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On September 9, 2025, Israel conducted a rare airstrike in Doha targeting senior Hamas political leaders amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations. The attack, condemned by Qatar and multiple Gulf states, disrupted peace talks and raised regional tensions. Israel claimed the strike was a precise operation against those responsible for the October 2023 attacks on Israel.
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Israel launched a surprise airstrike in Qatar targeting Hamas leaders, killing at least one senior official and drawing regional condemnation. The attack marks a significant escalation amid ongoing conflict, with Israel asserting independence and the US reportedly giving a green light. Qatar and Arab nations condemned the strike as a violation of international law.
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Israel conducted a precise airstrike in Doha, Qatar, targeting senior Hamas figures, including Khalil al-Hayya and Zaher Jabarin. Despite initial claims of killing top leadership, Hamas reports indicate some leaders survived. The attack occurred amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations and has heightened tensions in the region.
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Russia and Syria are preparing for the Syrian president's October visit to Moscow for the Russian-Arab summit. Discussions include strengthening bilateral ties, regional security, and potential Russian mediation with Israel. Russia also considers aid and energy sector reconstruction, amid ongoing regional tensions and military concerns.
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Eleven months after the fall of Bashar Assad, reports of abductions and disappearances continue in Syria. The UN documents at least 97 cases since January, amid ongoing violence and security challenges, with many families still unaware of their loved ones' fates.
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US military officials met Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus to discuss cooperation against ISIS and regional stability. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia announced a $1.65 million barrel crude supply to support Syria's economic recovery, amid ongoing reconstruction efforts and slow ground progress post-civil war.
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Syrian authorities, with cooperation from intelligence units, arrested a Hezbollah-affiliated terrorist cell in the Damascus countryside. The cell was trained in Lebanon and planned attacks inside Syria, seizing weapons including rockets and anti-tank missiles. The case is now before the judiciary, amid ongoing regional tensions.
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A traveler compares overnight train travel, city accommodation, and private jet flights across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The stories highlight the costs, comfort, and challenges of different travel modes, revealing insights into travel planning and the realities of various travel environments today.
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Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestine activist and US permanent resident, faces deportation after Louisiana immigration judge ruled he committed fraud on his green card application by omitting his affiliations with UNRWA and campus activism. Khalil is appealing, citing retaliation and risks if returned to Algeria or Syria. His case highlights tensions over free speech and immigration enforcement.
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Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has traveled to New York to address the UN General Assembly, marking the first such visit since 1967. His trip signals a move toward normalization amid ongoing internal and regional tensions, including efforts to improve US and Israeli relations and upcoming elections. Significant diplomatic developments are underway.
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Recent clashes in northern Syria have resulted in civilian casualties amid ongoing tensions between the Syrian government, Kurdish-led forces, and pro-Turkey factions. Reports indicate shelling and drone strikes targeting SDF positions, with civilians caught in the crossfire. The situation reflects unresolved political disputes and military confrontations along front lines.
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Hezbollah's deputy leader Naim Qassem urged Saudi Arabia to open a new page, emphasizing that the group's weapons are solely aimed at Israel. He highlighted regional tensions following recent Israeli strikes and called for Lebanese unity and dialogue with Riyadh, amid ongoing conflicts and US-backed pressures.
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On October 8, 2025, Turkish President Erdogan confirmed that US President Trump indicated the Halkbank sanctions issue is resolved, following their September 25 White House meeting. The leaders discussed lifting CAATSA sanctions and Turkey's return to the F-35 program, suspended since 2019 over Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missiles. Erdogan emphasized strengthening US-Turkey ties amid regional tensions.
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Guinea's recent referendum, backed by 89.38% of voters, approved a new constitution extending presidential terms and creating a Senate. The vote, amid allegations of ballot pre-marking and suppression, is part of Guinea's transition from military to civilian rule. Critics question its legitimacy and transparency.
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Since Bashar al-Assad's ousting in December 2024, Syria has entered a new phase under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former Islamist militant leader. Sharaa has engaged internationally, including historic visits to the UN and the US, calling for sanctions relief and regional stability. One million refugees have returned amid ongoing sectarian violence and unresolved war crimes prosecutions. Russia maintains military ties, while Syria seeks to redefine its global relations.
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In Seychelles' presidential race, incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan and opposition candidate Patrick Herminie are separated by less than 3%, with most votes counted. A runoff is likely, as no candidate has surpassed 50%. Key issues include the drug crisis, environmental concerns, and sovereignty disputes. The election results remain pending.
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A year after Israel killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and his successor, the group remains weakened but is actively regrouping. Despite heavy losses and international pressure to disarm, Hezbollah vows to maintain its weapons and resist Israeli threats, signaling ongoing tensions in Lebanon and the region.
