Hours after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled the country, a video by Syrian opposition media showed a group of armed men escorting Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali out of his office and to the Four Seasons hotel. Earlier on December 8, Jalali called for free elections in the country. He also said that he is in contact with the rebel commander Abu Mohammed al-Golani to discuss managing the transition period.&nbsp;

<h2>Assad 'resigned'&nbsp;</h2>

Russian foreign ministry said on Sunday (Dec. 8) that Assad has left the country after having given orders for a peaceful handover of power.

"As a result of negotiations between B Assad and several participants in the armed conflict on the territory of the Syrian Arab Republic, he decided to resign from the presidency and left the country, giving instructions for a peaceful transfer of power. Russia did not participate in these negotiations," the ministry said.

<h2>Israeli strikes in Syria&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Multiple Israeli airstrikes were reported in Daraa and Suwayda areas in southern Syria on Sunday (Dec. 8), reported Syrian media.&nbsp;The strikes were reported near the Syria-Israel border and also at the Mezzeh airbase near the capital Damascus.

Watch |&nbsp;Bashar Al-Assad Flees as Rebels Declare Victory in Syria

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The strikes targeted ammunition and weapons depots at the Khalkhalah airbase in Suwaydam, The Times of Israel reported.

No immediate comment was given by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Earlier, IDF said it was tracking weapons in Syria and ensuring they do not reach Hezbollah or any other elements to prevent any kind of threat to Israel.&nbsp;

The Israeli strikes came after Syrian rebel factions announced on state television that they had successfully overthrown President Bashar al-Assad and had freed "unjustly detained" prisoners.&nbsp;

In their TV address, they referred to Assad as a "tyrant" and also urged for the protection of state property.&nbsp;

The development came after a wave of intense clashes and strategic advancements by the rebel forces in Damascus and surrounding areas.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hours after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled the country, a video by Syrian opposition media showed a group of armed men escorting Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali out of his office and to the Four Seasons hotel.

Hours after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled the country, a video by Syrian opposition media showed a group of armed men escorting Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali out of his office and to the Four Seasons hotel. Earlier on December 8, Jalali called for free elections in the country. He also said that he is in contact with the rebel commander Abu Mohammed al-Golani to discuss managing the transition period. Assad 'resigned' Russian foreign ministry said on Sunday (Dec. 8) that Assad has left the country after having given orders for a peaceful handover of power. "As a result of negotiations between B Assad and several participants in the armed conflict on the territory of the Syrian Arab Republic, he decided to resign from the presidency and left the country, giving instructions for a peaceful transfer of power. Russia did not participate in these negotiations," the ministry said. Israeli strikes in Syria Multiple Israeli airstrikes were reported in Daraa and Suwayda areas in southern Syria on Sunday (Dec. 8), reported Syrian media. The strikes were reported near the Syria-Israel border and also at the Mezzeh airbase near the capital Damascus. Watch | Bashar Al-Assad Flees as Rebels Declare Victory in Syria × The strikes targeted ammunition and weapons depots at the Khalkhalah airbase in Suwaydam, The Times of Israel reported. No immediate comment was given by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Earlier, IDF said it was tracking weapons in Syria and ensuring they do not reach Hezbollah or any other elements to prevent any kind of threat to Israel. The Israeli strikes came after Syrian rebel factions announced on state television that they had successfully overthrown President Bashar al-Assad and had freed "unjustly detained" prisoners. In their TV address, they referred to Assad as a "tyrant" and also urged for the protection of state property. The development came after a wave of intense clashes and strategic advancements by the rebel forces in Damascus and surrounding areas. (With inputs from agencies)

Armed men escort Syrian PM to hotel after Bashar al-Assad flees country

Syrian rebel forces have entered Damascus amid reports that President Bashar al-Assad has fled the country by plane for an unknown destination after 13 years of civil war. Watch for more details!

Syrian Rebels Take Key Military Bases Amid Damascus Takeover

Damascus Falls: Syrian Rebels Take Control After 13-Year War

Syria Civil War: Syria's Chaos Forces Regional Borders to Close

Syria Civil War: Bashar Al-Assad Flees as Rebels Declare Victory in Syria

Syria Civil War: Neighboring Countries Tighten Borders as Syria Collapses

Reports Claim Syrian President Assad Has Fled Damascus

The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad had stepped down from office and left the country, following his directive for a peaceful transfer of power. Watch for more details!

