesday as they awaited promised reinforcements
Moscow, Tehran and Damascus hope that fighting ISIS will help restore the regime’s legitimacy and Iran also wants a place in the new regional system that is emerging
Shortsighted policy results in ineffective airstrikes with no partner on the ground
A decision expected shortly could turn the table of the war
Friends pay tribute to the lawyer who dedicated his own life to defending political detainees
Kerry says U.S. still determined to punish Assad of chemical weapons use
Suri singled out those Arab countries, saying they had lined up “on the side of oppression and of the infidels” and that “this will have consequences”
Louay Hussein, the head of an opposition party based in Damascus, tells The Syrian Observer of the need for the opposition to convince loyalists that it will not treat them as the enemy
Churkin told American Fox News that Washington should respect international law
Mekdad urged the U.S. administration to come forward “energetically and courageously” to join with Syria in the fight against IS, suggesting a broad coalition against the militants
Pro-regime media accuses the U.S. of executing a regional plan
Supporting the opposition could be alternative to both the regime and Islamic State
Syrians will not benefit form any U.S. action unless the opposition unites
Mouallem’s statement coincided with one from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov calling for coordination with the relevant countries
Syria has long accused the US of supporting terrorism in the region and has maintained that the bloody civil war engulfing the country is a war on terrorist groups aiming to destabilize the country
The decision could raise questions about U.S. recognition of the opposition
With the world’s attention focused on Iraq and in the absence of a political solution, the Syrian uprising faces an existential challenge
Here he is now declaring his readiness to give his life on the command of the Iraqi leader of ISIS, the mysterious and bloody figure, Baghdadi
The notion that they were in a position to suddenly overturn not only Assad but also ruthless, highly trained jihadists if we just sent a few arms is a fantasy, Obama says
the President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition says, the international community — led by the United States — must send Assad a clear message: Continued slaughter will not be tolerated, and a military victory is not possible
The White House said Wednesday it would be increasing support for the Syrian opposition, amid reports it is planning to begin training moderate rebels.
Talks with Obama and Holland aimed at providing political cover and support for the opposition
Syrian National Coalition president speaks to Asharq Al-Awsat following “successful” diplomatic tour seeking greater foreign assistance for Syria’s rebels
Obama and national security adviser Susan Rice offered commitments for what the White House calls a political solution to the conflict that includes a transition to a new governing authority
The pilot initiative aims to test whether the missiles will fall into the hands of extremists
There is no evidence the White House is prepared to change its mind
Ambassador Ford’s appropriation of blame is wrong
The decision aims to strip Syrian expatriates of their right to vote in the forthcoming presidential election
Ahmad Jarba was invited on the sidelines of Syrian peace talks in Geneva
U.S. and European policymakers should look beyond the objectives of the Geneva II conference on Syria and implement a comprehensive strategy to push the conflict toward a settlement
Pro-regime demonstrations have been springing up in Damascus, Homs and the coast
The issue of combating terrorism which the regime insisted was addressed to the Americans and the Western world in general, not to the Coalition
Negotiations were held between the Coalition’s team on behalf of Washington, and that of the the regime’s, which only says what Moscow wants
The 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
Coalition wants to postpone Geneva II talks by two weeks
Adnan Abdulrazak writes for The Syrian Observer on the businessman who mediated between the Syrian regime and major superpowers
Official tells BBC that the allies said the group will lose credibility if they don’t attend
Russia is prepared to change its position on the Syrian crisis if Assad does not cooperate with the plan to dismantle his chemical arsenal
After the ceremonies in Montreux when the two Syrian delegations, Lakhdar Brahimi, and Jeffrey Feltman go to Geneva to negotiate, the urgent issues will be somewhere else
If Geneva II is to be held this January, it would come up with nothing more than initiating a series of fragile, futile negotiations
