Syrian city at the heart of governance, conflict and culture
Global stocks have rallied this month after officials reported progress in talks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and a string of strong corporate earnings has bolstered investor sentiment. Treasuries and oil prices have fallen as traders pare back expectations for near-term Fed hikes; strategists warn valuations and one-off earnings boosts limit further upside.
Syria has raised diesel and petrol prices by up to 40% amid global energy pressures and a maintenance overhaul at the Baniyas refinery. The government says the move is temporary and aims to secure supplies, while protests have erupted in multiple regions. Authorities plan to restart small refineries to meet demand and reduce imports.
Authorities have detained nine pilots in Latakia after investigations tied to airstrikes across Syria, including Eastern Ghouta, Aleppo, Deir Ezzor and Hama. They are accused of combat sorties, targeting civilians and facilities, and transporting former regime officers. The case forms part of a broader accountability push following the war’s upheavals.
Authorities have detained Ali Kayali and several other figures linked to the Bashar al-Assad regime’s forces and militias over alleged war crimes in 2013. The arrests come as Syria intensifies accountability efforts under the new regime authorities.
Heavy rains have flooded eastern Syria, leaving bridges out of service and cutting roads. Emergency teams have evacuated hundreds of families from displacement camps and rescued multiple people from floodwaters. Schools have been closed as authorities warn rainfall may continue.