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On October 7, 2025, Syria's interim government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) agreed to a ceasefire after violent clashes in Aleppo. This violence underscored stalled integration efforts following a March deal to unify forces and transfer key assets to Damascus. Meanwhile, Syria held its first parliamentary election since Assad's ouster, marked by indirect voting, exclusion of Kurdish and Druze regions, and criticism over inclusivity and legitimacy.
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Syrian authorities conducted indirect parliamentary elections, with low female and minority representation. The process, delayed and limited by war and control issues, aims to shape a new legislative body. Critics question the inclusivity and democratic legitimacy of the vote, which is overseen by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
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Recent negotiations between the Syrian government and Kurdish-led forces have resulted in an agreement to integrate the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the national army. The talks, which stalled earlier, now focus on mechanisms for merging military and civil institutions amid ongoing regional tensions and clashes in northeast Syria. The process aims to stabilize the region and address longstanding disputes over autonomy and decentralization.
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A Dutch delegation arrived in Syria to discuss refugee repatriation, while the UN works to coordinate efforts to locate missing persons. Recent developments include a voluntary return flight from Libya and ongoing negotiations with Syrian authorities. The focus remains on addressing displacement and unresolved disappearances since Assad's ouster.
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The planned Russia-Arab summit scheduled for October 15 in Moscow has been postponed due to insufficient confirmations from regional leaders. Only Syria and the Arab League confirmed attendance, while key powers like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE did not. Putin cited concerns over U.S. Gaza negotiations influencing Arab participation.
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Syria and Lebanon are making progress on judicial and security cooperation, including discussions on detainees, border security, and missing persons. High-level visits signal a shift towards improved relations after years of tension, with ongoing efforts to address key issues and rebuild trust between the two neighbors.
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Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon have killed at least two people, including a Hezbollah logistics chief, and targeted infrastructure linked to the group. Despite a ceasefire, Israel continues strikes claiming they prevent Hezbollah's military rebuilding. Lebanon condemns these actions as violations of the ceasefire agreement.
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Iran's support for its regional allies has been disrupted by recent Israeli strikes and internal challenges. While Tehran claims to support the Gaza ceasefire, analysts warn it faces economic and military setbacks, and its future actions remain unpredictable amid regional instability. Today's date: Sun, 12 Oct 2025 09:58:17 +0100.
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Leaders gathered in Egypt for a Gaza ceasefire summit, but Israel's Netanyahu did not attend due to regional opposition and diplomatic tensions. Turkey actively worked to block his participation, citing regional support and diplomatic efforts. The summit aims to support Gaza's ceasefire, excluding Israel and Hamas.
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On October 15-16, 2025, Syrian interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa visited Moscow to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. The talks focused on redefining bilateral relations, Russia's military bases in Syria, economic cooperation, and the extradition of ousted leader Bashar al-Assad, who fled to Russia after being toppled in December 2024. Both sides expressed pragmatic intent amid complex historical ties.
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Multiple attacks in eastern Syria target Syrian military personnel near oil facilities. The latest incident, involving an explosion on a highway, resulted in five deaths and 13 injuries. No group has claimed responsibility, but ISIS sleeper cells are suspected. The region remains tense amid ongoing clashes between government forces and Kurdish-led SDF.
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After over a decade of civil war, Syria's new authorities face a reconstruction bill estimated at $216 billion. The damage includes infrastructure, housing, and public services, with ongoing challenges like unexploded ordnance and strained infrastructure due to returning refugees. International support is seen as crucial for stability.
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The UK has officially removed Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from its list of proscribed terrorist organizations, following the US decision in July. This move aims to facilitate closer engagement with the Syrian government amid ongoing efforts to stabilize the region and address chemical weapons concerns. The change reflects shifting diplomatic strategies in Syria.
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Syria plans to hold public trials for regime remnants and violations, while ongoing clashes involve Kurdish forces, foreign fighters, and unrest in Suweida. Recent security operations target militants and former regime figures amid fragile stability efforts. Today's updates highlight continued instability and government efforts for accountability.
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On October 25, 2025, Catherine Connolly, a left-wing independent backed by Sinn Féin and other parties, won Ireland's largely ceremonial presidency with 63% of the vote, defeating center-right Heather Humphreys. Connolly's outspoken views on Gaza, EU militarization, and Irish neutrality signal potential tensions with the government amid record spoiled ballots and low turnout.
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Saudi Arabia is actively engaging in Syria's reconstruction, with plans to attract billions of dollars in investment. Syrian officials highlight progress in economic recovery, while regional and US sanctions remain a challenge. The focus is on rebuilding infrastructure and fostering regional stability.
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On November 10, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will make a historic first official visit to Washington. He aims to join the US-led coalition against ISIS, discuss lifting sanctions, and explore Syria's reconstruction. This follows his landmark UN address and a prior meeting with President Trump in May, marking Syria's shift after Assad's ouster.