BREAKING: Russia Confirms Syrian President Assad Resigned After Talks With Stakeholders

Syrian Rebels Seize Damascus, Marking End of Assad's Rule

Syrian Rebels Claim They Have Taken Capital City Damascus

Syrian Rebels Claim to Have Captured Damascus, Saying President Assad Has Fled

Syrian rebel factions announced on Sunday (Dec 8) on state television that they have successfully overthrown President Bashar al-Assad and have freed "unjustly detained" prisoners.&nbsp;

In their TV address, they referred to Assad as a "tyrant" and also urged for the protection of state property.&nbsp;

The development came after a wave of intense clashes and strategic advancements by the rebel forces in Damascus and surrounding areas.

A group of individuals appeared on state television and made the announcement of "the liberation of the city of Damascus and the fall of the tyrant Bashar al-Assad and the release of all the unjustly detained from the regime prisons", reading a statement from the "Damascus Conquest operations room".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-syrian-rebels-who-overthrew-bashar-al-assads-24-year-old-regime-782421">Who are the Syrian rebels who overthrew Bashar-al Assad's 24-year-old regime?</a>

The rebels called on fighters and citizens to safeguard the "property of the free Syrian state".

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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It's over for Bashar. 
 
Syrian state TV airs video announcing Bashar al-Assad’s fall. <a href="https://t.co/zJtx2kPI1X">pic.twitter.com/zJtx2kPI1X</a>
— Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1865635634888552513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Syrian state TV proclaims 'victory' of rebellion</h2>

Syrian state television on Sunday declared "victory" of Syria's rebellion and the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, which they termed "criminal."&nbsp;

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Inside Syria state tv - now under rebel control <a href="https://t.co/hUaBV4iM7q">pic.twitter.com/hUaBV4iM7q</a>
— Zeina Khodr (@ZeinakhodrAljaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZeinakhodrAljaz/status/1865684493735981368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"Victory of the great Syrian revolution and the fall of the criminal Assad regime," read the full-screen message in large white writing on a mainly red background.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Syrian rebel factions announced on Sunday (Dec 8) on state television that they have successfully overthrown President Bashar al-Assad and have freed "unjustly detained" prisoners.

Syrian rebel factions announced on Sunday (Dec 8) on state television that they have successfully overthrown President Bashar al-Assad and have freed "unjustly detained" prisoners. In their TV address, they referred to Assad as a "tyrant" and also urged for the protection of state property. The development came after a wave of intense clashes and strategic advancements by the rebel forces in Damascus and surrounding areas. A group of individuals appeared on state television and made the announcement of "the liberation of the city of Damascus and the fall of the tyrant Bashar al-Assad and the release of all the unjustly detained from the regime prisons", reading a statement from the "Damascus Conquest operations room". Also read: Who are the Syrian rebels who overthrew Bashar-al Assad's 24-year-old regime? The rebels called on fighters and citizens to safeguard the "property of the free Syrian state". Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. It's over for Bashar. Syrian state TV airs video announcing Bashar al-Assad’s fall. pic.twitter.com/zJtx2kPI1X — Clash Report (@clashreport) December 8, 2024 × Syrian state TV proclaims 'victory' of rebellion Syrian state television on Sunday declared "victory" of Syria's rebellion and the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, which they termed "criminal." Inside Syria state tv - now under rebel control pic.twitter.com/hUaBV4iM7q — Zeina Khodr (@ZeinakhodrAljaz) December 8, 2024 × "Victory of the great Syrian revolution and the fall of the criminal Assad regime," read the full-screen message in large white writing on a mainly red background. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Syrian rebels appear on state TV, say toppled 'tyrant' Bashar al-Assad

On the morning of Sunday (Dec 8), Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad was nowhere to be found in Damascus when the rebel forces stormed the capital city after taking over five other cities in a span of a few days.

As the leader now appeared to have been left to fend for himself, the sequence of tumultuous events marked the end of the 24-year rule of the man who has often been called a "tyrant".

Years ago, it was the same President Assad who spearheaded the merciless crackdown on the people who were carrying out the pro-democracy revolt that soon turned into one of the bloodiest wars of the century and eventually toppled the leader.

