Syria

UN extends peacekeeping mission in Golan Heights amid rising tensions

Security Council renews mandate for UNDOF as Israeli presence in demilitarized zone draws criticism.

US held "very productive" first meeting with Syria's al-Sharaa

Senior U.S. diplomats met with Syria's new de facto ruler, Ahmed al-Sharaa, on Friday, discussing Syria's political transition. Following a "productive" meeting, the U.S. decided to remove a bounty on al-Sharaa's head.

Beyond words: AnewZ in Syria

Syrian education revamp: Girls' schooling unrestricted, Baath party references removed

New government focuses on rebuilding Syria’s education system, damaged by 13 years of war.

Christmas celebrations in Damascus

Christmas events are celebrated in Syria's capital Damascus, just thirteen days after the defeat of President Bashar Al-Assad's regime.

Syria’s de facto leader calls for national reconciliation and lifting of sanctions

Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa (also known as Abu Mohammad al-Golani), called for national reconciliation and the lifting of international sanctions.

Pentagon acknowledges over 2,000 U.S. troops in Syria

The Pentagon revealed on Thursday (December 19) that the actual number of U.S. troops currently stationed in Syria stands at approximately 2,000, more than double the publicly acknowledged figure of 900.

Syrian Air launches first domestic flight after Assad’s fall

In a significant milestone for Syria’s recovery, Syrian Air launched its first domestic flight on Wednesday after the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad.

Inclusive Transition Key to Rebuilding Syria, Says UN Envoy

The UN has called for an inclusive political transition in Syria, stressing that progress in this area is critical for securing the economic aid needed to rebuild the war-torn country. UN special envoy Geir Pedersen emphasized that inclusive political transition in Syria is crucial.

UN refugee agency expects 1 million Syrians to return in six months

The UN refugee agency expects 1 million Syrian refugees to return in early 2025 but urges nations not to force returns, citing ongoing humanitarian needs and uncertainty after rebels seized power.

Damascus struggles with soaring transport costs amid fuel shortages

Syrians in Damascus are grappling with skyrocketing transportation costs as fuel shortages leave buses and taxis struggling to operate.

Türkiye’s role crucial after Assad’s fall, Trump says

US President-elect Donald Trump stated that Türkiye will play a pivotal role in shaping Syria's future, following the recent fall of Bashar al-Assad's government, as Türkiye reopens diplomatic ties with Damascus after supporting the victorious rebel forces.

Germany joins U.S., UK in making diplomatic contact with Syria's HTS

Germany to hold talks with HTS in Damascus, exploring Syria's transition, minority protection, and potential diplomatic presence after Assad's overthrow.

Assad issues first statement since fall of government

Syria's ousted President, Bashar al-Assad has issued a statement for the first time since his government was overthrown by the rebel group over a week ago.

Kremlin to Determine Future of Russia's Syria Bases

In Moscow, the Kremlin says no final decision has been made on the fate of Russia's military bases in Syria. This is after Syrian officials said Russia is pulling its troops from the bases. Russia also claims to be in direct contact with Syria's new authorities.

EU moves to engage with Syria's new government

The European Union has taken its first step toward direct engagement with Syria's new government. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas announced that the bloc’s top diplomat for Syria will travel to Damascus for talks with the new leadership.

Dutch suspend Syrian asylum amid political shifts

Amid Syria's shifting political landscape, former Assad regime soldier Ahmed Masry, seeking asylum in the Netherlands, fears deportation to a country where defectors face deadly consequences. As Europe tightens immigration policies, tens of thousands of Syrian asylum claims remain in limbo.

Syria’s Leader Calls for Reassessment of 2015 UN Roadmap

UN Syria envoy Geir Pedersen met with Syria's de facto leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, on Sunday, where Sharaa called for a reassessment of the 2015 UN roadmap for Syria's political transition. The discussions focused on lifting sanctions and revising the roadmap to facilitate governance and elections.

Schools reopen in Damascus after rebels take control of the city

Students in Syria’s capital, Damascus, returned to classrooms on Sunday following an order by the country’s new rulers. This is their attempt to stabilize the war-torn nation.

U.S. IN CONTACT WITH SYRIAN REBEL GROUP

United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, says the US had direct contact with the rebel faction which overthrew Syria's President Bashar al-Assad.

Russian Forces Withdraw Following Political Shift in Syria

Russia is withdrawing its military assets from Syria following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces, with satellite images and video footage showing organized convoys and increased activity at key Russian military bases.