Peace talks between the Syrian regime and opposition next month could open a political path for the “silent majority” of Syrians who support neither side, a former regime spokesman tells says
In his first-ever media interview, Abu Mohammed al-Joulani, leader of Jabhat al-Nusra, says conflict is nearing end
The talks could also decide the future direction of the Islamic Front, which is engaged in a standoff with yet more radical Sunni Muslim fighters
Asharq Al-Awsat speaks with Syrian interim government Prime Minister Ahmed Touhmeh about recent developments on the ground in Syria and the upcoming Geneva II peace conference
The Wall Street Journal reported Idriss fled after Islamists took over his HQ
Toumeh claims regime offered to eliminate Al-Qaeda operatives
Putin’s Russia has lost in Syria, because it overlooked the fact that the Syrian people will defeat the Assad regime
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
The lavish event is drawing condemnation
Rising Kurdish assertiveness in Syria puts Turkey in a particularly tough position as it tries to make peace on its own soil with PKK
The coalition agreed to take part in the conference on the basis of a transfer of power to a transitional ruling authority with full powers,
Hoshyar Zebari speaks with Asharq Al-Awsat about his country’s neutral position towards the Syrian conflict and his attempts to bring the Syrian opposition to the negotiating table at Geneva
Reports suggest U.S. has been unable to stop Gulf money reaching extremists
Syrian Minister for National Reconciliation Ali Haidar believes there is a “serious American thought” being given to “opening channels” with Damascus
Veteran dissident argues America’s interests are served in perpetuating the crisis
A “political solution” in Syria equates between victims and oppressors, and in fact prefers the latter and seeks to perpetuate their actions and protect them from being held to account
Those who want to go to Geneva are linking the conference’s fate to the position that will be adopted by the United States, as though they were wishful to test this position once again
Compromise is the only logical alternative to war, but any resolution is likely to be regional this time
The Russian and American positions would not survive even the most cursory examination
Reports say that cartoonist Akram Raslan was killed under torture
The Syrian National Council threatens to leave the Coalition if the latter goes to Geneva II
Syrians fear that the West has decided to keep Assad and rehabilitate him
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
Saudis, Tunisians and Libyans are among the most frequently encountered nationalities
Elsewhere, activists claim to have discovered mass graves for victims of government forces
Source says Russia insists Assad must run in elections
Lavrov warns Jihadis could threaten their country of origin after Syria
Assad offered to dismantle his chemical weapons, before calling them “imaginary”
There must be a strong Security Council Resolution to verify that the Assad regime is keeping its commitments, and there must be consequences if they fail to do so
Opposition says the Iranian initiative is not serious and lacks political credibility
Kerry said there is no military solution to the crisis
There is no hope to push Western attitudes into a more advanced position in light of the reluctance to forge a direct alliance with the West, or in light of fighting the Baath in a Baathist language
CIA had begun delivering shipments of lethal aid in the past fortnight
The two sides aim at trying to reach an agreement on a U.N. draft resolution that puts chemical weapons in Syria under international supervision
Dmitry Peskov revealed the discussions were conducted on the sidelines of the G20 Summit
Assad’s allies succeeded in mobilizing a broad military front that is prepared to engage in an extended war that could last for months or more
Mouallem’s statement followed Russia’s surprise proposal Monday to secure Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile
President Bashar al-Assad gave an interview to American CBS news. Following is the full text of the interview.
Analysts say former Syrian Defense Minister Ali Habib will have an important role in the negotiations
Syrian dissident Michel Kilo has written to Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying:
Protests have been held across the Americas and elsewhere against U.S. military aggression
In exclusive interview airing Monday, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says he had nothing to do with attack
The Syrian opposition has called on the U.S. cCongress to approve a military action against Bashar Assad
The Coalition says any intervention should be accompanied by more arms for the rebels
Israeli regime carried out missile test to test Syrian air defence?
Sources say Suleimani has become one of the most repressive security decision-maker in Syria
Russia says U.S. evidence of chemical attack in Syria is unconvincing
if the Congress members decide to respect their voters’ wishes, this would mean the turning of the page of the strike
A stroll around the White House grounds with his top adviser on Friday evening changed President Barack Obama’s mind
American decision-makers have concluded that the U.S. is able to absorb all possibilities,
Some loyalists might give up on the regime if the strike is serious, and will hold it responsible
Ford believed that such a strike would weaken Assad’s leverage and force him accept negotiations at Geneva II
Washington impeded the entry of Atropine and other anti-chemical agents to Syria from Turkey
Today, in light of the Western threats to the Syrian people, the “combatants” on the ground have different attitudes on the matter
A military strike on Syria might deter the Assad regime from using chemical weapons again, but it is unlikely to be a game changer in the course of the Syrian conflict
Bashar’s maternal uncle and cousins, the Makhlouf family, head the security and telecommunications sectors, a major cash cow. Cousin Hafez Makhlouf heads the General Intelligence Directorate in Damascus, where Iyad Makhlouf works as well
America has waged many wars, but has never been able to achieve its political objectives from any of them: Assad
Iran believes the alleged gas attack in Ghouta was carried out by terrorists
The two presidents agreed to stay in close contact to arrive at a joint response to this unprecedented aggression
Ironically, the regime’s newest attack falls one year to the day since Obama issued his “red line” threat
The hackers are computer experts who support embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad
While prices increase with the increase of the value of the dollar, they do not decrease when the dollar goes down
The West is starting to realize the horror of the situation in Syria, but their wake up came too late
Foreign Minister says U.S. is insincere about seeking a political solution
US Joint Chiefs of Staff has offered five military options, including limited strikes and establishing a no-fly zone
The move is “a prime example of our dysfunctional Syria policy,” a senior aide to a Senate Republican tells Josh Rogin
Russia denies it has evacuated personnel from its Tartus resupply base
U.N. envoy says report omits important developments in the Syrian Golan
Coalition also criticized foreign minister’s denial of use of chemical weapons by the Syrian regime
Friends of Syria group has agreed to provide military aid to the Syrian opposition in order to redress the power balance in the country and force President Bashar Al-Assad
Regardless of the extent of regional and international presence on the Syrian arena, the internal forces will continue to enjoy the last say in directing the events and determining their course and outcome
Russia’s opposition comes amid reports the U.S. is preparing an air-exclusion zone from Jordan
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
Washington has decided to lift an economic blockade, allowing companies to make economic deals with armed opposition groups
The NCC will try to gain a condemnation from the United Nations on the participation of foreign fighters
Long-term, the Vice President of the Brookings Insitute said some kind of no-fly zone would need to be imposed
Now with the regime using Scud missiles and chemical weapons, it has become too late to even demand no-fly zones
A resettlement plan aims to help both the hard-hit Syrian families and other Middle Eastern countries that are straining to support 1.6 million refugees
Report says U.S. representatives conveyed to Hassoun Washington’s conviction that extremist radical groups related to Al-Qaeda have penetrated the Syrian opposition structures
France says the Syrian regime has used chemical gases and “all options” are now on the table
Syria’s Ambassador to Jordan, Bahjat Suleiman said that the American administration will give “decisive orders” to its allies and partners that it is now “Game Over”
UK Foreign Secretary William Hague calls on Syrian opposition to negotiate with Assad regime
Prime Minister Wael al-Halqi said Wednesday internal national dialogue is the only means to reach a political solution, to stop the bloodshed and the destruction of the state in Syria.
Syria’s U.N. envoy, Bashar al-Jaafari said Wednesday the draft resolution on Syria submitted to the U.N. General Assembly aims to inflame the current crisis.
For analysts familiar with the politics of Syria, the country’s descent into chaos amounts to an all-too-predictable pattern. It also parallels what Rami Makhlouf, a major regime figure and first cousin of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, bluntly announced that, among other things, Syrians faced the Assad regime or domestic and regional chaos.
Syria says the US Ambassador to Damascus Robert Ford reportedly issued instructions from the Obama administration to the members of the opposition “National Coalition of Doha” to join political efforts
Many political commentators have attempted to discern Israel’s real reasons for the dual strike it launched on military targets in Syria at the end of last week.
