A truly pluralistic and confederal Syria, wherein each people takes its place with its own color in a confederal unity, offers a hopeful path. It can bring an end to the sectarian strife so often fueled and weaponized by those powers who see in Syria only pawns for their geopolitical games and resources to plunder. It remains to be seen if al Jolani's new regime will recognize the truth of this, or will sacrifice the Syrian peoples to foreign interests in order to secure his power.
Revolutionary greetings! 🖤
Revolutionary greetings! 🖤
Weekly Highlights 28.04.25 - 04.05.25
📌 Clashes in Druze regions
After an audio of a Druze sheikh insulting prophet Mohammed spread in social networks, extremist Sunni groups attacked checkpoints on Druze areas, targeting Druze self-defense forces as well as checkpoint of the General Security Services (GSS) of the Ministry of Defense. The audio was confirmed fake, but clashes escalated with dozens of dead and many injured. Druze leaders condemned the attacks, some blaming the transitional government and comparing it with the massacres in coastal areas.
Among those killed in clashes there is a leading figure of "Men of dignity", the biggest local Druze force, currently in negotiations with the provisional government to integrate forces in the new Syrian army. Several fighters of the GSS were also killed, as more forces were deployed in the region to deter further attacks against Druze population. Delegates of the provisional government held meetings with Druze leaders to deescalate the situation.
📌 Israeli bombing campaign
With the tensions surrounding the clashes on Druze regions, Israel bombed some positions where clashes were taking place. They also launched a wider bombing campaign targeting military positions of the GSS. One of the bombs was dropped a few meters away of the presidential Palace in Damascus. Israel ministery of Defense declared that the bombing was a warning to stop the attacks against Druze population, announcing plans for further attacks and expansion of their military campaign if the provisional government doesn't protect minorities. Many military positions around Syria were targeted, destroying military infrastructure and injuring military personnel. Some Druze civilians were also killed in one of the bombings of Israel. Many governments strongly condemned the attacks of Israel, including UN delegates, denouncing how Israel interference is threatening the stability of Syria.
📌 Stalling of the negotiations with NES
No new steps were taken in the negotiations after the agreements of March 10 were signed by Mazlum Abdi and Ahmed al-Shara. The damascus government criticized the conference of Kurdish national unity, accusing it of an effort to create division and separatism. Calls of the DAANES for a federal Syria are not being listened to by the central government, that sees the efforts to sustain the self-government structures as a threat to their model of centralized government. GSS forces have been deploying in the suroundings of Tishreen dam, even if no clashes are taking place there since mid April. SDF is also increasing security in the region, building up tensions that can spark future conflicts.
📌 ISIS leader captured in Deir Ezzor
SDF captured a senior leader in the Islamic State (ISIS) in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor, eastern Syria. The continued work to monitor and target high rank ISIS insurgents, with support of the international coalition. The arrested leader served as the head of an ISIS cell focused on extorting money from civilians. A large cache of weapons and ammunition was also captured during the operation.
📌 Turkey building gas pipe in Idlib
The ministeries of energy of Syria and Turkey announced new agreements to provide energy to Syria. A new gas pipe is being build in Idlib, with promises to supply up to 6 million cubic liters of gas to power plans in Syria, with promises of a second pipe line also being build. A general framework agreement on energy cooperation between Syria and Turkey is expected to be signed soon.
📌 Clashes in Druze regions
After an audio of a Druze sheikh insulting prophet Mohammed spread in social networks, extremist Sunni groups attacked checkpoints on Druze areas, targeting Druze self-defense forces as well as checkpoint of the General Security Services (GSS) of the Ministry of Defense. The audio was confirmed fake, but clashes escalated with dozens of dead and many injured. Druze leaders condemned the attacks, some blaming the transitional government and comparing it with the massacres in coastal areas.
Among those killed in clashes there is a leading figure of "Men of dignity", the biggest local Druze force, currently in negotiations with the provisional government to integrate forces in the new Syrian army. Several fighters of the GSS were also killed, as more forces were deployed in the region to deter further attacks against Druze population. Delegates of the provisional government held meetings with Druze leaders to deescalate the situation.
📌 Israeli bombing campaign
With the tensions surrounding the clashes on Druze regions, Israel bombed some positions where clashes were taking place. They also launched a wider bombing campaign targeting military positions of the GSS. One of the bombs was dropped a few meters away of the presidential Palace in Damascus. Israel ministery of Defense declared that the bombing was a warning to stop the attacks against Druze population, announcing plans for further attacks and expansion of their military campaign if the provisional government doesn't protect minorities. Many military positions around Syria were targeted, destroying military infrastructure and injuring military personnel. Some Druze civilians were also killed in one of the bombings of Israel. Many governments strongly condemned the attacks of Israel, including UN delegates, denouncing how Israel interference is threatening the stability of Syria.
📌 Stalling of the negotiations with NES
No new steps were taken in the negotiations after the agreements of March 10 were signed by Mazlum Abdi and Ahmed al-Shara. The damascus government criticized the conference of Kurdish national unity, accusing it of an effort to create division and separatism. Calls of the DAANES for a federal Syria are not being listened to by the central government, that sees the efforts to sustain the self-government structures as a threat to their model of centralized government. GSS forces have been deploying in the suroundings of Tishreen dam, even if no clashes are taking place there since mid April. SDF is also increasing security in the region, building up tensions that can spark future conflicts.
📌 ISIS leader captured in Deir Ezzor
SDF captured a senior leader in the Islamic State (ISIS) in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor, eastern Syria. The continued work to monitor and target high rank ISIS insurgents, with support of the international coalition. The arrested leader served as the head of an ISIS cell focused on extorting money from civilians. A large cache of weapons and ammunition was also captured during the operation.
📌 Turkey building gas pipe in Idlib
The ministeries of energy of Syria and Turkey announced new agreements to provide energy to Syria. A new gas pipe is being build in Idlib, with promises to supply up to 6 million cubic liters of gas to power plans in Syria, with promises of a second pipe line also being build. A general framework agreement on energy cooperation between Syria and Turkey is expected to be signed soon.
Anarchist report from NES
Weekly Highlights 28.04.25 - 04.05.25 📌 Clashes in Druze regions After an audio of a Druze sheikh insulting prophet Mohammed spread in social networks, extremist Sunni groups attacked checkpoints on Druze areas, targeting Druze self-defense forces as well…
💬 Evaluation
The clashes in Suweyda and the attacks on Druze regions, south of Damascus, are a trigger warning for all minorities in Syria. The recent massacres against Alawites are still very present for many, especially for those who oppose the power grab of al-Sharaa. Maybe because of that, the central government seems to be reacting much faster that they did in the coastal regions, with rapid deployment of security forces to prevent a spiral of violence going out of control.
Kurdish areas are closely following the events, knowing that if this can happen to the Alawites and the Druze, the Kurds may be next. These incidents may affect the negotiations about integration of SDF in the new Syrian army, because if the transitional government can't prevent attacks on minorities, autonomous means of self-defense are the only way to ensure security. The tensions are also to be noticed in Tishreen dam, where military presence is building up in both sides of the river.
The Israeli attacks are using the incidents in Druze regions as an excuse to promote their agenda, destroying military infrastructure and justifying their armed operations in Syria. Turkey is among the strongest voices against the Israeli attacks, fueling tensions between the two major competing powers for influence in the region.
For someone with a hammer, everything looks like a nail. Syria has been drowning in war for over a decade, with military force being the dominant force that shaped the present. It is not easy to escape that spiral of violence, and even after the regime has fallen, demilitarization of a conflict is a very complicated process.
Looking at the rest of the world, at how many states are racing to increase their military budgets to unseen levels, it is more clear every day that we are moving globally towards war. This is not something we wanted to see, but we also have a responsibility to understand what is happening around us and react to it. We need to be ready for what is coming, and start working today to build the means of resistance that we will need tomorrow. When the war starts, it is often too late, and only those who are ready to face the challenges that arise can bring their proposals on the table.
Revolutionary greetings! 🖤
The clashes in Suweyda and the attacks on Druze regions, south of Damascus, are a trigger warning for all minorities in Syria. The recent massacres against Alawites are still very present for many, especially for those who oppose the power grab of al-Sharaa. Maybe because of that, the central government seems to be reacting much faster that they did in the coastal regions, with rapid deployment of security forces to prevent a spiral of violence going out of control.
Kurdish areas are closely following the events, knowing that if this can happen to the Alawites and the Druze, the Kurds may be next. These incidents may affect the negotiations about integration of SDF in the new Syrian army, because if the transitional government can't prevent attacks on minorities, autonomous means of self-defense are the only way to ensure security. The tensions are also to be noticed in Tishreen dam, where military presence is building up in both sides of the river.
The Israeli attacks are using the incidents in Druze regions as an excuse to promote their agenda, destroying military infrastructure and justifying their armed operations in Syria. Turkey is among the strongest voices against the Israeli attacks, fueling tensions between the two major competing powers for influence in the region.
For someone with a hammer, everything looks like a nail. Syria has been drowning in war for over a decade, with military force being the dominant force that shaped the present. It is not easy to escape that spiral of violence, and even after the regime has fallen, demilitarization of a conflict is a very complicated process.
Looking at the rest of the world, at how many states are racing to increase their military budgets to unseen levels, it is more clear every day that we are moving globally towards war. This is not something we wanted to see, but we also have a responsibility to understand what is happening around us and react to it. We need to be ready for what is coming, and start working today to build the means of resistance that we will need tomorrow. When the war starts, it is often too late, and only those who are ready to face the challenges that arise can bring their proposals on the table.
Revolutionary greetings! 🖤
Weekly Highlights 05.05.25 - 11.05.25
📌 Visit al-Sharaa in France
Al-Sharaa visited France to have a meeting with Emmanuel Macron. News reported Macron’s proposal to strengthen the cooperation of the new government with SDF in the fight against ISIS. In the press conference after the meeting, The French president congratulated the common efforts of Syria’s transitional government and the Syrian Democratic Forces that resulted in the agreements of the 10th of March, calling it “an important stage in Syria’s history”. Macron called for a continuation of "the gradual lifting of European economic sanctions" if the new Islamist authorities stabilize the country. He added that USA should follow the same path and also should, "as long as possible", not withdraw American troops from Syria.
Demonstrations organized by Syrian migrants took place in France to denounce the meeting with the former leader of HTS. This meeting happened a week after a declaration from the foreign affairs ministry condemning the massacres perpetuated on the Druze population of Suweida. The declaration urged the Damascus transitional government to take back the control of a situation caused by "outlawed groups".
📌 New appointment in Damascus forces
On May 5th (Monday), Damascus transitional government appointed Ahmad al-Hays (Abu Hatem Shaqra) as new leader of the 86th division, responsible of security of the areas of Deir Ezzor, Raqqa and Hasaka. In 2018, he was implicated in the trafficking of Yazidi women and children and in recruiting former ISIS members. He is also responsible of the brutal murder of Hevrin Khalaf in 2019, who was the general secretary of the Future Syrian Party. Ahmad Al-Hayes is on the U.S. sanctions list accused of grave human rights abuses and links to the Islamic State (ISIS). A statement from the DAANES condemned the appointment. Kongra Star, the main structure of the women’s movement in Syria called for accountability, requiring the revocation of Al-Hays appointment and an apology to the family of Hevrin Khalef. On Thursday, the U.S. State Department strongly criticized the transitional Syrian government for this appointment in a press conference.
