Türkiye’s United Nations envoy called on the international community on Thursday to maintain strong support for the elimination of Syria’s remaining chemical weapons, stressing that the task is both a legal obligation and a critical priority for regional security and humanitarian protection.
In a UN Security Council session, Ahmet Yildiz welcomed steps taken by Syria’s new authorities, noting that Syrians last month marked the first anniversary of their December 2024 liberation “with a sense of hope and optimism.” He acknowledged the Syrian government’s commitment to stability, governance, and citizens’ well-being.
“Much remains to be accomplished,” Yildiz said, emphasising that eliminating chemical weapons capabilities is a legal requirement under the Chemical Weapons Convention and a vital security and humanitarian imperative. He added that the Syrian government cannot complete the task alone due to the technical, operational, and financial complexities involved.
Yildiz urged the international community to seize an “historic opportunity” to provide long-term, sustained support, adding that Türkiye is ready to continue its assistance alongside the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
Addressing regional tensions, Yildiz warned that Israel’s airstrikes and hybrid military operations in Syria have damaged former chemical weapons sites, endangered civilians, and disrupted OPCW missions. He called on the international community to ensure such actions are restrained.
Chemical weapons use in Syria dates back to at least August 2013, when sarin gas attacks on Ghouta killed more than 1,400 people. Syria joined the OPCW later that year. Subsequent confirmed attacks in Al-Lataminah (2017) and Idlib (2018) led to partial suspension of Syria’s membership rights.
Since the departure of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, following nearly 25 years in power, Syria has been under new leadership, with President Ahmed al-Sharaa meeting OPCW officials in February 2025 to advance disarmament efforts.
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Azerbaijan has dispatched a new rail shipment of petroleum products to Armenia, marking a continued resumption of trade following the lifting of long standing transit restrictions.
Venezuela has released Former opposition candidate Enrique Marquez and prominent Venezuelan-Spanish rights activist Rocío San Miguel and four other Spanish citizens, local rights group Foro Penal confirmed on Thursday (9 January).
Tens of thousands of Iranians have taken to the streets in Tehran and across at least 28 cities in a wave of anti-government demonstrations, now entering their twelfth day.
Russian drone and missile attacks on Kyiv early on Friday (9 January) killed at least 4 people, injured at least 19, and caused significant damage to residential buildings and critical infrastructure, Ukrainian officials said.
Snow and ice stalled travellers in northwest Europe on Wednesday, forcing around a thousand to spend the night in Amsterdam's Schiphol airport but delighting others who set out to explore a snow-blanketed Paris on sledges and skis.
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Iran could face a strong response from the United States if its authorities kill protesters amid ongoing unrest.
Snow and ice caused travel chaos in northwest Europe on Wednesday, while others were delighted by the snow-covered streets of Paris, venturing out on sledges and skis.
Iran is now facing a near‑total internet blackout as anti-government protests sweep the country. Major cities including Tehran have seen connectivity drop sharply, leaving millions of residents isolated from online communication.
Hungary’s foreign minister on Wednesday criticised European plans to establish military hubs in Ukraine, saying the move risks pushing Europe closer to a direct confrontation with Russia.
New York City parents could soon have access to free childcare for two-year-old children following a joint announcement made by Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday (8 January).
French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that the U.S. is “gradually turning away” from some of its allies and “breaking free from international rules”.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for the 9th of January, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Russian drone and missile attacks on Kyiv early on Friday (9 January) killed at least 4 people, injured at least 19, and caused significant damage to residential buildings and critical infrastructure, Ukrainian officials said.
Venezuela has released Former opposition candidate Enrique Marquez and prominent Venezuelan-Spanish rights activist Rocío San Miguel and four other Spanish citizens, local rights group Foro Penal confirmed on Thursday (9 January).
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