President&nbsp; Assad faced nationwide protests demanding his resignation and also battled an armed rebellion. He eventually crushed it, and took back control of much of the country embroiled in the civil war which had started in 2011.

<h2>Who is Bashar al-Assad?</h2>

Bashar al-Assad became the president of Syria in 2000 after his father Hafez al-Assad, who was the country's ruler for almost 30 years, died of a heart attack in the same year.

Bashar was born in Damascus on 11 September 1965, and was the second son of Hafez, the leader of the Ba'ath Party and a military officer who became Syria's president after a coup in 1971.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-13-year-war-a-timeline-of-key-events-since-2011-782392">Syria's 13-year civil war: Timeline of key events since 2011 - What you should know</a>

The Assad family came from the Shia minority sect of Alawites. Shias are only around&nbsp;13 per cent of the population. But the Alawites, and particularly the Assad family, are known to have been dominant in politics since the 1960s.

Bashar studied in a school in Damascus and completed his medical degree specialising in&nbsp; ophthalmology from the University of Damascus in 1988. He worked as an army doctor and later shifted to London in 1992 for further studies.

Bashar's older brother Basil, who was expected to succeed their father, lost his life in a car accident in 1994.&nbsp;

<h2>Bashar al-Assad comes to power&nbsp;</h2>

The then 29-year-old Bashar came back to Syria to take the place of his brother. After his father's death on June 10, 2000, the Syrian parliament amended the constitution swiftly and decreased the minimum age for presidential candidates from 40 to 34 to bring Bashar al-Assad to the helm.

On July 11, 2000, Bashar officially took office and became commander-in-chief of the military and the leader of the Ba'ath Party. As soon as he came to power, Bashar refused to adopt democracy as a model for Syria.&nbsp;

He followed the hardline stance of his father on the conflict between Syria and Israel, and also opposed the US invasion of Iraq.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/damascus-falls-syrian-rebels-announce-capital-city-free-pm-says-ready-for-handover-782370">Damascus falls: Syrian rebels announce capital city 'free', PM says ready for handover</a>

Assad's regime also saw strained relations between Syria and Lebanon after the involvement of Damascus was suspected in the assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri as Syrian troops withdrew from Lebanon.

<h2>Civil war in Syria&nbsp;</h2>

Mass protests started in Syria in March 2011, inspired by the Arab Spring. Initially, Assad promised to bring reforms like releasing political prisoners and abolishing emergency laws, however, violence escalated against the protesters.

Troops and tanks were deployed by the government as Assad played the role of a victim of what he called an international conspiracy.&nbsp;

The armed opposition groups picked up the momentum by September 2011 and it soon turned into a full-blown civil war by mid-2012.

Hundreds were killed near Damascus in August 2019 in attacks which involved chemical weapons, which led to calls for international military action.&nbsp;

The United States, Russia and Syria signed an agreement as per which the country's chemical weapons were placed under international control.

Watch:&nbsp;Syrian Army Command Tells Officers That Assad's Rule Has Ended, Officer Says

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Even after this, indiscriminate use of weapons was seen in the war, including barrel bombs dropped by Assad's forces in rebel-controlled areas.

A controversial measure, Law 10, was also implemented in which the government was free to seize property from the displaced Syrians which were then redistributed to loyalists.

Elections were held by Assad in June 2014 which kept him in power, but the polls were widely believed to be a sham.

After 13 long years, the Syrian rebel forces finally stormed into Damascus and toppled Bashar al-Assad's regime which marked the historic end of the Assad family's 50-year rule of Syria.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

On the morning of Sunday (Dec 8), Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad was nowhere to be found in Damascus when the rebel forces stormed the capital city after taking over five other cities in a span of a few days.