📌 Continuation of the tensions in Suweida
The tensions that started last week in the region of Suweida escalated. On thursday, forces connected to the military council of Suweida carried out an ambush on a car of the security forces of Damascus. The escalating violence pushed 300 students to be evacuated out from their university in emergency. Agreements are being made for Security forces of Damascus recently deployed in the area to withdraw, letting local police security forces from Suweida to take care of security. Different groups from the Druze community are calling for restraint and cooperation with Damascus government, while the military council of Suweida seems determined to fight for the defense of the Druze autonomy.
📌 Victory on Tishreen
The DAANES put an end to the rotations of civilians convoys going to Tirshin to support the SDF forces fighting. In the final statement of the last civilian convoy, victory was declared. The resistance of the dam stopped the attacks of turkish proxy forces, preventing the invasion of Kobane and further war against the DAANES territories. They remembered and thanked all those who gave their life in the defense of the dam, both civilians and military, as well as all those injured in the resistance.
Forces connected to the transitional government continue to be deployed in the surrounding villages, as SDF also continues reinforcing the region. For now, the military conflict is over, but clashes can restart in a near future if the negotiations don't reach satisfactory agreements for both sides.
📌 PKK 12th congress
Between the 5th and the 7th of may, PKK held its 12th congress. Proposals and perspectives from Abdullah Ocalan were read and discussed, together with a report of the PKK Central Committee.
📌 Visit al-Sharaa in France
Al-Sharaa visited France to have a meeting with Emmanuel Macron. News reported Macron’s proposal to strengthen the cooperation of the new government with SDF in the fight against ISIS. In the press conference after the meeting, The French president congratulated the common efforts of Syria’s transitional government and the Syrian Democratic Forces that resulted in the agreements of the 10th of March, calling it “an important stage in Syria’s history”. Macron called for a continuation of "the gradual lifting of European economic sanctions" if the new Islamist authorities stabilize the country. He added that USA should follow the same path and also should, "as long as possible", not withdraw American troops from Syria.
Demonstrations organized by Syrian migrants took place in France to denounce the meeting with the former leader of HTS. This meeting happened a week after a declaration from the foreign affairs ministry condemning the massacres perpetuated on the Druze population of Suweida. The declaration urged the Damascus transitional government to take back the control of a situation caused by "outlawed groups".
📌 New appointment in Damascus forces
On May 5th (Monday), Damascus transitional government appointed Ahmad al-Hays (Abu Hatem Shaqra) as new leader of the 86th division, responsible of security of the areas of Deir Ezzor, Raqqa and Hasaka. In 2018, he was implicated in the trafficking of Yazidi women and children and in recruiting former ISIS members. He is also responsible of the brutal murder of Hevrin Khalaf in 2019, who was the general secretary of the Future Syrian Party. Ahmad Al-Hayes is on the U.S. sanctions list accused of grave human rights abuses and links to the Islamic State (ISIS). A statement from the DAANES condemned the appointment. Kongra Star, the main structure of the women’s movement in Syria called for accountability, requiring the revocation of Al-Hays appointment and an apology to the family of Hevrin Khalef. On Thursday, the U.S. State Department strongly criticized the transitional Syrian government for this appointment in a press conference.
📌 Continuation of the tensions in Suweida
The tensions that started last week in the region of Suweida escalated. On thursday, forces connected to the military council of Suweida carried out an ambush on a car of the security forces of Damascus. The escalating violence pushed 300 students to be evacuated out from their university in emergency. Agreements are being made for Security forces of Damascus recently deployed in the area to withdraw, letting local police security forces from Suweida to take care of security. Different groups from the Druze community are calling for restraint and cooperation with Damascus government, while the military council of Suweida seems determined to fight for the defense of the Druze autonomy.
📌 Victory on Tishreen
The DAANES put an end to the rotations of civilians convoys going to Tirshin to support the SDF forces fighting. In the final statement of the last civilian convoy, victory was declared. The resistance of the dam stopped the attacks of turkish proxy forces, preventing the invasion of Kobane and further war against the DAANES territories. They remembered and thanked all those who gave their life in the defense of the dam, both civilians and military, as well as all those injured in the resistance.
Forces connected to the transitional government continue to be deployed in the surrounding villages, as SDF also continues reinforcing the region. For now, the military conflict is over, but clashes can restart in a near future if the negotiations don't reach satisfactory agreements for both sides.
📌 PKK 12th congress
Between the 5th and the 7th of may, PKK held its 12th congress. Proposals and perspectives from Abdullah Ocalan were read and discussed, together with a report of the PKK Central Committee.
PKK commemorated the martyrs of the revolution and called on "patriotic people and all democratic socialist forces to properly embrace and live in accordance with all the national and democratic values". They announced that more details about the the congress will be published in the coming days.
Anarchist report from NES
Weekly Highlights 05.05.25 - 11.05.25 📌 Visit al-Sharaa in France Al-Sharaa visited France to have a meeting with Emmanuel Macron. News reported Macron’s proposal to strengthen the cooperation of the new government with SDF in the fight against ISIS. In the…
💬 Evaluation
The resistance in Tishreen declared victory over the attacks of Turkish proxies, concluding almost 4 months of civilian vigil. People from all territories of the DAANES, from Kobane to Deir Ezzor, joined this popular initiative to defend the dam and stop the enemy advance. The combination of military defense and civilian resistance is a clear example of how the revolutionary principles of this revolution are put in practice. It shows the will and determination of the people of North-East Syria, ready to fight to protect their land and defend the achievements of the revolution. It also shows the value of diversity of tactics, how different elements can combine and support each other if they share common revolutionary aims.
The appointment of Abu Hatem Shaqra as leader of the 86th division is bold decision that will have serious implications. The Damascus government making such appointment is an attempt to exercise power and demonstrate authority over North-East Syria, questioning SDF and the inhabitants of North eastern Syria. It is a direct and conscious provocation from a newly born authoritarian regime, that will for sure undermine the already challenging negotiation for integration of SDF in the new Syrian army. Abu Hatem Shaqra's connection to the turkish secret services is beyond question: he was the commander of a turkish backed group (Ahrar al-Sharqiya) and joined several meetings organized by the MIT during the Afrin war. For turkey, positioning SNA commanders like Abu Hatem Shaqra or Fahim Issa (nominated at the head of the ministry of defense of Syria a month ago) in the higher ranks of the new Syrian Army is a way to ensure influence and to guarantee the alignment of the new Syrian army with Turkish interests. His appointment also questions the US, which has his name on a terrorist list and already made statements condemning such decision.
The visit of al-Sharaa in France may seem a contradictory event, specially when UN and many French politicians opposed such a visit. The French president made special permission for him, allowing the head of the transitional government to visit Europe for the first time. For al-Sharaa, this trip is another step towards legitimacy, probably hoping that other European states will follow the French example, also gathering support for the EU to lift economic sanctions on Syria. The French president emphasized their wish for the Syrian transitional government to strengthen collaboration with SDF, knowing that many international ISIS fighters in NES prisons have French nationality. Discussions about the new Syrian government taking control of ISIS prisons, as Turkey already proposed, necessarily rings the alarms for many countries. Intelligence services all over the world are worried about the future of those experienced salafist militants, especially if the current islamist government takes control of those prisons. Even if we can't be sure about it, this was probably one of the main reasons that motivated French state to invite al-Shara.
News about the recent congress of PKK are also raising questions about what implications will it have not only for Syria, but for all parts of Kurdistan. As for now not much information is available on what agreements were reached in the congress, but it is expected that official statements will soon be published.
Revolutionary greetings! 🖤
The resistance in Tishreen declared victory over the attacks of Turkish proxies, concluding almost 4 months of civilian vigil. People from all territories of the DAANES, from Kobane to Deir Ezzor, joined this popular initiative to defend the dam and stop the enemy advance. The combination of military defense and civilian resistance is a clear example of how the revolutionary principles of this revolution are put in practice. It shows the will and determination of the people of North-East Syria, ready to fight to protect their land and defend the achievements of the revolution. It also shows the value of diversity of tactics, how different elements can combine and support each other if they share common revolutionary aims.
The appointment of Abu Hatem Shaqra as leader of the 86th division is bold decision that will have serious implications. The Damascus government making such appointment is an attempt to exercise power and demonstrate authority over North-East Syria, questioning SDF and the inhabitants of North eastern Syria. It is a direct and conscious provocation from a newly born authoritarian regime, that will for sure undermine the already challenging negotiation for integration of SDF in the new Syrian army. Abu Hatem Shaqra's connection to the turkish secret services is beyond question: he was the commander of a turkish backed group (Ahrar al-Sharqiya) and joined several meetings organized by the MIT during the Afrin war. For turkey, positioning SNA commanders like Abu Hatem Shaqra or Fahim Issa (nominated at the head of the ministry of defense of Syria a month ago) in the higher ranks of the new Syrian Army is a way to ensure influence and to guarantee the alignment of the new Syrian army with Turkish interests. His appointment also questions the US, which has his name on a terrorist list and already made statements condemning such decision.
The visit of al-Sharaa in France may seem a contradictory event, specially when UN and many French politicians opposed such a visit. The French president made special permission for him, allowing the head of the transitional government to visit Europe for the first time. For al-Sharaa, this trip is another step towards legitimacy, probably hoping that other European states will follow the French example, also gathering support for the EU to lift economic sanctions on Syria. The French president emphasized their wish for the Syrian transitional government to strengthen collaboration with SDF, knowing that many international ISIS fighters in NES prisons have French nationality. Discussions about the new Syrian government taking control of ISIS prisons, as Turkey already proposed, necessarily rings the alarms for many countries. Intelligence services all over the world are worried about the future of those experienced salafist militants, especially if the current islamist government takes control of those prisons. Even if we can't be sure about it, this was probably one of the main reasons that motivated French state to invite al-Shara.
News about the recent congress of PKK are also raising questions about what implications will it have not only for Syria, but for all parts of Kurdistan. As for now not much information is available on what agreements were reached in the congress, but it is expected that official statements will soon be published.
Revolutionary greetings! 🖤
Weekly Highlights 12.05.25 - 19.05.25
📌 Deir Ezzor security operations and ISIS activities
After continued attacks on SDF checkpoints in eastern Deir Ezzor, SDF deployed additional forces to carry out a wider security operation. More than 10 ISIS linked individuals have been arrested after an extensive intelligence research, focused not just on sleeping cells, but targeting also networks of weapons and oil smuggling often connected with ISIS activities. Despite the defeat of the caliphate, insurgent activity of ISIS in the desert areas of central Syria continued. Since the collapse of the al-Assad regime, sunni fundamentalist groups are disappointed with the moderate politics of the transitional government of al-Sharaa. ISIS is exploiting those frustrations to recruit insurgents into their ranks, increasing their activities and expanding their networks. Syrian authorities also claim the arrest of an ISIS cell in Aleppo, as a reaction to a deadly attack of the fundamentalist group on a public security facility that resulted in the death of a security officer.
📌 Trump - Al-Sharaa meeting in Saudi Arabia
Trump announced in Riyadh that he will lift the sanctions on Syria, presenting it as “a new opportunity” for the Syrian government to restore stability. The declaration came during his speech at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh, where Trump is on a high-profile tour on middle east. After that announcement, a face to face meeting between Trump and al-Sharaa took place, together with Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Erdoğan, who joined online. The White House announced their request for Syria to expel Palestinian terrorists groups and to join the Abraham agreements (agreements of normalization of relations between Israel and Arab nations). Another major request was for the Syrian government to assume full responsibility for ISIS detention centers of northeast Syria, currently under control of SDF. The previous request of US for lifting sanctions of removing foreign islamists from government positions was not mentioned. Al-Sharaa invited U.S. companies to invest in Syria’s oil and gas sectors.
📌 More HTS and SNA appointments in government positions
The government of al-Sharaa continues to appoint important figures of HTS in key positions of the transitional government. This include Abdul Qader al Tahhan (Abu Bilal Quds) as Deputy Interior Minister for National Security Affairs, Hakim al Deiri (Dia al Din al Omar) as General Security Services (GSS) Director of Latakia Province and Muhammad Taha al Ahmad as Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab Affairs. Also this week a meeting with leading commanders of SNA was held nearby Serekaniye. They discussed about integration of different SNA groups in the new Syrian army, without requiring them to reform or restructure their forces. This brings important questions for the future of the M4 strip area between Serekaniye and Gire Spi, occupied by Turkish proxies since 2019. Thousands of families are waiting to return to their homes after they were expelled by the Turkish military operations more than 5 years ago.
📌 PKK ceasing activities
After a two day congress held in Irak, PKK announced that it will cease activities under such name and that the organization will disband. This statement follows the call of their imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan, calling for a peace process and the resolution of the Kurdish question over political means. Turkish state welcomed the statement, but announced that it will continue its ground military operations on areas under control of PKK. Turkish President Erdoğan made declarations calling for the process of dissolution and disarmament to also involve the Syrian and European branches of the organization.
Mazloum Abdi, head of SDF, welcomed the announcement of PKK describing it as a “historic and courageous” decision, marking what he called a pivotal moment for politics and peace in the Middle East.
📌 Deir Ezzor security operations and ISIS activities
After continued attacks on SDF checkpoints in eastern Deir Ezzor, SDF deployed additional forces to carry out a wider security operation. More than 10 ISIS linked individuals have been arrested after an extensive intelligence research, focused not just on sleeping cells, but targeting also networks of weapons and oil smuggling often connected with ISIS activities. Despite the defeat of the caliphate, insurgent activity of ISIS in the desert areas of central Syria continued. Since the collapse of the al-Assad regime, sunni fundamentalist groups are disappointed with the moderate politics of the transitional government of al-Sharaa. ISIS is exploiting those frustrations to recruit insurgents into their ranks, increasing their activities and expanding their networks. Syrian authorities also claim the arrest of an ISIS cell in Aleppo, as a reaction to a deadly attack of the fundamentalist group on a public security facility that resulted in the death of a security officer.
📌 Trump - Al-Sharaa meeting in Saudi Arabia
Trump announced in Riyadh that he will lift the sanctions on Syria, presenting it as “a new opportunity” for the Syrian government to restore stability. The declaration came during his speech at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh, where Trump is on a high-profile tour on middle east. After that announcement, a face to face meeting between Trump and al-Sharaa took place, together with Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Erdoğan, who joined online. The White House announced their request for Syria to expel Palestinian terrorists groups and to join the Abraham agreements (agreements of normalization of relations between Israel and Arab nations). Another major request was for the Syrian government to assume full responsibility for ISIS detention centers of northeast Syria, currently under control of SDF. The previous request of US for lifting sanctions of removing foreign islamists from government positions was not mentioned. Al-Sharaa invited U.S. companies to invest in Syria’s oil and gas sectors.
📌 More HTS and SNA appointments in government positions
The government of al-Sharaa continues to appoint important figures of HTS in key positions of the transitional government. This include Abdul Qader al Tahhan (Abu Bilal Quds) as Deputy Interior Minister for National Security Affairs, Hakim al Deiri (Dia al Din al Omar) as General Security Services (GSS) Director of Latakia Province and Muhammad Taha al Ahmad as Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab Affairs. Also this week a meeting with leading commanders of SNA was held nearby Serekaniye. They discussed about integration of different SNA groups in the new Syrian army, without requiring them to reform or restructure their forces. This brings important questions for the future of the M4 strip area between Serekaniye and Gire Spi, occupied by Turkish proxies since 2019. Thousands of families are waiting to return to their homes after they were expelled by the Turkish military operations more than 5 years ago.
📌 PKK ceasing activities
After a two day congress held in Irak, PKK announced that it will cease activities under such name and that the organization will disband. This statement follows the call of their imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan, calling for a peace process and the resolution of the Kurdish question over political means. Turkish state welcomed the statement, but announced that it will continue its ground military operations on areas under control of PKK. Turkish President Erdoğan made declarations calling for the process of dissolution and disarmament to also involve the Syrian and European branches of the organization.
Mazloum Abdi, head of SDF, welcomed the announcement of PKK describing it as a “historic and courageous” decision, marking what he called a pivotal moment for politics and peace in the Middle East.
“The PKK’s decision to dismantle its organizational structure, end the armed struggle, and adopt democratic politics based on the call of leader Abdullah Öcalan is commendable. We are confident this step will pave the way for a new phase of politics and peace in the region.”
Anarchist report from NES
Weekly Highlights 12.05.25 - 19.05.25 📌 Deir Ezzor security operations and ISIS activities After continued attacks on SDF checkpoints in eastern Deir Ezzor, SDF deployed additional forces to carry out a wider security operation. More than 10 ISIS linked individuals…
💬 Evaluation
For more than six and a half months we have been reporting about the ongoing situation on Syria, with special focus on the development of the revolutionary process of north-East Syria. The region has been experiencing deep political changes and transformations, that we try to analyze combining the information that gets published with our experiences and sources on the ground.
We reached a point were this task is getting heavier for us, not being able to fully grasp the meaning of the unfolding events. In these circumstances, we consider it appropriate to re-evaluate our tasks and our role as anarchists in north-east Syria. We want to provide accurate evaluations, in line with our political perspectives and coherent with the principles of critical solidarity that characterize our vision of internationalism.
The implications of what we are witnessing stretches beyond what we expected. We need to be careful about what we share with you all, and we will need some time to reflect what is happening in the new Syria that is being made, what implications does it have for Kurdistan and for Middle east and how this will affect the rest of the world. Overall, we need to reflect what lessons we, as well as other revolutionary movements, can learn from this situation.
Revolutionary greetings 🖤
For more than six and a half months we have been reporting about the ongoing situation on Syria, with special focus on the development of the revolutionary process of north-East Syria. The region has been experiencing deep political changes and transformations, that we try to analyze combining the information that gets published with our experiences and sources on the ground.
We reached a point were this task is getting heavier for us, not being able to fully grasp the meaning of the unfolding events. In these circumstances, we consider it appropriate to re-evaluate our tasks and our role as anarchists in north-east Syria. We want to provide accurate evaluations, in line with our political perspectives and coherent with the principles of critical solidarity that characterize our vision of internationalism.
The implications of what we are witnessing stretches beyond what we expected. We need to be careful about what we share with you all, and we will need some time to reflect what is happening in the new Syria that is being made, what implications does it have for Kurdistan and for Middle east and how this will affect the rest of the world. Overall, we need to reflect what lessons we, as well as other revolutionary movements, can learn from this situation.
Revolutionary greetings 🖤
❤1
Weekly Highlights 19.05.25 - 25.05.25
📌 ISIS resurgence reaching new levels
Daesh continue attacking SDF checkpoints in eastern Deir Ezzor in the context of a worrying resurgence of their activities, passing from isolated strikes to coordinated operations. The partial withdrawal of US forces from NES with the evacuation of some bases located in Deir Ez Zor coincides with the increase of ISIS activities and puts a heavy burden on the shoulders of SDF. Many jihadist groups previously located in Idlib are disappointed with the direction of HTS. This disappointment creates a fertile ground for ISIS recruiters, already calling for their former members to rejoin their ranks, inviting also SNA groups to pledge allegiance to the Islamic state. Forces of the General Security Services (GSS) also carried out operations against ISIS cells in Aleppo after new attacks against GSS checkpoints in Deir Ezzor.
📌 Attack on Russian air base
"Burkan al Furat” claimed the attack on Russian forces at Hmeimim air base that killed two Russian soldiers. They published a statement giving the Russians one month to leave Syria before they attack again. The Islamist group also announced that two of its fighters were killed, including ex-Hayat Tahrir al Sham (HTS) military trainer Abu Jihad Masri. The syrian transitional goverment declared that they acted without approval from the Central Security Services.
📌 Tensions in Suweyda continue
Armed attacks and confrontations continue escalating amid the challenges faced by the transitional government and Druze forces in maintaining security in Suwayda Province. Local armed groups have engaged in repeated incidents of theft and other various criminal activities in Suwayda in recent days. A leader of "Men of Dignity" complained that the government has not provided local police institutions with any logistical support or equipment since the May 1 agreement. A new Druze faction known as the “National Guard Forces” recently formed in Suwayda Province, likely due to continued distrust between some Druze and local Sunni communities and the government's continued security challenges.
📌 Renewed tensions between SDF and SNA at Tishreen Dam
SDF and SNA factions are advancing towards each other west of Tishreen Dam, in the Manbij countryside. Some clashes recently took place there, and it is not clear if Damascus sanctioned the SNA’s recent activity near Tishreen Dam or if they continue to act independently. The existence of SNA-dominated army units that do not answer to Damascus risks discouraging Kurdish militants from integrating into the state due to the SNA’s historic abuses against the Kurdish population.
📌 Damascus delegation in al-Hol
A delegation from the Syrian transitional government visited Hol Camp to discuss the conditions of Syrian residents. The delegation included representatives from the ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs, the intelligence services, as well as officials responsible for counterterrorism efforts within the Syrian transitional government, accompanied by representatives of the U.S.-led Global Coalition.
The delegation held a meeting with representatives of the DAANES and the camp’s administration, discussing the potential return of Syrian residents in the camp to their home areas and villages.
📌 ISIS resurgence reaching new levels
Daesh continue attacking SDF checkpoints in eastern Deir Ezzor in the context of a worrying resurgence of their activities, passing from isolated strikes to coordinated operations. The partial withdrawal of US forces from NES with the evacuation of some bases located in Deir Ez Zor coincides with the increase of ISIS activities and puts a heavy burden on the shoulders of SDF. Many jihadist groups previously located in Idlib are disappointed with the direction of HTS. This disappointment creates a fertile ground for ISIS recruiters, already calling for their former members to rejoin their ranks, inviting also SNA groups to pledge allegiance to the Islamic state. Forces of the General Security Services (GSS) also carried out operations against ISIS cells in Aleppo after new attacks against GSS checkpoints in Deir Ezzor.