Secretary of State Kerry chose to recognize in Kremlin the existence of “significant common interests with respect to Syria” for both the American and Russian sides, thus reassuring Putin that the end of the war will only be secured through dual sponsorship – whose lines are drawn by Washington and Moscow – and that the Libya experience will not be reiterated as promised by Obama and repeated by NATO on many occasions.
Syrian press editorials expressed the regime’s suspicion of the US Secretary of State John Kerry.
Haitham Manna rejects any form of intervention in Syria and said Israeli strikes against the country have come at a time when Syria are more vulnerable than ever to external intervention.
The overtures of Syrian official newspapers dealt with the Israeli aggression on Syria, here are extracts from these overtures:
In Syria, the US is not seated behind NATO troops, but rather behind the Free Syrian Army (FSA) and the Al-Nusra Front. Washington is allowing all of these groups to lead in the hope that it will reap the last-minute benefit: seeing Assad removed from power with the least possible effort.
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.
NATO’s refusal to respond to Alkhatib’s plea for Patriot missile-cover for rebel held areas of northern Syria will encourage the Al-Assad regime to continue to act with impunity, the Syrian National Coalition leader said on Wednesday.
Moaz al-Khatib, leader of the Western-based Syrian opposition coalition has resigned, citing frustrations with the body’s inability to advance the fight against President Bashar Assad.
“It is unfortunate that Moaz al-Khatib has resigned today as President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition. Sheikh Moaz is a fine and decent man who served the democratic cause of the Syrian people with dignity.”
The “eternal” alliance and “unbreakable bond” between Israel and the US is but the real threat, because it hasn’t been used for peace in the Middle East, but for wars, killing and blood.
Several bodies of international law provide standards applicable to the Syrian crisis, including international humanitarian law, international criminal law, and international human rights law
It has become clear in recent weeks that a change in the balance of power would have to precede any form of negotiation with the Assad regime. This change has now been demonstrated in the arming of the opposition, enabling it to deter the regime’s army, break its siege of Homs, and expedite its collapse in and around Damascus.
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.
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.
Obama’s logic is frightening, and his understanding of the region terrifying and in doubt, particularly as he is the man who saw a revolution in Bahrain and pushed Mubarak to step down while today he is saying that he is working hard to assess the situation in Syria!
Washington’s enthusiasm for the emergence of a government offering an alternative to the Assad regime is somewhere between well-guarded and non-existent.
In light of the absence of any signs pointing to an imminent military settlement or political solution, the opposition has no choice but to go back to the Syrian domestic scene and rely on its political and military powers to even out the balance of powers and impose the solution wanted by the Syrians.
Evidence has been found suggesting that Syria’s military used chemical weapons against its own people last month, in what one Israeli intelligence official said last night was a test to gauge the reaction of the US and its allies.
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.
Both Britain and Washington have denied knowing Makdissi’s whereabouts, whilst rumors about Makdissi’s fate abound in Lebanon. As for the al-Assad regime, it has remained silent, insisting that Makdissi is on “administrative leave”. So what is the fate of Jihad Makdissi? Asharq Al-Awsat has obtained important details regarding Makdissi’s movements over his final days and weeks in Syria prior to his disappearance.
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.
There is nothing so dangerous as a former superpower unaware of its own diminished role. What the Kremlin of Vladimir Putin today lacks in ideology, it more than makes up for in invidious posturing.
while Russia’s Putin reiterates Moscows differences with the EU over the situation in Syria, President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, calss for efforts to reach a political solution to the crisis in Syria
Secretary Clinton announced recently that Washington is re-organizing the front of the armed terrorist gangs in Syria, which means according to the Global Research that it will withdrew its support to the Istanbul Council (the Syrian National council), in signals to the American readiness to interfere after the American elections.
“The Russian-Chinese veto has foiled this imperialist intervention three times, to uphold the international law regarding the Syrian case.”