On the morning of Sunday (Dec 8), Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad was nowhere to be found in Damascus when the rebel forces stormed the capital city after taking over five other cities in a span of a few days. As the leader now appeared to have been left to fend for himself, the sequence of tumultuous events marked the end of the 24-year rule of the man who has often been called a "tyrant". Years ago, it was the same President Assad who spearheaded the merciless crackdown on the people who were carrying out the pro-democracy revolt that soon turned into one of the bloodiest wars of the century and eventually toppled the leader. President Assad faced nationwide protests demanding his resignation and also battled an armed rebellion. He eventually crushed it, and took back control of much of the country embroiled in the civil war which had started in 2011. Who is Bashar al-Assad? Bashar al-Assad became the president of Syria in 2000 after his father Hafez al-Assad, who was the country's ruler for almost 30 years, died of a heart attack in the same year. Bashar was born in Damascus on 11 September 1965, and was the second son of Hafez, the leader of the Ba'ath Party and a military officer who became Syria's president after a coup in 1971. Also Read: Syria's 13-year civil war: Timeline of key events since 2011 - What you should know The Assad family came from the Shia minority sect of Alawites. Shias are only around 13 per cent of the population. But the Alawites, and particularly the Assad family, are known to have been dominant in politics since the 1960s. Bashar studied in a school in Damascus and completed his medical degree specialising in ophthalmology from the University of Damascus in 1988. He worked as an army doctor and later shifted to London in 1992 for further studies. Bashar's older brother Basil, who was expected to succeed their father, lost his life in a car accident in 1994. Bashar al-Assad comes to power The then 29-year-old Bashar came back to Syria to take the place of his brother. After his father's death on June 10, 2000, the Syrian parliament amended the constitution swiftly and decreased the minimum age for presidential candidates from 40 to 34 to bring Bashar al-Assad to the helm. On July 11, 2000, Bashar officially took office and became commander-in-chief of the military and the leader of the Ba'ath Party. As soon as he came to power, Bashar refused to adopt democracy as a model for Syria. He followed the hardline stance of his father on the conflict between Syria and Israel, and also opposed the US invasion of Iraq. Also Read: Damascus falls: Syrian rebels announce capital city 'free', PM says ready for handover Assad's regime also saw strained relations between Syria and Lebanon after the involvement of Damascus was suspected in the assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri as Syrian troops withdrew from Lebanon. Civil war in Syria Mass protests started in Syria in March 2011, inspired by the Arab Spring. Initially, Assad promised to bring reforms like releasing political prisoners and abolishing emergency laws, however, violence escalated against the protesters. Troops and tanks were deployed by the government as Assad played the role of a victim of what he called an international conspiracy. The armed opposition groups picked up the momentum by September 2011 and it soon turned into a full-blown civil war by mid-2012. Hundreds were killed near Damascus in August 2019 in attacks which involved chemical weapons, which led to calls for international military action. The United States, Russia and Syria signed an agreement as per which the country's chemical weapons were placed under international control. Watch: Syrian Army Command Tells Officers That Assad's Rule Has Ended, Officer Says Even after this, indiscriminate use of weapons was seen in the war, including barrel bombs dropped by Assad's forces in rebel-controlled areas. A controversial measure, Law 10, was also implemented in which the government was free to seize property from the displaced Syrians which were then redistributed to loyalists. Elections were held by Assad in June 2014 which kept him in power, but the polls were widely believed to be a sham. After 13 long years, the Syrian rebel forces finally stormed into Damascus and toppled Bashar al-Assad's regime which marked the historic end of the Assad family's 50-year rule of Syria. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Bashar Al-Assad: Syria's 'tyrant' who pushed the country into a decade-long civil war

As rebels continue to take control of more cities in Syria, Bashar al-Assad’s family is reported to have fled to Russia, the Wall Street Journal has reported. This includes his wife, children and two of his brothers-in-law.&nbsp;

The report on Friday (Dec 6), citing Syrian security officials and Arab officials, said Asma al-Assad, the Syrian president’s British-born wife, fled with their three children last week.

His brothers-in-law have travelled to the United Arab Emirates, as per the newspaper.

Whether or not Assad is still in Syria remains unclear.&nbsp;

According to Bloomberg News, a source close to the Kremlin stated that Russia doesn't plan on rescuing the Syrian president. President Vladimir Putin is apparently not happy to see the Assad regime troops fleeing their positions.

“Russia doesn’t have a plan to save Assad and doesn’t see one emerging as long as the Syrian president’s army continues to abandon its positions,” said the source.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indians-advised-to-leave-syria-at-the-earliest-as-bashar-al-assad-loses-control-of-another-city-782177">Indians advised to leave Syria at the earliest as Bashar al-Assad loses control of another city</a>

A pro-Assad TV news channel said on Friday that the president was in Iran, before withdrawing the report.

Reports suggest that Egyptian and Jordanian officials want Assad to leave the country and form a government-in-exile.