📌 Attack on Russian air base
"Burkan al Furat” claimed the attack on Russian forces at Hmeimim air base that killed two Russian soldiers. They published a statement giving the Russians one month to leave Syria before they attack again. The Islamist group also announced that two of its fighters were killed, including ex-Hayat Tahrir al Sham (HTS) military trainer Abu Jihad Masri. The syrian transitional goverment declared that they acted without approval from the Central Security Services.
📌 Tensions in Suweyda continue
Armed attacks and confrontations continue escalating amid the challenges faced by the transitional government and Druze forces in maintaining security in Suwayda Province. Local armed groups have engaged in repeated incidents of theft and other various criminal activities in Suwayda in recent days. A leader of "Men of Dignity" complained that the government has not provided local police institutions with any logistical support or equipment since the May 1 agreement. A new Druze faction known as the “National Guard Forces” recently formed in Suwayda Province, likely due to continued distrust between some Druze and local Sunni communities and the government's continued security challenges.
📌 Renewed tensions between SDF and SNA at Tishreen Dam
SDF and SNA factions are advancing towards each other west of Tishreen Dam, in the Manbij countryside. Some clashes recently took place there, and it is not clear if Damascus sanctioned the SNA’s recent activity near Tishreen Dam or if they continue to act independently. The existence of SNA-dominated army units that do not answer to Damascus risks discouraging Kurdish militants from integrating into the state due to the SNA’s historic abuses against the Kurdish population.
📌 Damascus delegation in al-Hol
A delegation from the Syrian transitional government visited Hol Camp to discuss the conditions of Syrian residents. The delegation included representatives from the ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs, the intelligence services, as well as officials responsible for counterterrorism efforts within the Syrian transitional government, accompanied by representatives of the U.S.-led Global Coalition.
The delegation held a meeting with representatives of the DAANES and the camp’s administration, discussing the potential return of Syrian residents in the camp to their home areas and villages.
Weekly Highlights 26.05.25 - 01.06.25
📌 ISIS increasing influence and attacks
ISIS activities continued growing this week, with new attacks against SDF and Security forces of the transitional goverment. Car bombs and other sofisticated attacks prove that ISIS is increasing their capacities, making use of weapons seized after the collapse of Assad regime. Their newly expanded range of attacks also proves growth of their support networks. SDF and Security services of the transitional goverment continued to launch aids to counter their influence.
📌 DAANES delegation in Damascus
During diplomatic meeting several issues were discussed, leading to following conclusions: establishing committees to monitor implementation of March 10th aagreement, working to resolve issues surrounding exams and student rights, resolving difficulties of IDPs returning to their villages and cities, and overcoming problems around implementation of agreements on Ashrafiye and Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhoods of Aleppo, including disrupted prisoner exchange.
📌 Damascus refusal to release captured women fighters disrupts prisoner exchange
A second planned SDF-Damascus prisoner exchange in Aleppo has been postponed on May 28th. YPJ made a statement explaining that the Syrian transitional government refused to release women prisoners. DAANES officials stated their intentions to continue negotiating to make the prisoner exchange. On June 2nd a statement was released on media that the issue was resolved and the prisoner exchange will resume.
📌 Syrian IDP Camps and ISIS
Following an agreement between the Syrian transitional government and DAANES to transfer internally displaced persons (IDPs) from al-Hol camp hosting ISIS families, several families were allowed to return to their homes in different parts of Syria. It is not clear how the security forces of the transitional goverment will deal with those families, and it may create an opportunity for ISIS to recruit new fighters and reengage supporters. Authorities of al-Hol camp denied any agreements to transfer the administration of the camp to the transitional government.
📌 Lifting Syria sanctions
The US Treasury lifted most sanctions on Syria, the EU separately adopted a resolution to lift economic sanctions on Syria but imposed sanctions on Turkish-backed Syrian army commanders and armed factions that committed human rights abuses. The EU Council sanctioned 62nd Division Commander Mohammad al Jassem (Abu Amsha) and 76th Division Commander Saif al Din Boulad (Sayf Abu Bakr) for commanding forces that conducted arbitrary killings, torture, and other targeted violence against civilians, particularly Alawites, in early March 2025. Al-Sharaa has allowed men, such as Abu Amsha, Sayf Abu Bakr, and others, to continue to operate with relative impunity in Syria and has even promoted several of these men to high-ranking positions within the new Syrian army.
📌 Continuous armed attacks in Suweida
An ambulance of As-Suweida National Hospital was targeted on May 26th in an IED explosion that injured 6 people. This is not the first armed attack on medical personnel in the region. The same day people including healthcare workers organized a protest in front of As-Suweida National Hospital, denouncing an earlier incident where armed men entered the hospital and assaulted medical staff.
📌 ISIS increasing influence and attacks
ISIS activities continued growing this week, with new attacks against SDF and Security forces of the transitional goverment. Car bombs and other sofisticated attacks prove that ISIS is increasing their capacities, making use of weapons seized after the collapse of Assad regime. Their newly expanded range of attacks also proves growth of their support networks. SDF and Security services of the transitional goverment continued to launch aids to counter their influence.
📌 DAANES delegation in Damascus
During diplomatic meeting several issues were discussed, leading to following conclusions: establishing committees to monitor implementation of March 10th aagreement, working to resolve issues surrounding exams and student rights, resolving difficulties of IDPs returning to their villages and cities, and overcoming problems around implementation of agreements on Ashrafiye and Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhoods of Aleppo, including disrupted prisoner exchange.
📌 Damascus refusal to release captured women fighters disrupts prisoner exchange
A second planned SDF-Damascus prisoner exchange in Aleppo has been postponed on May 28th. YPJ made a statement explaining that the Syrian transitional government refused to release women prisoners. DAANES officials stated their intentions to continue negotiating to make the prisoner exchange. On June 2nd a statement was released on media that the issue was resolved and the prisoner exchange will resume.
📌 Syrian IDP Camps and ISIS
Following an agreement between the Syrian transitional government and DAANES to transfer internally displaced persons (IDPs) from al-Hol camp hosting ISIS families, several families were allowed to return to their homes in different parts of Syria. It is not clear how the security forces of the transitional goverment will deal with those families, and it may create an opportunity for ISIS to recruit new fighters and reengage supporters. Authorities of al-Hol camp denied any agreements to transfer the administration of the camp to the transitional government.
📌 Lifting Syria sanctions
The US Treasury lifted most sanctions on Syria, the EU separately adopted a resolution to lift economic sanctions on Syria but imposed sanctions on Turkish-backed Syrian army commanders and armed factions that committed human rights abuses. The EU Council sanctioned 62nd Division Commander Mohammad al Jassem (Abu Amsha) and 76th Division Commander Saif al Din Boulad (Sayf Abu Bakr) for commanding forces that conducted arbitrary killings, torture, and other targeted violence against civilians, particularly Alawites, in early March 2025. Al-Sharaa has allowed men, such as Abu Amsha, Sayf Abu Bakr, and others, to continue to operate with relative impunity in Syria and has even promoted several of these men to high-ranking positions within the new Syrian army.
📌 Continuous armed attacks in Suweida
An ambulance of As-Suweida National Hospital was targeted on May 26th in an IED explosion that injured 6 people. This is not the first armed attack on medical personnel in the region. The same day people including healthcare workers organized a protest in front of As-Suweida National Hospital, denouncing an earlier incident where armed men entered the hospital and assaulted medical staff.
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Weekly Highlights 02.06.25 - 08.06.25
📌 New Syrian Army: former regime soldiers and more jihadists
The Ministry of Defence of the new Syrian government has stated that former soldiers of the regime may be accepted into the army. Murhaf Abu Qasra also said that these should be soldiers who ‘have not stained their hands with blood.’
There is unconfirmed information that the Syrian army has refused to accept internationalist fighters from SNA linked to Turkey. However, the United States has given the green light to bring foreign jihadist ex-rebels into the army.
China has commented on this: ‘We are concerned by reports that foreign terrorist fighters in Syria have recently joined Syrian government forces. And we call on Syria's interim officials to fulfil their anti-terrorism duties. They must take all necessary measures to control all terrorist organisations and individuals designated by the Security Council, including the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) in Syria.’ China's main concern is the Uyghurs who have joined jihadist groups and are radically opposed to China.
📌 Operations against drug trafficking at the Syrian border
In the times of the Assad regime, the town of Abu Kamal located at the Syrian-Iraqi border in Deir-Ez-Zor was a smuggling hub under Iranian influence. It was used to smuggle drugs, weapons and to cross Iranian-backed militia fighters in and out from Syria. This traffic was promoted by the Assad regime.
The General Security forces are running operations aiming to assert control over the border and to put an end to the traffic. The fall of the previous regime comes with a decrease of Iranian influence in Syria, as well as elsewhere in the region, with the military defeat of several Iranian proxies including Hezbollah in Lebanon.
📌 Refugees coming back to Syria
As border crossings reopen, over 25,000 Syrian refugees returned in one week. With the fall of the Assad regime, more and more refugees are coming back to their homes, with already 400.000 crossing the borders from Turkey, Lebanon, Iraq, and Jordan. This massive influx of refugees will bring more challenges to the humanitarian crisis of Syria with 90% of Syrians leaving below the poverty line.
📌 Turkey says no immediate plans to withdraw troops from Syria
Turkey has no plans to withdraw its soldiers from Syria. The Turkish Minister of Defence stated ‘We have begun to provide military training and advisory services, while taking measures to strengthen Syria's defence capabilities.’ All this is justified by the preservation of its territorial integrity and unity, as well as the elimination of terrorism.
📌 U.S. troop withdrawal continues amid ongoing operations against ISIS
On June 4th, US officials declared that 500 troops were withdrawn from Syria, and three US bases were shut down or handed over to SDF. In a declaration on Monday, the US special envoy in Syria emphasized the need for a change in the U.S. partnership with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
The next day, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced its participation in six joint anti-ISIS operations in Iraq and Syria. The CENTCOM commander underlined that "operations like these underscore the commitment of USCENTCOM, along with our allies and partners, to the enduring defeat of ISIS in the region".
📌 Israel launches airstrikes on south Syria in response to rocket fire
On June 4th, Israeli jets struck a weapons depot belonging to the Syrian army. The IDF stated that the bombing was a response to two rockets launched toward areas under Israeli control in the Golan Heights. In a communique, Israeli forces said that the Syrian regime is responsible for all activities emanating from its territory and that it would be held accountable for the escalation.
The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied any responsiblity of the Syrian army for the attack and suggested that the rockets fired could be the result of external actors trying to destablize the region. It condemned the Israeli airstrikes, calling on the international community to take measures to stop Israeli agression.
