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Heavy rains caused flash floods in Safi, Morocco, killing at least 37 people, injuring 32, and flooding dozens of homes and businesses. Authorities warn of more rain, amid ongoing drought and climate change impacts that increase flood risks.
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A ceasefire between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led SDF largely holds, despite mutual accusations of violations. Recent weeks saw Syrian government forces seize key territories, including oil fields and prisons, as negotiations for Kurdish integration into the state continue. Tensions and military actions persist as the situation remains fluid.
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Recent clashes near al-Aktan prison in Syria have intensified as government forces and the SDF withdraw from key territories. Over 134,000 displaced, with US transferring ISIS detainees to Iraq. EU warns of detainee breakouts, raising security concerns amid ongoing fighting and ceasefire negotiations. Thu, 29 Jan 2026 06:33:00 +0000
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On February 3, 2026, Syria's interim government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) began implementing a historic agreement reached on January 30 to integrate Kurdish forces and institutions into the Syrian state. This follows a government offensive reclaiming large Kurdish-held territories since early January. The deal includes forming a military division with SDF brigades, merging Kurdish civil bodies into state institutions, and deploying government forces to key northeastern cities, aiming to unify Syria and avoid further conflict.
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Following Kurdish forces' withdrawal, Syrian government troops entered al-Hol camp in northeast Syria, which houses thousands of women, children, and suspected militants linked to ISIS. The move follows clashes and a breakdown in a ceasefire, raising concerns over security and stability in the region.
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Recent military advances by Syrian government forces have significantly diminished Kurdish-led SDF territory in northeastern Syria. A ceasefire and control transfer of key prisons suggest a shift towards Syrian state dominance, ending years of Kurdish autonomy efforts amid ongoing conflict and US disengagement.
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As of February 13, 2026, Iraq has received over 5,000 Islamic State (IS) detainees transferred from Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) prisons in northeast Syria. The transfers, coordinated by the US-led coalition, aim to prevent IS prisoners from escaping amid Syrian government advances. Iraq is investigating and prosecuting detainees under its laws, while humanitarian concerns persist in camps holding IS families.
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Recent developments in Syria include the relocation of residents from Al-Hol camp following its capture by Syrian forces, ongoing threats from ISIL-linked groups targeting government officials, and the transfer of IS detainees to Iraq. These events highlight ongoing instability and security challenges in the region.
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On February 16-17, 2026, 34 Australians, including women and children linked to Islamic State, attempted to return from Syria's Al Roj camp to Australia but were turned back by Syrian authorities due to procedural issues. Australian PM Albanese reaffirmed the government's refusal to assist or repatriate them, emphasizing legal consequences for any who return having committed crimes.
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Following the Syrian military's takeover of al-Hol camp in January, over 138 breaches were found along its perimeter, leading to mass escapes. The camp, housing thousands of IS families, is now under Syrian control, raising security concerns amid ongoing instability and uncertain whereabouts of many residents.