<h2>Assad loses more cities</h2>

The Syrian forces lost control of another city, Daraa, to local armed groups, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

"Local factions have taken control of more areas in Daraa province, including Daraa city... they now control more than 90 percent of the province, as regime forces successively pulled out," the Britain-based war monitor, which relies on a network of sources around Syria, said late Friday.

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India, US, Russia and Pakistan have issued advisories to their citizens, urging them to leave as soon as possible and avoid&nbsp;travel to Syria.

India's Ministry of External Affairs, in a late night advisory, asked its citizens to leave the country at the earliest. “In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification,” the MEA said.

“Indians currently in Syria are requested to remain in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) and email ID hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in for updates.”

“Those who can, are advised to leave by the earliest available commercial flights and others are requested to observe utmost precaution about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum.”

Syria's civil war has left more than 500,000 people dead in nearly 15 years,&nbsp;and forced more than half the population to flee their homes.

This is the first time in the war that Assad's forces have lost control of so many key cities in such a short space of time. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

As rebels continue to take control of more cities in Syria, Bashar al-Assad’s family is reported to have fled to Russia, the Wall Street Journal has reported. This includes his wife, children and two of his brothers-in-law.

As rebels continue to take control of more cities in Syria, Bashar al-Assad’s family is reported to have fled to Russia, the Wall Street Journal has reported. This includes his wife, children and two of his brothers-in-law. The report on Friday (Dec 6), citing Syrian security officials and Arab officials, said Asma al-Assad, the Syrian president’s British-born wife, fled with their three children last week. His brothers-in-law have travelled to the United Arab Emirates, as per the newspaper. Whether or not Assad is still in Syria remains unclear. According to Bloomberg News, a source close to the Kremlin stated that Russia doesn't plan on rescuing the Syrian president. President Vladimir Putin is apparently not happy to see the Assad regime troops fleeing their positions. “Russia doesn’t have a plan to save Assad and doesn’t see one emerging as long as the Syrian president’s army continues to abandon its positions,” said the source. Also Read: Indians advised to leave Syria at the earliest as Bashar al-Assad loses control of another city A pro-Assad TV news channel said on Friday that the president was in Iran, before withdrawing the report. Reports suggest that Egyptian and Jordanian officials want Assad to leave the country and form a government-in-exile. Assad loses more cities The Syrian forces lost control of another city, Daraa, to local armed groups, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. "Local factions have taken control of more areas in Daraa province, including Daraa city... they now control more than 90 percent of the province, as regime forces successively pulled out," the Britain-based war monitor, which relies on a network of sources around Syria, said late Friday. × India, US, Russia and Pakistan have issued advisories to their citizens, urging them to leave as soon as possible and avoid travel to Syria. India's Ministry of External Affairs, in a late night advisory, asked its citizens to leave the country at the earliest. “In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification,” the MEA said. “Indians currently in Syria are requested to remain in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) and email ID hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in for updates.” “Those who can, are advised to leave by the earliest available commercial flights and others are requested to observe utmost precaution about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum.” Syria's civil war has left more than 500,000 people dead in nearly 15 years, and forced more than half the population to flee their homes. This is the first time in the war that Assad's forces have lost control of so many key cities in such a short space of time. (With inputs from agencies)

Bashar al-Assad's family flees Syria, president's whereabouts unclear: Reports

India has issued an advisory to its citizens, asking them to avoid all travel to Syria until further notice as rebels took control of yet another city in the warn-torn West Asian nation. In a late-night advisory on Friday (Dec 6), the Ministry of External Affairs urged Indians in Syria to leave the country at the earliest.

“In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification,” the MEA said.

“Indians currently in Syria are requested to remain in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) and email ID hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in for updates.&nbsp;

“Those who can, are advised to leave by the earliest available commercial flights and others are requested to observe utmost precaution about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum,” it added.

<h2>What is happening in Syria?</h2>

Syria is in the grips of an offensive launched by rebel forces against President Bashar al-Assad's government.

According to the United Nations, nearly 370,000 people have been displaced since November 27.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-govt-bombs-key-bridge-in-bid-to-secure-homs-as-rebels-seize-hama-city-781916">Syrian govt ‘bombs’ key bridge in bid to secure Homs as rebels seize Hama city</a>

The Syrian government forces lost control of Daraa city, as per a war monitor. This comes as another blow for President Bashar al-Assad after rebels took over other key cities.