📌 New Syrian Army: former regime soldiers and more jihadists
The Ministry of Defence of the new Syrian government has stated that former soldiers of the regime may be accepted into the army. Murhaf Abu Qasra also said that these should be soldiers who ‘have not stained their hands with blood.’
There is unconfirmed information that the Syrian army has refused to accept internationalist fighters from SNA linked to Turkey. However, the United States has given the green light to bring foreign jihadist ex-rebels into the army.
China has commented on this: ‘We are concerned by reports that foreign terrorist fighters in Syria have recently joined Syrian government forces. And we call on Syria's interim officials to fulfil their anti-terrorism duties. They must take all necessary measures to control all terrorist organisations and individuals designated by the Security Council, including the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) in Syria.’ China's main concern is the Uyghurs who have joined jihadist groups and are radically opposed to China.
📌 Operations against drug trafficking at the Syrian border
In the times of the Assad regime, the town of Abu Kamal located at the Syrian-Iraqi border in Deir-Ez-Zor was a smuggling hub under Iranian influence. It was used to smuggle drugs, weapons and to cross Iranian-backed militia fighters in and out from Syria. This traffic was promoted by the Assad regime.
The General Security forces are running operations aiming to assert control over the border and to put an end to the traffic. The fall of the previous regime comes with a decrease of Iranian influence in Syria, as well as elsewhere in the region, with the military defeat of several Iranian proxies including Hezbollah in Lebanon.
📌 Refugees coming back to Syria
As border crossings reopen, over 25,000 Syrian refugees returned in one week. With the fall of the Assad regime, more and more refugees are coming back to their homes, with already 400.000 crossing the borders from Turkey, Lebanon, Iraq, and Jordan. This massive influx of refugees will bring more challenges to the humanitarian crisis of Syria with 90% of Syrians leaving below the poverty line.
📌 Turkey says no immediate plans to withdraw troops from Syria
Turkey has no plans to withdraw its soldiers from Syria. The Turkish Minister of Defence stated ‘We have begun to provide military training and advisory services, while taking measures to strengthen Syria's defence capabilities.’ All this is justified by the preservation of its territorial integrity and unity, as well as the elimination of terrorism.
📌 U.S. troop withdrawal continues amid ongoing operations against ISIS
On June 4th, US officials declared that 500 troops were withdrawn from Syria, and three US bases were shut down or handed over to SDF. In a declaration on Monday, the US special envoy in Syria emphasized the need for a change in the U.S. partnership with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
The next day, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced its participation in six joint anti-ISIS operations in Iraq and Syria. The CENTCOM commander underlined that "operations like these underscore the commitment of USCENTCOM, along with our allies and partners, to the enduring defeat of ISIS in the region".
📌 Israel launches airstrikes on south Syria in response to rocket fire
On June 4th, Israeli jets struck a weapons depot belonging to the Syrian army. The IDF stated that the bombing was a response to two rockets launched toward areas under Israeli control in the Golan Heights. In a communique, Israeli forces said that the Syrian regime is responsible for all activities emanating from its territory and that it would be held accountable for the escalation.
The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied any responsiblity of the Syrian army for the attack and suggested that the rockets fired could be the result of external actors trying to destablize the region. It condemned the Israeli airstrikes, calling on the international community to take measures to stop Israeli agression.
📌 Last issue of Serxwebûn
The last issue of Serxwebûn magazine has been published. The magazine has been in circulation since 1979 and has become an integral part of the history of the PKK struggle. The latest issue discusses the political and ideological reasons for the party's dissolution and what this means.
The last issue of Serxwebûn magazine has been published. The magazine has been in circulation since 1979 and has become an integral part of the history of the PKK struggle. The latest issue discusses the political and ideological reasons for the party's dissolution and what this means.
Weekly Highlights 09.06.25 - 15.06.25
📌 Iran-Israel war
Last Thursday, June 12th, Israel started a bombing campaign on Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, anti-air defenses and top military leaders. The Syrian transitional goverment has no intention of getting involved in the conflict. In response to the Israel attacks, Iran launched ballistic missiles and kamikaze drones that fly over Syrian air space, most of them have been intercepted by Israeli air defense with US support. Transitional goverment sources stated they are not opposed to intercepting Iranian missiles and drones in Syrian air space. Some intercepted drones fell on Syrian soil, one of them allegedly causing a fire at a UN de-escalation point in the territory recently occupied by Israel in Syria, near the Golan hights.
Since then, the conflict has continued with exchanges of long range attacks between Iran and Israel, threatening to spiral into a regional war with very serious consequences for the middle east and the whole world. At the moment, we are following the events closely. Iranian top military leadership was eliminated in those initial attacks, and they are being replaced in haste. Many anti-air defenses of Iran have been neutralized, nuclear facilities destroyed and leading nuclear scientists assassinated.
📌 Israeli operations in Syria
Israeli forces shot and killed a young Syrian man, Muhamad Hamada, and arrested 7 others in the town of Beit Jann, on the outskirts of Damascus. This occurred in the latest raids by Israeli forces, who are continuing operations and expanding the territory they occupy in Syria since the collapse of the Assad regime.
📌 Clashes between SDF and new Syrian army
SDF and the Syrian army’s 66th Division clashed in several areas south-east of Raqqa province on June 9. Syrian media reported that the SDF and 66th Division engaged each other near Madan, Abu Hamad, and al Maghla Bridge in the eastern Raqqa countryside. The new Syrian army sent military reinforcements to its positions in Madan following the fighting, and deems that after those clashes no further escalation took place. There were no reports of casualties.
📌 ISIS reactivation of international networks
ISIS has begun reactivating its sleeper cells in both Syria and Iraq amid growing concerns that foreign fighters are once again traveling to the region to join the group. Intelligence agencies have reportedly tracked a limited number of suspected salafist foreign fighters arriving from Europe to Syria in recent months. However, it remains unclear whether they were recruited directly by ISIS or by other actors.
SDF continue carring out operations against ISIS, with significant arrests of sleeper cells and logistics networks in Raqqa and Deir Ezzor.
📌 Iran-Israel war
Last Thursday, June 12th, Israel started a bombing campaign on Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, anti-air defenses and top military leaders. The Syrian transitional goverment has no intention of getting involved in the conflict. In response to the Israel attacks, Iran launched ballistic missiles and kamikaze drones that fly over Syrian air space, most of them have been intercepted by Israeli air defense with US support. Transitional goverment sources stated they are not opposed to intercepting Iranian missiles and drones in Syrian air space. Some intercepted drones fell on Syrian soil, one of them allegedly causing a fire at a UN de-escalation point in the territory recently occupied by Israel in Syria, near the Golan hights.
Since then, the conflict has continued with exchanges of long range attacks between Iran and Israel, threatening to spiral into a regional war with very serious consequences for the middle east and the whole world. At the moment, we are following the events closely. Iranian top military leadership was eliminated in those initial attacks, and they are being replaced in haste. Many anti-air defenses of Iran have been neutralized, nuclear facilities destroyed and leading nuclear scientists assassinated.
📌 Israeli operations in Syria
Israeli forces shot and killed a young Syrian man, Muhamad Hamada, and arrested 7 others in the town of Beit Jann, on the outskirts of Damascus. This occurred in the latest raids by Israeli forces, who are continuing operations and expanding the territory they occupy in Syria since the collapse of the Assad regime.
📌 Clashes between SDF and new Syrian army
SDF and the Syrian army’s 66th Division clashed in several areas south-east of Raqqa province on June 9. Syrian media reported that the SDF and 66th Division engaged each other near Madan, Abu Hamad, and al Maghla Bridge in the eastern Raqqa countryside. The new Syrian army sent military reinforcements to its positions in Madan following the fighting, and deems that after those clashes no further escalation took place. There were no reports of casualties.
📌 ISIS reactivation of international networks
ISIS has begun reactivating its sleeper cells in both Syria and Iraq amid growing concerns that foreign fighters are once again traveling to the region to join the group. Intelligence agencies have reportedly tracked a limited number of suspected salafist foreign fighters arriving from Europe to Syria in recent months. However, it remains unclear whether they were recruited directly by ISIS or by other actors.
SDF continue carring out operations against ISIS, with significant arrests of sleeper cells and logistics networks in Raqqa and Deir Ezzor.
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Weekly Highlights 16.06.25 - 22.06.25
📌 US strike in Iran
On the 22nd, Donald Trump announced US strikes to put an end to Iran’s uranium enrichment capabilities. Those strikes reportedly destroyed the three main Iranian nuclear facilities. Israeli officials confirmed the statement but added that one of the site was not destroyed. No radiation was detected from the sites of the strikes after the attack. As an answer, the Iranian parliament decided to close the strait of Hormuz, an essential corridor for the oil of the Gulf. This decision has not been carried out till now. Closing the strait would have a major impact on the world's economy. Experts are suggesting that Iran will likely retaliate using its proxy militias in Iraq and Yemen.
Israel has continued to strike Iranian internal security and social control institutions, which could possibly destabilize the regime over time. Iran retaliates with ballistic missiles and drones. The current death toll is 639 in Iran and 24 in Israel.
📌 International actors insist on Syrian transitional government to fulfill its commitments
France and US representatives at the United Nations urged the Syrian transitional Government to fulfill its commitment. The French permanent representative insisted on the guarantee of equal rights for all Syrian communities and highlighted the rights of the Kurdish population.
During the meeting of the Security Council, the US ambassador emphasized the necessity for the Transitional government of Syria to “present its plan and intentions with regard to the foreign fighters on Syrian soil”. She also insisted on the need for a non-aggression pact between Syria and Israel, stressing the demand to remove the "terrorist Palestinian groups" from Syria. In the last months, the Syrian government put an increased pressure on the Islamic Jihad, restricting the activities of the group. As a result, some members crossed to Lebanon and Turkey.
📌 Suicide bombing in Christian church in Damascus
On Sunday, an attacker entered the Mar Elias church of the Dweila neighborhood of Damascus, opened fire and detonated his suicide vest. The reports on details of the attacks vary. Some report two men attacking. The explosion killed 25 people and injured dozens. "Saraya Ansar Al-Sunna" group claimed responsibility for the attack. It is the first suicide bombing inside Damascus since the end of Assad's regime.
📌 Inhabitants of refugee camps return home
With the fall of the Assad regime, a growing number of refugees are returning to their home. The number of IDPs living in the Waşokani camp is going down and last week, 178 families voluntarily left Al-Hol camp and set out for Aleppo. The return process happened in coordination between the DAANES, the Al-Hol camp and UNHCR. These departures is a result of the decision by the autonomous administration regarding the request of Syrian IDPs to return to their homes.
📌 US strike in Iran
On the 22nd, Donald Trump announced US strikes to put an end to Iran’s uranium enrichment capabilities. Those strikes reportedly destroyed the three main Iranian nuclear facilities. Israeli officials confirmed the statement but added that one of the site was not destroyed. No radiation was detected from the sites of the strikes after the attack. As an answer, the Iranian parliament decided to close the strait of Hormuz, an essential corridor for the oil of the Gulf. This decision has not been carried out till now. Closing the strait would have a major impact on the world's economy. Experts are suggesting that Iran will likely retaliate using its proxy militias in Iraq and Yemen.