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Since the ceasefire in late October 2023, residents of Nahal Oz have returned amid ongoing fears of future violence. The area remains tense, with damage from rocket attacks and memories of Hamas-led violence, reflecting a fragile peace and deep uncertainty about the future.
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On November 10, 2025, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will meet U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, marking the first Syrian presidential visit since 1946. This follows the lifting of U.N. and U.S. sanctions on al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab, as Syria seeks to join the U.S.-led coalition against Islamic State and rebuild after years of civil war.
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Recent reports indicate the US is preparing to establish a military base in Damascus to support a potential security agreement between Syria and Israel. Syrian President Sharaa seeks a security deal with Israeli troop withdrawal, amid ongoing negotiations and regional tensions. Sharaa's international legitimacy is rising, complicating Israel's strategic calculus.
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As of November 11, 2025, the US-led Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) has fully assumed primary control over humanitarian aid into Gaza, sidelining Israel's previous dominant role. The CMCC, involving over 40 countries, aims to improve aid flow amid ongoing restrictions and security concerns. Meanwhile, Cornell University agreed to a $60 million settlement with the US government to restore federal funding amid investigations into alleged civil rights violations, affirming academic freedom but maintaining diversity programs.
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On November 10, 2025, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited the White House, the first Syrian leader to do so since independence. The meeting with President Donald Trump focused on lifting sanctions, Syria’s integration into a US-led coalition against ISIS, and a potential security pact involving Israel. The US suspended Caesar Act sanctions for six months, signaling a shift in regional alliances and Syria’s international rehabilitation.
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On Monday, six marble statues were stolen from the National Museum of Damascus, which had reopened in January after Syria's 14-year civil war and the fall of Assad's regime. The theft occurred overnight in the classical department, home to Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine artifacts. Authorities have launched an investigation, detaining and questioning staff, while the museum remains closed amid security concerns.
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Austria has charged two former Syrian officials, including Brig. Gen. Khaled al-Halabi, with war crimes related to torture and repression during the Syrian uprising. Halabi, a double agent for Mossad, has been in Austrian custody since December 2024. The case highlights ongoing efforts to hold Syrian regime figures accountable in Europe.
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Recent visits by Syrian officials to the US and UK mark a shift in diplomatic relations, with Syria seeking recognition and support amid ongoing negotiations. The US has eased sanctions, and Syria aims to strengthen its regional position, including potential US military and diplomatic arrangements.
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A rocket attack in Damascus’s upscale Mazzeh 86 neighborhood injured one woman and caused damage. The rockets, launched from within the city, suggest a targeted operation possibly aimed at the Presidential Palace. Authorities are investigating, with no group claiming responsibility. The incident marks a rare breach of security in the capital.
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Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, once a US-designated terrorist, has visited Washington, marking a historic shift. He met with Trump, discussed anti-ISIS cooperation, sanctions relief, and regional stability. Syria's entry into the US-led coalition signals a major change in US-Syria relations amid ongoing regional tensions.
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As of November 24, 2025, Iran is pushing for a resumption of stalled nuclear negotiations with the U.S., using Saudi Arabia as a mediator amid fears of renewed Israeli strikes and economic strain. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is visiting France to urge compliance with IAEA obligations, while Tehran denies undeclared enrichment and insists on its right to peaceful nuclear energy.
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The UN Security Council approved a resolution supporting President Trump's Gaza peace plan, which envisions a transitional administration and international stabilisation force in Gaza. The vote was 13-0 with Russia and China abstaining. Israel opposes the plan, citing security concerns and territorial integrity, while regional and international actors react variably.
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A UN Security Council delegation visited Damascus ahead of the anniversary of Assad's fall, meeting with officials and civil society to discuss political transition, justice, and security. The visit underscores ongoing efforts to reintegrate Syria into the international community amid recent sectarian tensions and violence.
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Syrian officials, including Foreign Minister al-Shaibani, met with Chinese counterparts to strengthen cooperation on security, economic reconstruction, and political issues. Discussions included border security, Uyghur fighters, and Syria’s sovereignty. The visits follow Syria’s efforts to rebuild international relations after years of conflict and international isolation.
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The first public trial of suspects linked to March's sectarian violence in Syria has started in Aleppo. The proceedings involve accused supporters of Bashar al-Assad and government forces, with charges including murder and incitement to civil war. The trial aims to address serious violations and promote accountability.
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Over the past week, Israel has increased its military presence in southern Syria, seizing new territory and establishing multiple military posts. Israeli officials emphasize security and protection of Druze communities, while Syria condemns these actions as violations of sovereignty. Tensions remain high amid stalled peace talks and ongoing incursions.