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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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Syria's ongoing conflict involves sectarian clashes, regional interventions, and diplomatic efforts. Turkey, Israel, Jordan, and the US are engaged in supporting or opposing various factions, with violence persisting in areas like Sweida and Aleppo. Talks aim to stabilize the country, but regional tensions remain high.
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Since June's 12-day war, Israel targeted Iran's nuclear and military sites, killing senior commanders and scientists. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Israel. Iran faces internal dissent amid economic hardship and water shortages. Western powers consider reimposing sanctions, risking renewed conflict. Iran warns of further war, while Israel signals readiness for more strikes. Regional tensions and espionage arrests continue.
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Syria's political transition faces challenges as minority groups demand decentralization and fair representation. Recent violence and calls for a federal system highlight tensions following the fall of Assad, with minority leaders advocating for protections amid ongoing conflict and violence.
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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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Lebanese officials, including President Aoun, oppose US-backed plans to disarm Hezbollah, citing sovereignty concerns. Iran's top security official Ali Larijani visited Beirut, reaffirming support for Hezbollah and criticizing foreign interference amid ongoing regional conflicts and recent Lebanese government moves to dismantle armed groups.
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Turkish and Syrian officials warn Israel and Kurdish fighters against destabilizing Syria. They cite recent violence, Israeli airstrikes, and foreign interventions as threats to regional stability. Turkey seeks military cooperation with Syria amid ongoing tensions and external pressures.
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Recent UN reports detail widespread and systematic violence against civilians in Syria's Alawite communities, with over 1,400 killed. The violence, beginning in March, involved extrajudicial killings, torture, looting, and sectarian targeting by pro-Assad factions, raising concerns about war crimes and accountability amid ongoing sectarian tensions.
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Turkey and Syria have formalized military cooperation through a memorandum of understanding, aiming to enhance training, equipment procurement, and strategic coordination. The agreement follows ongoing negotiations and reflects Turkey's support for Syria's interim government amid regional tensions and unresolved conflicts.
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The UN Security Council is set to end the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission in Lebanon by the end of 2026, amid ongoing Israeli strikes, Hezbollah disarmament debates, and regional instability. The move reflects US and Israeli pressure, while European nations urge caution to prevent a security vacuum.
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Lebanese security forces, with Iraqi intelligence, destroyed a large Captagon factory in the Bekaa Valley. The operation follows increased efforts to combat drug trafficking after the fall of Bashar al-Assad, with Syria and Lebanon being major producers of Captagon, which has fueled regional instability.
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Recent US military raids in northern Syria have resulted in the detention of an Iraqi ISIS leader and the killing of another senior ISIS figure. These operations follow ongoing efforts to weaken ISIS remnants amid regional instability and violence. The latest events occurred between August 20 and 27, 2025.
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On September 6, 2025, Iran executed Mehran Bahramian, convicted of killing a security officer during the 2022 protests sparked by Mahsa Amini's death. This marks the 12th known execution linked to the unrest. Human rights groups condemn the use of forced confessions and secret trials. Meanwhile, US pressure mounts on Iraq to rein in Iranian-backed militias amid regional tensions.
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Multiple Israeli drone strikes in southern Damascus and Quneitra have killed at least 14 Syrian soldiers and wounded several others. The strikes targeted military sites linked to Assad's forces amid ongoing tensions and US-mediated talks. Israel has not officially commented on the recent operations.
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Since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in December, Israel has intensified military operations in Syria, including airstrikes and ground raids near Damascus and the Golan Heights. Recent actions involve airborne landings, targeted strikes on military sites, and detention of suspects, amid ongoing US-mediated talks and regional tensions.
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Since the ceasefire in November 2024, Israel has conducted multiple strikes targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon, despite ongoing efforts by Lebanon's army to disarm the group. Recent incidents include drone falls, casualties among Lebanese soldiers, and Israeli strikes on Hezbollah sites, escalating regional tensions.
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As of early September 2025, the US administration is considering a plan to administer Gaza as a trusteeship for at least 10 years, temporarily relocating its 2 million residents. The proposal, known as the GREAT Trust, aims to rebuild Gaza into a tourism and tech hub, offering landowners digital tokens for property rights and financial incentives for relocation. The plan faces strong opposition from Palestinians and regional actors.
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The International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) passed a resolution accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, sparking controversy. Critics question the process, membership transparency, and legal basis, while supporters cite widespread reports of Israeli actions. The debate highlights tensions over legal definitions and political bias in international law.
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Rabbi Blau, a prominent Modern Orthodox figure, publicly criticized Israel's response to Gaza's humanitarian crisis, emphasizing Jewish values and condemning extremist voices. His open letter, signed by 80 Orthodox rabbis, sparked debate within the Jewish community about Israel's policies and moral responsibilities amid the Gaza conflict.
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Environmental samples taken by the IAEA at sites in Syria reveal natural uranium particles, suggesting past nuclear activity. Syria denies knowledge of such activities, but the agency urges cooperation amid ongoing investigations into a suspected covert reactor linked to North Korea. The findings follow renewed access after regime change.
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In 2012, Syrian regime forces attacked a press centre in Homs, killing Marie Colvin and Remi Ochlik. Recent investigations have led to arrest warrants against Bashar al-Assad and key officials for war crimes and targeted killings of foreign journalists. The case highlights ongoing accountability efforts for Syria's civil war.
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Saudi Arabia's KSRelief announced a new aid package for Syria, including rubble clearance, infrastructure rebuilding, and social services. The initiative aims to support post-war recovery, with agreements signed in Damascus involving Syrian and Gulf officials. The aid reflects ongoing Gulf backing for Syria's reconstruction efforts.
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Israel launched new airstrikes in Syria targeting military sites near Homs and Latakia, prompting Syrian condemnation. The strikes follow a pattern of frequent attacks since the fall of Assad, amid ongoing diplomatic talks between Israel and Syria. No casualties reported, but regional tensions rise.
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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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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 announced a ceasefire between the government and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) after violent clashes in Aleppo. The ceasefire follows stalled integration talks under a March agreement. Meanwhile, Syria held indirect parliamentary elections excluding Kurdish and Druze regions, raising concerns over inclusivity amid ongoing violence and regional divisions.
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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.