Israel has continued to strike Iranian internal security and social control institutions, which could possibly destabilize the regime over time. Iran retaliates with ballistic missiles and drones. The current death toll is 639 in Iran and 24 in Israel.
📌 International actors insist on Syrian transitional government to fulfill its commitments
France and US representatives at the United Nations urged the Syrian transitional Government to fulfill its commitment. The French permanent representative insisted on the guarantee of equal rights for all Syrian communities and highlighted the rights of the Kurdish population.
During the meeting of the Security Council, the US ambassador emphasized the necessity for the Transitional government of Syria to “present its plan and intentions with regard to the foreign fighters on Syrian soil”. She also insisted on the need for a non-aggression pact between Syria and Israel, stressing the demand to remove the "terrorist Palestinian groups" from Syria. In the last months, the Syrian government put an increased pressure on the Islamic Jihad, restricting the activities of the group. As a result, some members crossed to Lebanon and Turkey.
📌 Suicide bombing in Christian church in Damascus
On Sunday, an attacker entered the Mar Elias church of the Dweila neighborhood of Damascus, opened fire and detonated his suicide vest. The reports on details of the attacks vary. Some report two men attacking. The explosion killed 25 people and injured dozens. "Saraya Ansar Al-Sunna" group claimed responsibility for the attack. It is the first suicide bombing inside Damascus since the end of Assad's regime.
📌 Inhabitants of refugee camps return home
With the fall of the Assad regime, a growing number of refugees are returning to their home. The number of IDPs living in the Waşokani camp is going down and last week, 178 families voluntarily left Al-Hol camp and set out for Aleppo. The return process happened in coordination between the DAANES, the Al-Hol camp and UNHCR. These departures is a result of the decision by the autonomous administration regarding the request of Syrian IDPs to return to their homes.
Weekly Highlights 23.06.25 - 29.06.25
Church bombing in Damascus
Contrary to the declaration of the transitional government of Syria, The Mar Elias Church bombing was claimed by the group Saraya Ansar Al-Sunnah. This islamist organization is composed of ex-members of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham who left the group, after perceiving it to be lenient towards Shia Muslims and Alawites. In previous Telegram communiques, the group claimed attacks in Homs, the Syrian coast, the rural Hama and recently threatened the Druze-majority region of Suwayda as well as religious minorities like Alawites or Shia communities.
The international community reacted to this attack making multiple declarations and expressing condolences. In his declaration, the UN Special Envoy for Syria emphasized the need for rejecting terrorism, and urged for an investigation and concrete steps to prevent such violence.
The Armenian community of Heseke, the Syrian Democratic Council and the SDF issued statements condemning the terrorist attack. SDF also called for a transparent investigation aiming to clarify the origins of the two bombers and refuted the unfounded accusation of the Damascus Government's Interior Ministry stating that both of the islamist militants escaped from Al-Hol.
Iran-Israel war
In answer to the US strike on the three Iranian nuclear facilities, the IRGC launched an air attack on the Al-Udeid US Air Base in Qatar. The missiles were intercepted, no casualties was reported.
On Wednesday, Trump stated that the US bunker-busting strikes on the Iranian nuclear facilities "ended the war". He added that Washington expects Iran to give up on any ambitions regarding nuclear armament. It is very likely that the Iranian government will reject the request.
Iran's enrichment capabilities are severely impacted; but, the enriched uranium stockpile remains a long term threat. After the Israeli - US campaign targeting Iran nuclear facilities and nuclear scientists, it remains unclear if Iran still has the structures and the necessary personnel to keep on with its project of nuclear armament.
An Israeli official stated that Israel is ready to resume operations against Iran if necessary.
Israel - Syria relation normalization
Syrian and Israeli officials are engaging in direct talks. Meetings of both representatives also happened. The Israeli National Security Council chief stated that one of the common interest on the agenda of the two countries is connected to Iranian influence on Syria and its presence in the country. He added that if the normalization of the relations between Syria and Israel kept moving forward, the Jewish state might consider to withdraw IDF from the Golan heights.
On Friday and Saturday, IDF carried out small limited incursions in villages close to the Israeli-Syrian borders. They searched the villages and pulled back 2 hours later. Those incursions are the most significant military operations of IDF on Syrian territory in the last months.
U.S. envoy reaffirms support for Syrian government
On Thursday, the US Special Envoy to Syria reaffirmed the commitment of the US to "protect Syria from Iranian-backed groups". He added, “our priority in Syria is prosperity and security, and we do not interfere with the form of governance.”
Assassination attempt on Al-Sharaa
The media reported that the Syrian army, in cooperation with the Turkish intelligence, thwarted an assassination attempt on Al-Sharaa. Allegedly, the attack would have been prevented by the arrest of a member of an ISIS cell of Daraa, one day before the visit of the Syrian president in the city in March. A source from the Syrian Ministry of Information denied the report.
The US Special Envoy to Syria expressed concerns regarding the recurrent attempts of assassination on Al-Sharaa. He added that the threat is not limited to ISIS and jihadist factions but may also come from groups that once supported Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham and are not satisfied by the politics lead by the ex-HTS leader since he came to power.
Church bombing in Damascus
Contrary to the declaration of the transitional government of Syria, The Mar Elias Church bombing was claimed by the group Saraya Ansar Al-Sunnah. This islamist organization is composed of ex-members of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham who left the group, after perceiving it to be lenient towards Shia Muslims and Alawites. In previous Telegram communiques, the group claimed attacks in Homs, the Syrian coast, the rural Hama and recently threatened the Druze-majority region of Suwayda as well as religious minorities like Alawites or Shia communities.
The international community reacted to this attack making multiple declarations and expressing condolences. In his declaration, the UN Special Envoy for Syria emphasized the need for rejecting terrorism, and urged for an investigation and concrete steps to prevent such violence.
The Armenian community of Heseke, the Syrian Democratic Council and the SDF issued statements condemning the terrorist attack. SDF also called for a transparent investigation aiming to clarify the origins of the two bombers and refuted the unfounded accusation of the Damascus Government's Interior Ministry stating that both of the islamist militants escaped from Al-Hol.
Iran-Israel war
In answer to the US strike on the three Iranian nuclear facilities, the IRGC launched an air attack on the Al-Udeid US Air Base in Qatar. The missiles were intercepted, no casualties was reported.
On Wednesday, Trump stated that the US bunker-busting strikes on the Iranian nuclear facilities "ended the war". He added that Washington expects Iran to give up on any ambitions regarding nuclear armament. It is very likely that the Iranian government will reject the request.
Iran's enrichment capabilities are severely impacted; but, the enriched uranium stockpile remains a long term threat. After the Israeli - US campaign targeting Iran nuclear facilities and nuclear scientists, it remains unclear if Iran still has the structures and the necessary personnel to keep on with its project of nuclear armament.
An Israeli official stated that Israel is ready to resume operations against Iran if necessary.
Israel - Syria relation normalization
Syrian and Israeli officials are engaging in direct talks. Meetings of both representatives also happened. The Israeli National Security Council chief stated that one of the common interest on the agenda of the two countries is connected to Iranian influence on Syria and its presence in the country. He added that if the normalization of the relations between Syria and Israel kept moving forward, the Jewish state might consider to withdraw IDF from the Golan heights.
On Friday and Saturday, IDF carried out small limited incursions in villages close to the Israeli-Syrian borders. They searched the villages and pulled back 2 hours later. Those incursions are the most significant military operations of IDF on Syrian territory in the last months.
U.S. envoy reaffirms support for Syrian government
On Thursday, the US Special Envoy to Syria reaffirmed the commitment of the US to "protect Syria from Iranian-backed groups". He added, “our priority in Syria is prosperity and security, and we do not interfere with the form of governance.”
Assassination attempt on Al-Sharaa
The media reported that the Syrian army, in cooperation with the Turkish intelligence, thwarted an assassination attempt on Al-Sharaa. Allegedly, the attack would have been prevented by the arrest of a member of an ISIS cell of Daraa, one day before the visit of the Syrian president in the city in March. A source from the Syrian Ministry of Information denied the report.
The US Special Envoy to Syria expressed concerns regarding the recurrent attempts of assassination on Al-Sharaa. He added that the threat is not limited to ISIS and jihadist factions but may also come from groups that once supported Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham and are not satisfied by the politics lead by the ex-HTS leader since he came to power.
Weekly Highlights 23.06.25 - 29.06.25
📌 Church bombing in Damascus
Contrary to the declaration of the transitional government of Syria, The Mar Elias Church bombing was claimed by the group Saraya Ansar Al-Sunnah. This islamist organization is composed of ex-members of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham who left the group, after perceiving it to be lenient towards Shia Muslims and Alawites. In previous Telegram communiques, the group claimed attacks in Homs, the Syrian coast, the rural Hama and recently threatened the Druze-majority region of Suwayda as well as religious minorities like Alawites or Shia communities.
The international community reacted to this attack making multiple declarations and expressing condolences. In his declaration, the UN Special Envoy for Syria emphasized the need for rejecting terrorism, and urged for an investigation and concrete steps to prevent such violence.
The Armenian community of Heseke, the Syrian Democratic Council and the SDF issued statements condemning the terrorist attack. SDF also called for a transparent investigation aiming to clarify the origins of the two bombers and refuted the unfounded accusation of the Damascus Government's Interior Ministry stating that both of the islamist militants escaped from Al-Hol.
📌 Iran-Israel war
In answer to the US strike on the three Iranian nuclear facilities, the IRGC launched an air attack on the Al-Udeid US Air Base in Qatar. The missiles were intercepted, no casualties was reported.
On Wednesday, Trump stated that the US bunker-busting strikes on the Iranian nuclear facilities "ended the war". He added that Washington expects Iran to give up on any ambitions regarding nuclear armament. It is very likely that the Iranian government will reject the request.
Iran's enrichment capabilities are severely impacted; but, the enriched uranium stockpile remains a long term threat. After the Israeli - US campaign targeting Iran nuclear facilities and nuclear scientists, it remains unclear if Iran still has the structures and the necessary personnel to keep on with its project of nuclear armament.
An Israeli official stated that Israel is ready to resume operations against Iran if necessary.
📌 Israel - Syria relation normalization
Syrian and Israeli officials are engaging in direct talks. Meetings of both representatives also happened. The Israeli National Security Council chief stated that one of the common interest on the agenda of the two countries is connected to Iranian influence on Syria and its presence in the country. He added that if the normalization of the relations between Syria and Israel kept moving forward, the Jewish state might consider to withdraw IDF from the Golan heights.
On Friday and Saturday, IDF carried out small limited incursions in villages close to the Israeli-Syrian borders. They searched the villages and pulled back 2 hours later. Those incursions are the most significant military operations of IDF on Syrian territory in the last months.