Aleppo and Hama were the two main cities taken from government control in recent days, falling to an Islamist-led rebel alliance.

Daraa fell to local armed groups, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

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"Local factions have taken control of more areas in Daraa province, including Daraa city... they now control more than 90 per cent of the province, as regime forces successively pulled out," the Britain-based Observatory, which relies on a network of sources around Syria, said late Friday.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for the protection of civilians and minorities in Syria. 
 
The US also issued an advisory for its citizens, asking them to immediately leave the country "while commercial options remain available".

"The security situation continues to be volatile and unpredictable with active clashes between armed groups throughout the country. The Department urges US citizens to depart Syria now while commercial options remain available," the State Department said in a security alert posted on social media. 
 
Besides India and the US, Pakistan also issued an advisory, asking its citizens to leave. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India has issued an advisory to its citizens, asking them to avoid all travel to Syria until further notice as rebels took control of yet another city in the warn-torn West Asian nation.

India has issued an advisory to its citizens, asking them to avoid all travel to Syria until further notice as rebels took control of yet another city in the warn-torn West Asian nation. In a late-night advisory on Friday (Dec 6), the Ministry of External Affairs urged Indians in Syria to leave the country at the earliest. “In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification,” the MEA said. “Indians currently in Syria are requested to remain in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) and email ID hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in for updates. “Those who can, are advised to leave by the earliest available commercial flights and others are requested to observe utmost precaution about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum,” it added. What is happening in Syria? Syria is in the grips of an offensive launched by rebel forces against President Bashar al-Assad's government. According to the United Nations, nearly 370,000 people have been displaced since November 27. Also Read: Syrian govt ‘bombs’ key bridge in bid to secure Homs as rebels seize Hama city The Syrian government forces lost control of Daraa city, as per a war monitor. This comes as another blow for President Bashar al-Assad after rebels took over other key cities. Aleppo and Hama were the two main cities taken from government control in recent days, falling to an Islamist-led rebel alliance. Daraa fell to local armed groups, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. × "Local factions have taken control of more areas in Daraa province, including Daraa city... they now control more than 90 per cent of the province, as regime forces successively pulled out," the Britain-based Observatory, which relies on a network of sources around Syria, said late Friday. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for the protection of civilians and minorities in Syria. The US also issued an advisory for its citizens, asking them to immediately leave the country "while commercial options remain available". "The security situation continues to be volatile and unpredictable with active clashes between armed groups throughout the country. The Department urges US citizens to depart Syria now while commercial options remain available," the State Department said in a security alert posted on social media. Besides India and the US, Pakistan also issued an advisory, asking its citizens to leave. (With inputs from agencies)

Indians advised to leave Syria at the earliest as Bashar al-Assad loses control of another city

Rebels in Syria have made rapid advances and have reached the outskirts of Damascus. The opposition forces moved at a rapid speed after seizing several cities in the war-torn country. Watch for more details!

Reports: Syrian Rebels Are Encircling Damascus

In a significant advance against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, opposition rebels have captured the southern city of Daraa, marking the fourth city to fall to insurgents within days. Watch for more details!

Syrian Rebels Announce Capturing City of Daraa

Syrian Government Loses Control of Daraa City to Rebels

Bashar al-Assad’s family fled to Russia in the days after rebel forces launched a shock offensive that captured swathes of territory across northern Syria.

Assad Family Leaves Syria, Rebel Forces Take Daraa

Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, the leader of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group that is leading the recent rebel offensive in Syria, said on Friday (Dec 6) that the goal of the offensive was to overthrow the rule of Syrian President Bashal-al Assad.

Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, the leader of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group that is leading the recent rebel offensive in Syria, said on Friday (Dec 6) that the goal of the offensive was to overthrow the rule of Syrian President Bashal-al Assad. Speaking to CNN, al-Jolani said, "When we talk about objectives, the goal of the revolution remains the overthrow of this (Assad) regime. It is our right to use all available means to achieve that goal." Also read | Syrian conflict: Rebel factions enter Hama, oust pro-govt forces from key city The offensive led by HTS began on November 27. The rebel factions have captured control of Aleppo and Hama. The rebels are now at the gates of Homs, the main central city in Syria that functions as a crossroads connecting the country's most populous regions. Around 280,000 displaced since Nov 27 offensive The United Nations (UN) said on Friday that the fighting between rebel factions and Syrian government forces since November 27 has displaced around 280,000 people. Addressing a press conference in Geneva, UN's World Food Programme (WFP) official Samer AbdelJaber said, "The figure we have in front of us is 280,000 people since November 27." "That does not include the figure of people who fled from Lebanon during the recent escalations," added AbdelJaber, who leads emergency coordination at the WFP. WFP warned that the fresh mass displacement inside Syria, more than 13 years after the country's civil war erupted, was "adding to years of suffering." AbdelJaber cautioned that if the situation continued evolving at the current pace, "we're expecting collectively around 1.5 million people that will be displaced and will be requiring our support." He pointed out that the WFP and other humanitarian agencies were trying to reach communities wherever their needs were, and were working to secure safe routes "so that we can be able to move the aid and the assistance to the communities that are in need." Statue of Assad's father toppled in Hama As rebels took control of Hama, videos circulating on social media showed the statue of President Assad's father Hafez al-Assad being toppled in Hama. Also watch | World DNA: Syrian rebels capture city of Hama × Crowds could be seen in Hama, Syria chanting 'God is Great' as the statue was pulled down by anti-government protesters. Hafez al-Assad was the Syrian president from 1971 until he died in 2000. He was succeeded by his son Bashar. This incident nearly a week after the statue of Bashar's brother Bassel al-Assad was toppled in Aleppo. Meanwhile, in the latest updates from the conflict, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan would meet his Russian and Iranian counterparts for talks on Syria. A Turkish foreign ministry source told AFP that the meeting would take place under the Astana process. The process involving Turkey, Russia, and Iran was launched by Kazakhstan in 2017 in a bid to find a political solution to the civil war in Syria. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Syrian conflict: Rebel leader says goal is to overthrow Assad's rule; 280k people displaced since Nov 27

Syrian government forces were locked in heavy fighting around the central city of Hama on Thursday, trying to halt an advance of Islamist-led rebels, a war monitor said.

The fighting around Hama follows a rapid offensive by the rebels, who in just days captured large chunks of territory, including Syria's second city, Aleppo, from President Bashar al-Assad's control.

Strategically located in central Syria, Hama is crucial for the army’s efforts to protect the capital, Damascus.

By late Wednesday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said rebel fighters had "surrounded Hama city from three sides".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-devastated-city-of-aleppo-back-in-rebel-hands-781342">Also read:&nbsp;Syria's devastated city of Aleppo back in rebel hands</a>

"Violent clashes took place during the night between the rebels and the regime forces", particularly in the Jabal Zayn al-Abidin area, just north of Hama, said the Britain-based monitor.

The head of the Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman, said government troops were engaged in "fierce resistance and trying to stop the rebels' advance".

Syrian state media quoted a military source late Wednesday as saying Russian and Syrian air forces, alongside artillery units, had conducted "concentrated strikes on the... terrorists" in the Hama area.

Watch |&nbsp;War In Syria: Rebels Claim Victory In Tel Rifaat

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Maya, a 22-year-old student who gave her first name only for security concerns, said she and her family were staying at home as the fighting rages outside.

"We have been hearing non-stop the sounds of explosions and shelling," she told AFP by telephone from Hama.

"We don't know what's going on outside."

<h2>Rebel leader tours citadel&nbsp;</h2>

The Observatory, which relies on a network of sources in Syria, says 704 people, mostly combatants but also 110 civilians, have been killed in Syria since the violence erupted last week.

It marks the most intense fighting since 2020 in a country already ravaged by civil war, which erupted with the repression of pro-democracy protests in 2011.

Key to the rebels' successes since the start of the offensive last week was the takeover of Aleppo, which in more than a decade of war had never entirely fallen out of government hands.

The head of the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, on Wednesday visited Aleppo's landmark citadel.

Jolani was seen waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited the historic fortress, in images posted on the rebels' Telegram channel.

While the advancing rebels found little resistance earlier in their offensive, the fighting around Hama has been especially fierce.

Assad ordered a 50 per cent raise in career soldiers' pay, state news agency SANA reported, as he seeks to bolster his forces for the counteroffensive.

The Observatory said government forces brought "large military convoys to Hama" and its outskirts.

It said, "Regime forces and pro-government fighters led by Russian and Iranian officers were able to repel&nbsp;an attack northwest of Hama."

