live Israel launches fresh strikes on Iran despite Trump's warning
Israel said it struck military targets in western and central Iran on Monday, even after U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly told Israeli Prime Min...
Syrian President Ahmad al‑Sharaa held separate telephone discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Friday (9 January), focusing on Syria’s internal security situation, reconstruction efforts and broader regional developments.
In the call with Macron, al‑Sharaa discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation and Syria’s role on the international stage, according to official statements.
He thanked France for its support during Syria’s transitional phase and its backing for reconstruction, underscoring the importance of safeguarding all segments of Syrian society, including the Kurdish community.
Macron has previously reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting a “free and stable” Syria and indicated willingness to consider easing European Union sanctions if conditions on stability and rights are met.
During his conversation with Erdoğan, the focus was on security issues, particularly around Aleppo, where clashes between Syrian government forces and Kurdish‑led fighters have driven tens of thousands of people from their homes in recent days, according to media reports.
The leaders discussed efforts to curb “illegal armed activities” that officials say are hindering reconstruction and agreed on the importance of close coordination to address shared challenges and threats.
Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye’s support for strengthening security and stabilisation, noting Ankara’s interest in joint efforts to tackle militancy and preserve territorial integrity.
Both sides agreed to maintain close cooperation between relevant government institutions going forward.
The calls come as al‑Sharaa’s administration works to consolidate authority following the collapse of the Assad regime in late 2024 and amid stalled negotiations over integration of the Kurdish‑led Syrian Democratic Forces into the national army.
Internationally, al‑Sharaa has sought to rebuild diplomatic ties since assuming office, including urging the lifting of sanctions imposed during the Assad era. France has hosted him in Paris, and Türkiye has repeatedly highlighted its support for Syria’s recovery.
Counting is underway in Armenia's elections. The results of the vote are set to determine the political direction of the country of three million people for the next few years. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is hoping to fend off challenges from several pro-Russia candidates to secure a third term.
Armenian authorities arrested six candidates from the pro-Russian Strong Armenia bloc on Saturday, one day before voters were due to take part in parliamentary elections.
The Prime Minister's party is in the lead as Armenian media are reporting that the country's Central Election Commission has completed the vote count in the parliamentary elections. An official announcement is still expected.
Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry has confirmed the number of casualties its citizens suffered as a result of the 5 June drone attacks on the cargo ships Natra and Zircon in the Sea of Azov. In a statement, it said four Azerbaijani citizens were killed and four others were injured.
The results of Armenia’s parliamentary elections will determine the makeup of the National Assembly and shape the country's political direction for the foreseeable future. But in Armenia, the final result is not decided by vote percentages alone. Here's how it works.
Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry has confirmed the number of casualties its citizens suffered as a result of the 5 June drone attacks on the cargo ships Natra and Zircon in the Sea of Azov. In a statement, it said four Azerbaijani citizens were killed and four others were injured.
The United Nations has warned that Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, with around 600 mothers dying for every 100,000 live births.
In a workshop surrounded by the wreckage of war, workers in Gaza are giving a second life to small leisure boats once used for family outings and swimming trips.
A seven-month-old Palestinian baby has been killed and his parents injured after Israeli forces fired at a vehicle in Hebron, Palestinian health officials say.
The U.S. said it struck Iranian radar sites on Qeshm Island and in Goruk after intercepting four drones, while Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they launches retaliatory strikes on four tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and targeted U.S. bases in the Gulf.
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