Across the world, countless families impacted by the Syrian civil war are now making life-changing decisions to rebuild their lives. Ala Jabeer, a Syrian refugee, is embarking on an emotional journey back to his homeland after 13 years of displacement.
Ala Jabeer, a Syrian refugee, tearfully prepared to return to Syria from Turkey with his 10-year-old daughter, Sirin, 13 years after fleeing the war. His return comes after losing his wife and three other children in the devastating earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria in early 2023, killing over 50,000 people and ravaging the Antakya region where his family had lived.
Jabeer first arrived in Turkey’s Hatay province in 2011 after Syrian rebels ousted Bashar al-Assad from Damascus. Now, following recent rebel advances and Assad's reported exile to Russia, Turkey reopened the Yayladagi border crossing, encouraging voluntary returns for some of the 3 million Syrian refugees it hosts.
Hopeful for a better future, Jabeer expressed gratitude to Turkey for its support during his years of refuge but was eager to reunite with his mother in Latakia, who could help care for his daughter while he worked. "We believe the new administration will bring an end to oppression," he said.
Turkey, which controls parts of northern Syria, emphasized its commitment to "voluntary, safe, dignified, and regular returns" as stability improves in Syria. The reopened border crossing marks a significant step in facilitating these returns after years of closure due to conflict.
Read next
02:27
Strategic Agreement
Syria has entered into an $800 million memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dubai World to develop, manage, and operate a multi-purpose terminal at the port of Tartous, marking a significant shift in the nation's maritime infrastructure strategy.
00:13
Policy Shift
The United States is preparing to ease sanctions on Syria in the coming weeks, following President Donald Trump's unexpected announcement to lift all restrictions targeting Damascus.
13:10
world news
U.S. President Donald Trump met with Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, marking a significant shift in U.S. policy as Washington announced plans to lift all sanctions on Syria and explore the possibility of normalizing relations with Damascus.
10:42
World News
U.S. President Donald Trump is set to meet Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant diplomatic gesture as Washington lifts sanctions on Syria. The visit is part of Trump's four-day Gulf region tour, emphasizing economic cooperation and regional stability.
03:05
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that sanctions on Syria will be lifted. Following the decision, people in Damascus took to the streets in celebration.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment