As his regime crumbled, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad orchestrated a secret operation to smuggle cash, valuables, and sensitive documents out of the country. Utilizing an Embraer Legacy 600 jet, Assad made four covert flights from Syria to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, just before his regime's fall in December, as rebels led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham closed in on Damascus.

The operation, named 'Operation Assad,' was managed by Yasar Ibrahim, Assad's top economic adviser. The jet, registered in Gambia with the tail number C5-SKY, carried at least $500,000 in cash, along with documents, laptops, and hard drives containing crucial information about Assad's business network, referred to as 'The Group.' The Republican Guard and Air Force Intelligence were involved, indicating Assad's direct involvement.

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared that a new era has begun in Syria following the December 8 revolution, asserting that there is no possibility of returning to the pre-revolution period. He emphasized Turkey's commitment to preventing the division of Syria, particularly through a terrorism corridor known as the 'Terör koridoru'.

Erdogan highlighted Turkey's efforts to neutralize the PKK terrorist group within the country and its operations across the border into northern Syria and Iraq, aiming to eradicate terrorism at its source through 'Sınır ötesi harekatlar'. He stressed that Turkey does not want new crises to emerge in the region, which has been plagued by instability and conflicts for years. This comes after the PKK's jailed leader, Abdullah Öcalan, called for the group's disbandment, and as Turkey continues to target the YPG in Syria and PKK members in the Kandil region of Iraq.

In addition to security concerns, Erdogan expressed Turkey's desire for Syria to achieve full stability after years of war. He mentioned Turkey's readiness to coordinate and cooperate with all ministries and private sector institutions to achieve strategic cooperation and economic and social integration with Syria, aligning with the 'Terror-free Türkiye initiative'.

Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, also known as Ahmad Al-Julani, has been named one of TIME magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2025 in the Leaders category. TIME described Al-Sharaa as the president who governs all of Syria and is able to balance between former hardliners he once led and liberals who welcomed the departure of former President Bashar al-Assad. His inclusion in the list highlights his influence in the region amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The list also includes former U.S. President Donald Trump. The recognition has drawn attention due to Al-Sharaa's background as the leader of the militant group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham and his role in the Syrian opposition's transitional government. The Pentagon has commented on reports about the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria in the context of these developments.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited Qatar, his first trip since the fall of the Assad regime, meeting Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and members of the Syrian community. Accompanied by Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani, the visit aimed to enhance cooperation and integration between Syria and Qatar, which al-Sharaa stated was crucial for promoting stability and prosperity for both nations.

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Since December 9, 2024, over 175,000 Syrian refugees have voluntarily returned to Syria from Turkey, according to Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. He described the returns as voluntary, safe, honorable, and organized. This figure represents approximately 33,730 families. The total number of Syrian refugees who have returned home in recent years now exceeds 915,000. The returns have followed the fall of the Assad regime. The Turkish Directorate of Migration Management, established 12 years ago, has been managing this complex migration process. Additionally, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Syria has organized convoys to support the voluntary return of displaced Syrians, including a recent convoy transporting 84 people from Areesha camp to Deir-ez-Zor. The returns are part of broader efforts to assist Syrians displaced by the civil war, with ongoing humanitarian support and logistics to facilitate safe repatriation. Alongside these developments, Syrians have begun moving household belongings from Turkey back to Syria, and celebrations have been held marking the first anniversary of the end of the French mandate following the fall of the Assad government.

A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation is expected to visit Syria in the coming days, marking the first such visit since 2017. The visit aims to assess the current situation, explore humanitarian needs, and engage with local authorities amid ongoing changes in Syrian governance, including the reported departure of Bashar al-Assad from power and the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Concurrently, the U.S. military has initiated a phased withdrawal from its Conoco base in Deir ez-Zor, eastern Syria, with the first convoy of over 70 vehicles having departed approximately ten days ago. This drawdown includes the removal of some military equipment from the Conoco and Al-Omar oil fields in northeastern Syria. The U.S. forces are reportedly relocating towards the Kurdistan region in northern Iraq. On the Syrian side, the Ministry of Interior announced a restructuring plan that consolidates security and police leadership under a single official in each governorate, replacing the previous dual-directorate system. The ministry is also advancing reforms in criminal investigations and drug enforcement. Additionally, Syrian President Al-Shar visits Qatar, and Western security firms are reportedly studying the Syrian market. The developments coincide with discussions in the U.S. about potentially lifting sanctions on Syria.

Syrian Interior Minister Anas Khattab announced that a coup attempt planned by former military officers has been successfully thwarted. The minister stated that the threat, orchestrated by officers from the previous regime, is now behind them, thanks to the efforts of the security forces and the public. This announcement highlights ongoing tensions within the Syrian government and the challenges posed by remnants of the former regime.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared that Turkey will continue to prioritize justice, peace, and diplomacy amidst escalating tensions and emerging crises in the region. Speaking after a Cabinet meeting in Ankara on April 15, 2025, Erdogan emphasized Turkey's commitment to these values as a response to the ongoing challenges.

Erdogan also addressed the situation in Syria, stating that Turkey will stand against any attempts to prevent the country from achieving lasting peace and stability. He warned that those who hinder Syria's progress will face opposition from both the Syrian government and Turkey. Erdogan reiterated Turkey's stance against the division of Syria, particularly through what he described as a 'terror corridor' since the events of 8 December 2024.

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The Syrian Ministry of Interior announced the arrest of Salem Dagestani, the former head of the investigation branch of the Air Force Intelligence Directorate, who is implicated in war crimes. Dagestani previously held key positions, including head of the investigation department at Sednaya Prison and head of the security committee in Eastern Ghouta. The ministry's announcement follows a restructuring plan aimed at enhancing security operations, which includes appointing a single official in each governorate to oversee both police and security functions. Minister Anas Khattab also reported that a coup plot involving former regime officers has been thwarted.

Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat embarked on a two-day official visit to Damascus, Syria, beginning April 16, 2025, marking the highest-profile visit by a Turkish economic official since the ouster of Bashar Assad. The visit aims to discuss and enhance bilateral cooperation on trade, transport, investment, energy, and reconstruction efforts in Syria. Bolat's delegation includes representatives from various Turkish ministries such as transport, economic institutions, civil society, chambers of commerce and industry, and the contractors' union. During the visit, Bolat met with Syrian Economy and Industry Minister Nidal al-Shaar, Transport Minister Yarub Suleiman Badr, Finance Minister Mohammed Yasser Barnia, and the Director of Land and Sea Ports Administration, Kutayba Ahmed Bedevi. The discussions focused on building a new, stable Syria through cooperation in industry, trade, and energy. Bolat emphasized Turkey's readiness to coordinate fully with Syria, describing the relationship as "two states, one nation." Concurrently, the Syrian government held meetings with a World Bank delegation to explore technical and economic cooperation for the upcoming phase of Syria's recovery. Syrian Economy Minister Nidal al-Shaar described the visit as the beginning of a productive partnership between the Syrian and Turkish peoples. The visit also involved Turkish business leaders and aimed to contribute to the reconstruction of war-torn Syria.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam made his first official visit to Damascus on April 15, 2025, where he met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. This visit marked the first trip by a senior Lebanese official to Syria since the formation of Lebanon's new government, signaling a potential reset in the historically strained relations between the two countries. Following this, high-level reciprocal visits have been noted between Syria and Qatar, indicating a new phase in their bilateral relations. Meanwhile, a bipartisan U.S. Congressional delegation is preparing to visit Syria for the first time since 2017, amidst a change in Syrian leadership with Bashar al-Assad no longer in power and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) now controlling significant areas. Additionally, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is scheduled to visit Damascus on April 18, 2025, to meet with President Ahmad al-Sharaa. On the same day, Jordan's Foreign Minister Safadi is also visiting Damascus to hold talks with President al-Sharaa and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani. These visits reflect a broader diplomatic engagement with Syria by regional and international actors after years of isolation.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is planning to visit Syria, as confirmed by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Preparations are underway to determine the timing and conditions for the visit, following the December 8 revolution that led to the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime.

The announcement was made during the 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum, held from April 11-13, 2025, under the theme 'Reclaiming Diplomacy in a Fragmented World.' The forum featured 14 meetings between Erdogan and various global leaders, including Syria's new president Ahmed al-Sharaa, and addressed topics such as regional stability and cooperation.

Erdogan's visit would mark the first by a Turkish president to Syria since Assad's regime was overthrown. Turkey has since supported Syria's new administration, reopened its embassy in Damascus, and strengthened economic and diplomatic ties with the country.

Since the fall of the former regime in Syria, the coastal region, including Tartous, Latakia, Homs, and Hama, has experienced sectarian violence targeting the Alawite minority. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), these attacks have resulted in the deaths of 2,161 people from the Alawite community. A wave of revenge attacks a month ago killed hundreds of Alawite civilians, and despite promises from the interim government, the minority continues to face targeted violence and threats, particularly in areas such as Hmeimem where thousands remain displaced due to fears of militant groups affiliated with the faction led by Jolani. Since early April, dozens more Alawites have been killed in smaller, scattered attacks. The ongoing sectarian violence has left the Alawite community living in fear, with reports describing continued massacres and campaigns of disinformation aimed at forcing them to leave their homes.

UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen has called for a unified international approach to support Syria's stability, emphasizing the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty and the 1974 disengagement agreement with Israel. This statement follows a visit by UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo, who discussed a comprehensive political transition led by Syria that meets the aspirations of its people. Additionally, the Deputy UN Envoy to Syria reported a positive meeting with the Syrian investigation committee, appreciating its approach regarding recent events in the coastal region.

European Union foreign policy chief, Kaia Kalas, announced that the EU will conduct an evaluation regarding the potential easing of sanctions on Syria. This discussion is scheduled to take place today, with Kalas noting that the Syrian authorities have not made the necessary progress required for any changes to the current sanctions regime. The EU foreign ministers have reportedly agreed on a roadmap to temporarily ease sanctions affecting the energy, transportation, and banking sectors. However, Kalas emphasized that significant advancements from the new Syrian leadership are still lacking, and the political future of the country remains fragile. Additionally, the United Nations has been actively engaging with Syrian officials regarding political transitions and humanitarian responses, indicating ongoing international interest in the situation in Syria.

An explosion of unexploded ordnance in the town of Tseel, located in western rural Daraa, Syria, resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals, including four children, and injured three others. The incident occurred on April 15, when the explosive detonated as children were playing in an open area. Local health authorities confirmed the fatalities and injuries, urging residents to report any suspicious objects to ensure safety. The situation highlights ongoing dangers from remnants of war in the region.

Syria's Ambassador to Moscow, Bashar Jaafari, has reportedly requested political asylum in Russia, according to the Russian state news agency TASS. The request comes after Jaafari was recalled to Damascus last week as part of a reorganization of the diplomatic corps following the fall of the Assad regime. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously granted asylum to former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad after his ousting.

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Recent developments indicate that Syria is on track to recognize Israel by the end of 2026. Akram Hassoun, a former member of the Knesset, confirmed that Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa met with Israeli officials in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Reports suggest that Al Jolani, the leader of the Syrian Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, is also involved in discussions with Israeli officials. A British diplomatic source stated that Al Jolani assured the UK of Syria's commitment to normalizing relations with Israel, which includes recognizing the state and exchanging ambassadors. This meeting in Abu Dhabi marks a significant step in the evolving relationship between Syria and Israel, with implications for broader regional dynamics.

On April 13, 2025, the Eighth Brigade, a prominent armed group in Daraa province, Syria, officially announced its disbandment and the integration of its members into the Syrian Ministry of Defense. This decision follows a request from the United Arab Emirates, which has been actively trying to influence the Syrian landscape. The Eighth Brigade has been operational in the region since 2018 and played a role in the offensive that concluded the Syrian civil war. The announcement of its dissolution was unexpected, especially after the group had previously rejected a proposal to join the Ministry of Defense in January 2025. Analysts suggest that this move may reflect changing dynamics in the region, particularly concerning relations with Russia and the UAE.

Syria's Minister of Finance is engaging with a delegation from the World Bank to enhance financial relations and improve the operations of Syrian banks. This meeting is part of a broader effort as Syrian ministers, including the central bank chief, prepare to attend the upcoming International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank spring meetings in Washington. The discussions are aimed at updating the financial and banking sector in Syria, with a focus on technical and economic cooperation for the upcoming phase. The Syrian Foreign Ministry has also indicated that the World Bank is discussing tools to support the Syrian economy.

As his regime crumbled, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad orchestrated a secret operation to smuggle cash, valuables, and sensitive documents out of the country. Utilizing an Embraer Legacy 600 jet, Assad made four covert flights from Syria to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, just before his regime's fall in December, as rebels led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham closed in on Damascus.

The operation, named 'Operation Assad,' was managed by Yasar Ibrahim, Assad's top economic adviser. The jet, registered in Gambia with the tail number C5-SKY, carried at least $500,000 in cash, along with documents, laptops, and hard drives containing crucial information about Assad's business network, referred to as 'The Group.' The Republican Guard and Air Force Intelligence were involved, indicating Assad's direct involvement.

Read more

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared that a new era has begun in Syria following the December 8 revolution, asserting that there is no possibility of returning to the pre-revolution period. He emphasized Turkey's commitment to preventing the division of Syria, particularly through a terrorism corridor known as the 'Terör koridoru'.

Erdogan highlighted Turkey's efforts to neutralize the PKK terrorist group within the country and its operations across the border into northern Syria and Iraq, aiming to eradicate terrorism at its source through 'Sınır ötesi harekatlar'. He stressed that Turkey does not want new crises to emerge in the region, which has been plagued by instability and conflicts for years. This comes after the PKK's jailed leader, Abdullah Öcalan, called for the group's disbandment, and as Turkey continues to target the YPG in Syria and PKK members in the Kandil region of Iraq.

In addition to security concerns, Erdogan expressed Turkey's desire for Syria to achieve full stability after years of war. He mentioned Turkey's readiness to coordinate and cooperate with all ministries and private sector institutions to achieve strategic cooperation and economic and social integration with Syria, aligning with the 'Terror-free Türkiye initiative'.

Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, also known as Ahmad Al-Julani, has been named one of TIME magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2025 in the Leaders category. TIME described Al-Sharaa as the president who governs all of Syria and is able to balance between former hardliners he once led and liberals who welcomed the departure of former President Bashar al-Assad. His inclusion in the list highlights his influence in the region amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The list also includes former U.S. President Donald Trump. The recognition has drawn attention due to Al-Sharaa's background as the leader of the militant group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham and his role in the Syrian opposition's transitional government. The Pentagon has commented on reports about the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria in the context of these developments.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited Qatar, his first trip since the fall of the Assad regime, meeting Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and members of the Syrian community. Accompanied by Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani, the visit aimed to enhance cooperation and integration between Syria and Qatar, which al-Sharaa stated was crucial for promoting stability and prosperity for both nations.

Read more

Since December 9, 2024, over 175,000 Syrian refugees have voluntarily returned to Syria from Turkey, according to Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. He described the returns as voluntary, safe, honorable, and organized. This figure represents approximately 33,730 families. The total number of Syrian refugees who have returned home in recent years now exceeds 915,000. The returns have followed the fall of the Assad regime. The Turkish Directorate of Migration Management, established 12 years ago, has been managing this complex migration process. Additionally, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Syria has organized convoys to support the voluntary return of displaced Syrians, including a recent convoy transporting 84 people from Areesha camp to Deir-ez-Zor. The returns are part of broader efforts to assist Syrians displaced by the civil war, with ongoing humanitarian support and logistics to facilitate safe repatriation. Alongside these developments, Syrians have begun moving household belongings from Turkey back to Syria, and celebrations have been held marking the first anniversary of the end of the French mandate following the fall of the Assad government.

A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation is expected to visit Syria in the coming days, marking the first such visit since 2017. The visit aims to assess the current situation, explore humanitarian needs, and engage with local authorities amid ongoing changes in Syrian governance, including the reported departure of Bashar al-Assad from power and the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Concurrently, the U.S. military has initiated a phased withdrawal from its Conoco base in Deir ez-Zor, eastern Syria, with the first convoy of over 70 vehicles having departed approximately ten days ago. This drawdown includes the removal of some military equipment from the Conoco and Al-Omar oil fields in northeastern Syria. The U.S. forces are reportedly relocating towards the Kurdistan region in northern Iraq. On the Syrian side, the Ministry of Interior announced a restructuring plan that consolidates security and police leadership under a single official in each governorate, replacing the previous dual-directorate system. The ministry is also advancing reforms in criminal investigations and drug enforcement. Additionally, Syrian President Al-Shar visits Qatar, and Western security firms are reportedly studying the Syrian market. The developments coincide with discussions in the U.S. about potentially lifting sanctions on Syria.

Syrian Interior Minister Anas Khattab announced that a coup attempt planned by former military officers has been successfully thwarted. The minister stated that the threat, orchestrated by officers from the previous regime, is now behind them, thanks to the efforts of the security forces and the public. This announcement highlights ongoing tensions within the Syrian government and the challenges posed by remnants of the former regime.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared that Turkey will continue to prioritize justice, peace, and diplomacy amidst escalating tensions and emerging crises in the region. Speaking after a Cabinet meeting in Ankara on April 15, 2025, Erdogan emphasized Turkey's commitment to these values as a response to the ongoing challenges.

Erdogan also addressed the situation in Syria, stating that Turkey will stand against any attempts to prevent the country from achieving lasting peace and stability. He warned that those who hinder Syria's progress will face opposition from both the Syrian government and Turkey. Erdogan reiterated Turkey's stance against the division of Syria, particularly through what he described as a 'terror corridor' since the events of 8 December 2024.

Read more

The Syrian Ministry of Interior announced the arrest of Salem Dagestani, the former head of the investigation branch of the Air Force Intelligence Directorate, who is implicated in war crimes. Dagestani previously held key positions, including head of the investigation department at Sednaya Prison and head of the security committee in Eastern Ghouta. The ministry's announcement follows a restructuring plan aimed at enhancing security operations, which includes appointing a single official in each governorate to oversee both police and security functions. Minister Anas Khattab also reported that a coup plot involving former regime officers has been thwarted.

Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat embarked on a two-day official visit to Damascus, Syria, beginning April 16, 2025, marking the highest-profile visit by a Turkish economic official since the ouster of Bashar Assad. The visit aims to discuss and enhance bilateral cooperation on trade, transport, investment, energy, and reconstruction efforts in Syria. Bolat's delegation includes representatives from various Turkish ministries such as transport, economic institutions, civil society, chambers of commerce and industry, and the contractors' union. During the visit, Bolat met with Syrian Economy and Industry Minister Nidal al-Shaar, Transport Minister Yarub Suleiman Badr, Finance Minister Mohammed Yasser Barnia, and the Director of Land and Sea Ports Administration, Kutayba Ahmed Bedevi. The discussions focused on building a new, stable Syria through cooperation in industry, trade, and energy. Bolat emphasized Turkey's readiness to coordinate fully with Syria, describing the relationship as "two states, one nation." Concurrently, the Syrian government held meetings with a World Bank delegation to explore technical and economic cooperation for the upcoming phase of Syria's recovery. Syrian Economy Minister Nidal al-Shaar described the visit as the beginning of a productive partnership between the Syrian and Turkish peoples. The visit also involved Turkish business leaders and aimed to contribute to the reconstruction of war-torn Syria.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam made his first official visit to Damascus on April 15, 2025, where he met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. This visit marked the first trip by a senior Lebanese official to Syria since the formation of Lebanon's new government, signaling a potential reset in the historically strained relations between the two countries. Following this, high-level reciprocal visits have been noted between Syria and Qatar, indicating a new phase in their bilateral relations. Meanwhile, a bipartisan U.S. Congressional delegation is preparing to visit Syria for the first time since 2017, amidst a change in Syrian leadership with Bashar al-Assad no longer in power and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) now controlling significant areas. Additionally, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is scheduled to visit Damascus on April 18, 2025, to meet with President Ahmad al-Sharaa. On the same day, Jordan's Foreign Minister Safadi is also visiting Damascus to hold talks with President al-Sharaa and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani. These visits reflect a broader diplomatic engagement with Syria by regional and international actors after years of isolation.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is planning to visit Syria, as confirmed by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Preparations are underway to determine the timing and conditions for the visit, following the December 8 revolution that led to the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime.

The announcement was made during the 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum, held from April 11-13, 2025, under the theme 'Reclaiming Diplomacy in a Fragmented World.' The forum featured 14 meetings between Erdogan and various global leaders, including Syria's new president Ahmed al-Sharaa, and addressed topics such as regional stability and cooperation.

Erdogan's visit would mark the first by a Turkish president to Syria since Assad's regime was overthrown. Turkey has since supported Syria's new administration, reopened its embassy in Damascus, and strengthened economic and diplomatic ties with the country.

Since the fall of the former regime in Syria, the coastal region, including Tartous, Latakia, Homs, and Hama, has experienced sectarian violence targeting the Alawite minority. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), these attacks have resulted in the deaths of 2,161 people from the Alawite community. A wave of revenge attacks a month ago killed hundreds of Alawite civilians, and despite promises from the interim government, the minority continues to face targeted violence and threats, particularly in areas such as Hmeimem where thousands remain displaced due to fears of militant groups affiliated with the faction led by Jolani. Since early April, dozens more Alawites have been killed in smaller, scattered attacks. The ongoing sectarian violence has left the Alawite community living in fear, with reports describing continued massacres and campaigns of disinformation aimed at forcing them to leave their homes.

UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen has called for a unified international approach to support Syria's stability, emphasizing the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty and the 1974 disengagement agreement with Israel. This statement follows a visit by UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo, who discussed a comprehensive political transition led by Syria that meets the aspirations of its people. Additionally, the Deputy UN Envoy to Syria reported a positive meeting with the Syrian investigation committee, appreciating its approach regarding recent events in the coastal region.

European Union foreign policy chief, Kaia Kalas, announced that the EU will conduct an evaluation regarding the potential easing of sanctions on Syria. This discussion is scheduled to take place today, with Kalas noting that the Syrian authorities have not made the necessary progress required for any changes to the current sanctions regime. The EU foreign ministers have reportedly agreed on a roadmap to temporarily ease sanctions affecting the energy, transportation, and banking sectors. However, Kalas emphasized that significant advancements from the new Syrian leadership are still lacking, and the political future of the country remains fragile. Additionally, the United Nations has been actively engaging with Syrian officials regarding political transitions and humanitarian responses, indicating ongoing international interest in the situation in Syria.

An explosion of unexploded ordnance in the town of Tseel, located in western rural Daraa, Syria, resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals, including four children, and injured three others. The incident occurred on April 15, when the explosive detonated as children were playing in an open area. Local health authorities confirmed the fatalities and injuries, urging residents to report any suspicious objects to ensure safety. The situation highlights ongoing dangers from remnants of war in the region.

Syria's Ambassador to Moscow, Bashar Jaafari, has reportedly requested political asylum in Russia, according to the Russian state news agency TASS. The request comes after Jaafari was recalled to Damascus last week as part of a reorganization of the diplomatic corps following the fall of the Assad regime. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously granted asylum to former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad after his ousting.

Read more

Recent developments indicate that Syria is on track to recognize Israel by the end of 2026. Akram Hassoun, a former member of the Knesset, confirmed that Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa met with Israeli officials in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Reports suggest that Al Jolani, the leader of the Syrian Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, is also involved in discussions with Israeli officials. A British diplomatic source stated that Al Jolani assured the UK of Syria's commitment to normalizing relations with Israel, which includes recognizing the state and exchanging ambassadors. This meeting in Abu Dhabi marks a significant step in the evolving relationship between Syria and Israel, with implications for broader regional dynamics.

On April 13, 2025, the Eighth Brigade, a prominent armed group in Daraa province, Syria, officially announced its disbandment and the integration of its members into the Syrian Ministry of Defense. This decision follows a request from the United Arab Emirates, which has been actively trying to influence the Syrian landscape. The Eighth Brigade has been operational in the region since 2018 and played a role in the offensive that concluded the Syrian civil war. The announcement of its dissolution was unexpected, especially after the group had previously rejected a proposal to join the Ministry of Defense in January 2025. Analysts suggest that this move may reflect changing dynamics in the region, particularly concerning relations with Russia and the UAE.

Syria's Minister of Finance is engaging with a delegation from the World Bank to enhance financial relations and improve the operations of Syrian banks. This meeting is part of a broader effort as Syrian ministers, including the central bank chief, prepare to attend the upcoming International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank spring meetings in Washington. The discussions are aimed at updating the financial and banking sector in Syria, with a focus on technical and economic cooperation for the upcoming phase. The Syrian Foreign Ministry has also indicated that the World Bank is discussing tools to support the Syrian economy.