📌 U.S. envoy reaffirms support for Syrian government
On Thursday, the US Special Envoy to Syria reaffirmed the commitment of the US to "protect Syria from Iranian-backed groups". He added, “our priority in Syria is prosperity and security, and we do not interfere with the form of governance.”
📌 Assassination attempt on Al-Sharaa
The media reported that the Syrian army, in cooperation with the Turkish intelligence, thwarted an assassination attempt on Al-Sharaa. Allegedly, the attack would have been prevented by the arrest of a member of an ISIS cell of Daraa, one day before the visit of the Syrian president in the city in March. A source from the Syrian Ministry of Information denied the report.
The US Special Envoy to Syria expressed concerns regarding the recurrent attempts of assassination on Al-Sharaa. He added that the threat is not limited to ISIS and jihadist factions but may also come from groups that once supported Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham and are not satisfied by the politics lead by the ex-HTS leader since he came to power.
📌 Church bombing in Damascus
Contrary to the declaration of the transitional government of Syria, The Mar Elias Church bombing was claimed by the group Saraya Ansar Al-Sunnah. This islamist organization is composed of ex-members of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham who left the group, after perceiving it to be lenient towards Shia Muslims and Alawites. In previous Telegram communiques, the group claimed attacks in Homs, the Syrian coast, the rural Hama and recently threatened the Druze-majority region of Suwayda as well as religious minorities like Alawites or Shia communities.
The international community reacted to this attack making multiple declarations and expressing condolences. In his declaration, the UN Special Envoy for Syria emphasized the need for rejecting terrorism, and urged for an investigation and concrete steps to prevent such violence.
The Armenian community of Heseke, the Syrian Democratic Council and the SDF issued statements condemning the terrorist attack. SDF also called for a transparent investigation aiming to clarify the origins of the two bombers and refuted the unfounded accusation of the Damascus Government's Interior Ministry stating that both of the islamist militants escaped from Al-Hol.
📌 Iran-Israel war
In answer to the US strike on the three Iranian nuclear facilities, the IRGC launched an air attack on the Al-Udeid US Air Base in Qatar. The missiles were intercepted, no casualties was reported.
On Wednesday, Trump stated that the US bunker-busting strikes on the Iranian nuclear facilities "ended the war". He added that Washington expects Iran to give up on any ambitions regarding nuclear armament. It is very likely that the Iranian government will reject the request.
Iran's enrichment capabilities are severely impacted; but, the enriched uranium stockpile remains a long term threat. After the Israeli - US campaign targeting Iran nuclear facilities and nuclear scientists, it remains unclear if Iran still has the structures and the necessary personnel to keep on with its project of nuclear armament.
An Israeli official stated that Israel is ready to resume operations against Iran if necessary.
📌 Israel - Syria relation normalization
Syrian and Israeli officials are engaging in direct talks. Meetings of both representatives also happened. The Israeli National Security Council chief stated that one of the common interest on the agenda of the two countries is connected to Iranian influence on Syria and its presence in the country. He added that if the normalization of the relations between Syria and Israel kept moving forward, the Jewish state might consider to withdraw IDF from the Golan heights.
On Friday and Saturday, IDF carried out small limited incursions in villages close to the Israeli-Syrian borders. They searched the villages and pulled back 2 hours later. Those incursions are the most significant military operations of IDF on Syrian territory in the last months.
📌 U.S. envoy reaffirms support for Syrian government
On Thursday, the US Special Envoy to Syria reaffirmed the commitment of the US to "protect Syria from Iranian-backed groups". He added, “our priority in Syria is prosperity and security, and we do not interfere with the form of governance.”
📌 Assassination attempt on Al-Sharaa
The media reported that the Syrian army, in cooperation with the Turkish intelligence, thwarted an assassination attempt on Al-Sharaa. Allegedly, the attack would have been prevented by the arrest of a member of an ISIS cell of Daraa, one day before the visit of the Syrian president in the city in March. A source from the Syrian Ministry of Information denied the report.
The US Special Envoy to Syria expressed concerns regarding the recurrent attempts of assassination on Al-Sharaa. He added that the threat is not limited to ISIS and jihadist factions but may also come from groups that once supported Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham and are not satisfied by the politics lead by the ex-HTS leader since he came to power.
Weekly Highlights 22.09.25 - 28.09.25
📌Al-Sharaa participated in the United Nations General Assembly
On September 24, Al-Sharaa addressed the UN General Assembly. In his speech, he asserted that Syria has shifted from being an "exporter of crises" to a potential source of peace and stability in the region. Al-Sharaa warned of external attempts to "incite sectarian conflict" aimed at destabilizing Syria and emphasized the government's commitment to justice by establishing independent commissions to investigate past abuses.
Al-Sharaa also affirmed Syria's dedication to dialogue and diplomacy with Israel, referencing the ongoing negotiations regarding security agreements. He condemned Israeli military operations against Syria, urging the international community to support Syria in addressing these threats. The UN General Assembly also provided the occasion for Al-Sharaa to meet with Trump, Erdogan, and Zelensky.
📌Meeting Al-Sharaa - Trump
Following the meeting between Trump and Al-Sharaa, various declarations and decisions were made by the Trump administration regarding Syria. The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the ending of the state of emergency associated with Bashar al-Assad's rule and the lifting of broad-based sanctions. The sanctions framework was redefined as "Sanctions Regulations to Enhance Accountability for Assad and Regional Stability." This change represents a shift from blanket sanctions to more targeted measures aimed at individuals and networks involved in war crimes, human rights abuses, and drug trafficking, particularly concerning the production and smuggling of captagon.
At the same time, Barrack announced that the formation of an "inclusive central government in Syria" is to be expected before the end of 2025, stressing that the U.S. does not consider federalism a suitable solution to the Syrian crisis. In his declaration, Barrack described the Suweida massacres as "regrettable." Trump also revealed plans to issue an “important statement” regarding Syria and stated that lifting sanctions on Damascus was aimed at “giving Syrians breathing space” after previously “very strict” restrictions.
📌Meeting Al-Sharaa - Erdogan
The two presidents met on Wednesday during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Erdogan restated the “necessity of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) adherence to the March 10 agreement with the Syrian government,” encouraging the Syrian government to increase military and political pressure on the SDF to integrate into Syria. Erdogan added that Turkish support for Syria would “continue to increase.”
📌Meeting Al-Sharaa - Zelensky
On Wednesday, following a meeting between Al-Sharaa and Zelensky, Ukraine and Syria officially restored diplomatic relations. The two leaders discussed common security threats and areas where Syria and Ukraine can enhance cooperation, which likely includes trade. Although this restoration marks a new phase in the rapprochement between the two countries, it is not the first initiative of its kind. On September 23, Syrian and Ukrainian port and trade officials convened in Damascus to explore ways to enhance their bilateral economic and trade relations. Additionally, during the decline of the Assad regime, the Ukrainian army sought to diminish Russia's influence in Syria by providing training in drone tactics to the armed forces of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
The restoration of diplomatic relations between Syria and Ukraine also follows an increase in diplomatic contact between Russia and Syria in recent months.
📌Al-Sharaa participated in the United Nations General Assembly
On September 24, Al-Sharaa addressed the UN General Assembly. In his speech, he asserted that Syria has shifted from being an "exporter of crises" to a potential source of peace and stability in the region. Al-Sharaa warned of external attempts to "incite sectarian conflict" aimed at destabilizing Syria and emphasized the government's commitment to justice by establishing independent commissions to investigate past abuses.
Al-Sharaa also affirmed Syria's dedication to dialogue and diplomacy with Israel, referencing the ongoing negotiations regarding security agreements. He condemned Israeli military operations against Syria, urging the international community to support Syria in addressing these threats. The UN General Assembly also provided the occasion for Al-Sharaa to meet with Trump, Erdogan, and Zelensky.
📌Meeting Al-Sharaa - Trump
Following the meeting between Trump and Al-Sharaa, various declarations and decisions were made by the Trump administration regarding Syria. The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the ending of the state of emergency associated with Bashar al-Assad's rule and the lifting of broad-based sanctions. The sanctions framework was redefined as "Sanctions Regulations to Enhance Accountability for Assad and Regional Stability." This change represents a shift from blanket sanctions to more targeted measures aimed at individuals and networks involved in war crimes, human rights abuses, and drug trafficking, particularly concerning the production and smuggling of captagon.
At the same time, Barrack announced that the formation of an "inclusive central government in Syria" is to be expected before the end of 2025, stressing that the U.S. does not consider federalism a suitable solution to the Syrian crisis. In his declaration, Barrack described the Suweida massacres as "regrettable." Trump also revealed plans to issue an “important statement” regarding Syria and stated that lifting sanctions on Damascus was aimed at “giving Syrians breathing space” after previously “very strict” restrictions.
📌Meeting Al-Sharaa - Erdogan
The two presidents met on Wednesday during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Erdogan restated the “necessity of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) adherence to the March 10 agreement with the Syrian government,” encouraging the Syrian government to increase military and political pressure on the SDF to integrate into Syria. Erdogan added that Turkish support for Syria would “continue to increase.”
📌Meeting Al-Sharaa - Zelensky
On Wednesday, following a meeting between Al-Sharaa and Zelensky, Ukraine and Syria officially restored diplomatic relations. The two leaders discussed common security threats and areas where Syria and Ukraine can enhance cooperation, which likely includes trade. Although this restoration marks a new phase in the rapprochement between the two countries, it is not the first initiative of its kind. On September 23, Syrian and Ukrainian port and trade officials convened in Damascus to explore ways to enhance their bilateral economic and trade relations. Additionally, during the decline of the Assad regime, the Ukrainian army sought to diminish Russia's influence in Syria by providing training in drone tactics to the armed forces of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
The restoration of diplomatic relations between Syria and Ukraine also follows an increase in diplomatic contact between Russia and Syria in recent months.
📌SDF - MoD clashes
On September 23, the Syrian Ministry of Defense (MoD) conducted several drone strikes to disable SDF artillery positions located south of Deir Hafer, Aleppo Province. The drone strike killed one SDF member and injured two others. The attack was followed by hours of MoD artillery shelling that hit civilian-populated areas, injuring four children. The SDF responded by targeting several MoD positions in the area with rocket artillery. In a statement, the SDF described the attacks of the Syrian MoD as "a military escalation aimed at destabilizing the region."
📌Security talks between Syria and Israel break down
Negotiations between Syria and Israel regarding security have stalled due to Israel's demand for a humanitarian corridor connecting Israel to Suweida. Since mid-August 2025, the two countries have been discussing the demilitarization of southwestern Syria, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from territories captured after the fall of the Assad regime, and the situation of the Druze community in Suweida. They were, according to U.S. representatives, close to finalizing a "de-escalation" agreement until Israel reintroduced its demand for the humanitarian corridor.
On September 23, the Syrian Ministry of Defense (MoD) conducted several drone strikes to disable SDF artillery positions located south of Deir Hafer, Aleppo Province. The drone strike killed one SDF member and injured two others. The attack was followed by hours of MoD artillery shelling that hit civilian-populated areas, injuring four children. The SDF responded by targeting several MoD positions in the area with rocket artillery. In a statement, the SDF described the attacks of the Syrian MoD as "a military escalation aimed at destabilizing the region."
