Mediterranean port city of Syria; major regional hub; provincial capital
The Hungarian Parliament confirms Andr?s Baka as transitional president, as the ruling party pursues a sweeping constitutional overhaul that tightens control over media and judiciary. The move comes after Tisza-led reforms dismantle Orbán-era institutions and set the stage for a new constitutional order.
Syria has signed an agreement with Russia that transfers civilian management of Hmeimim airport and Tartus’ commercial berth to Damascus and converts military areas at both sites into joint Russian–Syrian training centres. The memorandum sets a three‑month deadline for the transition and preserves Russian access for transit and operations.
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.
Oil prices have fallen after data showed Asia is set to import its highest monthly crude volume since the US–Iran war began, while traders continue to monitor UN‑level diplomacy and regional tensions. Brent has slipped near $102 a barrel and U.S. crude is trading in the low $90s as markets weigh rising Asian flows against Middle East risks.
Iran has presented a proposal at the UN sidelines to accelerate a potential deal, aiming to benefit the U.S. ahead of the midterms. Negotiations remain uncertain as Tehran maintains conditions, including ending the naval blockade and freeing assets. Disputes and skepticism persist about how much room for compromise exists within Iran and the U.S.
Mediators are pushing a framework to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ease sanctions. Iran has proposed a seven-day timeline tied to U.S. concessions, while the United States has signaled cautious engagement amid ongoing negotiations through Qatar and other mediators.
Smuggling attempts along the Lebanon-Syria border have intensified, with recent seizures of explosives and firearms reported by Lebanese and Syrian authorities. The incidents highlight ongoing cross-border trafficking across a 330-375 km frontier, where authorities are tightening controls after renewed seizures this year.
A military court in Aleppo has sentenced several defendants connected to the March 2025 coastal violence to death, long prison terms or acquittals. The rulings address charges of inciting civil war, sectarian fighting and attacks on government forces, with further verdicts in September and ongoing trials highlighting accountability efforts.
Arab News and Al Jazeera report a thaw in Turkish, Iraqi and Syrian relations. Erdogan plans a Syria visit; Iraq-Syria dialogue focuses on security, energy and trade. Damascus and Baghdad are reviving energy links and coordinating on regional stability.