📌Security talks between Syria and Israel break down
Negotiations between Syria and Israel regarding security have stalled due to Israel's demand for a humanitarian corridor connecting Israel to Suweida. Since mid-August 2025, the two countries have been discussing the demilitarization of southwestern Syria, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from territories captured after the fall of the Assad regime, and the situation of the Druze community in Suweida. They were, according to U.S. representatives, close to finalizing a "de-escalation" agreement until Israel reintroduced its demand for the humanitarian corridor.
Weekly Highlights 29.09.25 - 05.09.25
📌Turkish military reinforcements
Turkish military deployed helicopters, air defenses and SYHK (armored vehicle-launched bridge systems, used to cross rivers) in the Kuweires Airbase, located about 10 kilometers west of the SDF-controlled town of Deir Hafer, which is the westernmost town that the SDF controls in the Aleppo province. The same source indicates that Turkish military also deployed reinforcements to the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA)-controlled towns of Gire Spi and Serekaniye. Such reinforcements can be seen as a way to pressure SDF to accept the integration conditions of the transitional goverment before the end of the year, the deadline agreed in the March 10th agreements.
📌Clashes in Tishrin and drone strike in tabqa
Armed groups affiliated with the Damascus government carried out heavy shelling on Tishrin Dam and its surroundings using tanks, other heavy weapons and drones. The shelling targeted heavy wepons positions of SDF, hitting some facilities of the Tishrin dam and damaging also civilian buildings of surrounding villages. SDF responded to the attacks with heavy weapons, no casualties reported. Days later, on Sunday, a drone striked SDF positions in the river crossing of Tabqa.
📌Partial parliamentary elections in Syria
Syria held its first parliamentary elections since the fall of al-Assad’s regime. The voting excluded the regions of Suwayda and the areas run by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, and the 19 assigned seats to those regions are expected to remain vacant. Around 6,000 voters from regional electoral bodies were expected to participate, with 1,570 candidates running for office.
📌Syrian defense officials visit Moscow
An official delegation of defense official of Damascus government visited Moscow, amid an increased number of high-level meetings between Syrian and Russian defense officials in the past month. Such increase may suggest a possible shift towards deeper Syrian-Russian defense relations.
📌Precision strikes of US in Idlib
The international coalition conducted at least two precision strikes on Idlib, targeting high rank salafist militant affiliated with al-Qaeda. In one of them they allegedly killed former Ansar al Islam leader Abu Darda Kurdi.
📌ISIS attacks on SDF
In its weekly publication al-Nabaa, an ISIS-affiliated outlet, the group announced responsibility for several attacks on SDF, claiming to have killed 11 SDF fighters, wounded 5 others, and destroyed 2 vehicles. They claim that most of their attacks targeted areas controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), to “affirm the steadfastness” of those held in Hol Camp.
📌Turkish military reinforcements
Turkish military deployed helicopters, air defenses and SYHK (armored vehicle-launched bridge systems, used to cross rivers) in the Kuweires Airbase, located about 10 kilometers west of the SDF-controlled town of Deir Hafer, which is the westernmost town that the SDF controls in the Aleppo province. The same source indicates that Turkish military also deployed reinforcements to the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA)-controlled towns of Gire Spi and Serekaniye. Such reinforcements can be seen as a way to pressure SDF to accept the integration conditions of the transitional goverment before the end of the year, the deadline agreed in the March 10th agreements.
📌Clashes in Tishrin and drone strike in tabqa
Armed groups affiliated with the Damascus government carried out heavy shelling on Tishrin Dam and its surroundings using tanks, other heavy weapons and drones. The shelling targeted heavy wepons positions of SDF, hitting some facilities of the Tishrin dam and damaging also civilian buildings of surrounding villages. SDF responded to the attacks with heavy weapons, no casualties reported. Days later, on Sunday, a drone striked SDF positions in the river crossing of Tabqa.
📌Partial parliamentary elections in Syria
Syria held its first parliamentary elections since the fall of al-Assad’s regime. The voting excluded the regions of Suwayda and the areas run by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, and the 19 assigned seats to those regions are expected to remain vacant. Around 6,000 voters from regional electoral bodies were expected to participate, with 1,570 candidates running for office.
📌Syrian defense officials visit Moscow
An official delegation of defense official of Damascus government visited Moscow, amid an increased number of high-level meetings between Syrian and Russian defense officials in the past month. Such increase may suggest a possible shift towards deeper Syrian-Russian defense relations.
📌Precision strikes of US in Idlib
The international coalition conducted at least two precision strikes on Idlib, targeting high rank salafist militant affiliated with al-Qaeda. In one of them they allegedly killed former Ansar al Islam leader Abu Darda Kurdi.
📌ISIS attacks on SDF
In its weekly publication al-Nabaa, an ISIS-affiliated outlet, the group announced responsibility for several attacks on SDF, claiming to have killed 11 SDF fighters, wounded 5 others, and destroyed 2 vehicles. They claim that most of their attacks targeted areas controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), to “affirm the steadfastness” of those held in Hol Camp.
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Weekly Highlights 13.10.25 - 19.10.25
SDF integration into the new Syrian army
On October 14 and 15, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) officials confirmed the integration of SDF into the new Syrian army, comprising three divisions and several independent brigades located in northeastern Syria (NES). SDF counterterrorism brigades will be deployed all over Syria. The Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) will also form a brigade in the new army. Disagreements between Syrian government and SDF officials persist regarding the YPJ's role in the new structure. On October 7, Mazloum Abdi and Al-Sharaa reached a "preliminary agreement" on military integration, though specifics remain unannounced. An “initial timeline” have been set for this integration by the end of 2025, but it was emphasized that it is not a definitive timeline.
SDF - Syrian government forces joint force to fight ISIS
Mazloum Abdi announced ongoing discussions with Damascus and Washington to establish a joint military force against ISIS. He described this initiative as part of a broader strategy to combat terrorism across Syria.
The commander of the SDF stated, “Washington proposed the creation of a joint force between us and Damascus to fight ISIS, and we have accepted.” He emphasized that the SDF aims to make the fight against ISIS “a comprehensive, nationwide effort.”
Abdi also mentioned that upcoming meetings between SDF and Syrian transitional government military committees will take place in Damascus to discuss coordination mechanisms.
Discussions Turkey - Syrian governement to expand Adana Agreement
On October 17, a Turkish officials stated that discussions are underway to expand the 1998 Adana Agreement, which currently permits Turkey to target Kurdish fighters up to five kilometers into Syrian territory, raising the limit to 30 kilometers. Turkey is seeking an agreement with the Syrian government to allow its forces to target SDF fighters deep within Syria and potentially set the stage for future military operations against the SDF.
Expanding the agreement would facilitate Turkey's operations within the 30-kilometer zone. While it has conducted strikes deeper than this limit in the past, a revised Adana Agreement would support ground pursuits and help mitigate friction with the new Syrian government.
It remains uncertain whether the Syrian government will agree to these terms, as it could jeopardize recent Kurdish cooperation.
Meeting Al Sharaa - Putin
Al-Sharaa met with Vladimir Putin on October 15. Sharaa expressed a desire to “redefine” the Syrian-Russian relationship, emphasizing Russia's “significant role” in advancing Syria's political goals. Putin indicated his support for new initiatives, particularly in Syria's energy sector reconstruction.
The Russia-Syria relationship, evolving since the regime's fall, now consists of mutually beneficial arrangements. Russia retains military presence at three bases in Syria, and has used economic support to secure its position under Sharaa’s government.
The Syrian government likely seeks military cooperation to gain insights for building a new army, although direct arms supplies from Russia are unlikely due to ongoing needs in Ukraine. Syria also needs economic support to address resource shortages, with Russia providing oil and wheat while discussing future involvement in infrastructure restoration. Furthermore, Syrian officials are likely working to secure Russia's commitment to stop supporting members of the Assad regime to enhance their legitimacy and advocate for accountability. Engaging Russia may also serve to counterbalance Israel's presence in southern Syria, with considerations for redeploying Russian military police in the area.
SDF integration into the new Syrian army
On October 14 and 15, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) officials confirmed the integration of SDF into the new Syrian army, comprising three divisions and several independent brigades located in northeastern Syria (NES). SDF counterterrorism brigades will be deployed all over Syria. The Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) will also form a brigade in the new army. Disagreements between Syrian government and SDF officials persist regarding the YPJ's role in the new structure. On October 7, Mazloum Abdi and Al-Sharaa reached a "preliminary agreement" on military integration, though specifics remain unannounced. An “initial timeline” have been set for this integration by the end of 2025, but it was emphasized that it is not a definitive timeline.
SDF - Syrian government forces joint force to fight ISIS
Mazloum Abdi announced ongoing discussions with Damascus and Washington to establish a joint military force against ISIS. He described this initiative as part of a broader strategy to combat terrorism across Syria.
The commander of the SDF stated, “Washington proposed the creation of a joint force between us and Damascus to fight ISIS, and we have accepted.” He emphasized that the SDF aims to make the fight against ISIS “a comprehensive, nationwide effort.”
Abdi also mentioned that upcoming meetings between SDF and Syrian transitional government military committees will take place in Damascus to discuss coordination mechanisms.
Discussions Turkey - Syrian governement to expand Adana Agreement
On October 17, a Turkish officials stated that discussions are underway to expand the 1998 Adana Agreement, which currently permits Turkey to target Kurdish fighters up to five kilometers into Syrian territory, raising the limit to 30 kilometers. Turkey is seeking an agreement with the Syrian government to allow its forces to target SDF fighters deep within Syria and potentially set the stage for future military operations against the SDF.
Expanding the agreement would facilitate Turkey's operations within the 30-kilometer zone. While it has conducted strikes deeper than this limit in the past, a revised Adana Agreement would support ground pursuits and help mitigate friction with the new Syrian government.
It remains uncertain whether the Syrian government will agree to these terms, as it could jeopardize recent Kurdish cooperation.
Meeting Al Sharaa - Putin
Al-Sharaa met with Vladimir Putin on October 15. Sharaa expressed a desire to “redefine” the Syrian-Russian relationship, emphasizing Russia's “significant role” in advancing Syria's political goals. Putin indicated his support for new initiatives, particularly in Syria's energy sector reconstruction.
The Russia-Syria relationship, evolving since the regime's fall, now consists of mutually beneficial arrangements. Russia retains military presence at three bases in Syria, and has used economic support to secure its position under Sharaa’s government.
The Syrian government likely seeks military cooperation to gain insights for building a new army, although direct arms supplies from Russia are unlikely due to ongoing needs in Ukraine. Syria also needs economic support to address resource shortages, with Russia providing oil and wheat while discussing future involvement in infrastructure restoration. Furthermore, Syrian officials are likely working to secure Russia's commitment to stop supporting members of the Assad regime to enhance their legitimacy and advocate for accountability. Engaging Russia may also serve to counterbalance Israel's presence in southern Syria, with considerations for redeploying Russian military police in the area.
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