The monitor also said that the fighting was close to an area mainly populated by Alawites, followers of the same offshoot of Shiite Islam as the president.

<h2>'Scorched-earth counteroffensive'&nbsp;</h2>

The rebels launched their offensive in northern Syria on November 27, the same day a ceasefire took effect in the war between Israel and Hezbollah in neighbouring Lebanon.

Both Hezbollah and Russia have been key backers of Assad's government, but have been more recently mired in their own respective conflicts.

The United Nations on Wednesday said 115,000 people had been "newly displaced across Idlib and northern Aleppo" by the fighting.

Human Rights Watch warned the fighting "raises concerns that civilians face a real risk of serious abuses at the hands of opposition armed groups and the Syrian government".

Until last week, the war in Syria had been mostly dormant for years, but analysts have said the violence was bound to flare up as it was never truly resolved.

Spearheading the rebel alliance is HTS, which is rooted in Syria's Al-Qaeda branch.

"HTS has had a lot of time and space and resources to organise itself and to prepare for this," said analyst Sam Heller of the US-based Century Foundation think tank.

How the fighting unfolds now "depends on whether the Syrian government can regain its footing", Heller said.

"Opposition forces currently pushing south will likely get stuck somewhere in Syria's centre, when they run into really motivated and intractable loyalist resistance," he said.

"At that point, it will be a question of whether Damascus has the means to mount the type of scorched-earth counteroffensive I assume it would like to execute."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Syrian government forces were locked in heavy fighting around the central city of Hama on Thursday, trying to halt an advance of Islamist-led rebels, a war monitor said.

Syrian government forces were locked in heavy fighting around the central city of Hama on Thursday, trying to halt an advance of Islamist-led rebels, a war monitor said. The fighting around Hama follows a rapid offensive by the rebels, who in just days captured large chunks of territory, including Syria's second city, Aleppo, from President Bashar al-Assad's control. Strategically located in central Syria, Hama is crucial for the army’s efforts to protect the capital, Damascus. By late Wednesday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said rebel fighters had "surrounded Hama city from three sides". Also read: Syria's devastated city of Aleppo back in rebel hands "Violent clashes took place during the night between the rebels and the regime forces", particularly in the Jabal Zayn al-Abidin area, just north of Hama, said the Britain-based monitor. The head of the Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman, said government troops were engaged in "fierce resistance and trying to stop the rebels' advance". Syrian state media quoted a military source late Wednesday as saying Russian and Syrian air forces, alongside artillery units, had conducted "concentrated strikes on the... terrorists" in the Hama area. Watch | War In Syria: Rebels Claim Victory In Tel Rifaat × Maya, a 22-year-old student who gave her first name only for security concerns, said she and her family were staying at home as the fighting rages outside. "We have been hearing non-stop the sounds of explosions and shelling," she told AFP by telephone from Hama. "We don't know what's going on outside." Rebel leader tours citadel The Observatory, which relies on a network of sources in Syria, says 704 people, mostly combatants but also 110 civilians, have been killed in Syria since the violence erupted last week. It marks the most intense fighting since 2020 in a country already ravaged by civil war, which erupted with the repression of pro-democracy protests in 2011. Key to the rebels' successes since the start of the offensive last week was the takeover of Aleppo, which in more than a decade of war had never entirely fallen out of government hands. The head of the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, on Wednesday visited Aleppo's landmark citadel. Jolani was seen waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited the historic fortress, in images posted on the rebels' Telegram channel. While the advancing rebels found little resistance earlier in their offensive, the fighting around Hama has been especially fierce. Assad ordered a 50 per cent raise in career soldiers' pay, state news agency SANA reported, as he seeks to bolster his forces for the counteroffensive. The Observatory said government forces brought "large military convoys to Hama" and its outskirts. It said, "Regime forces and pro-government fighters led by Russian and Iranian officers were able to repel an attack northwest of Hama." The monitor also said that the fighting was close to an area mainly populated by Alawites, followers of the same offshoot of Shiite Islam as the president. 'Scorched-earth counteroffensive' The rebels launched their offensive in northern Syria on November 27, the same day a ceasefire took effect in the war between Israel and Hezbollah in neighbouring Lebanon. Both Hezbollah and Russia have been key backers of Assad's government, but have been more recently mired in their own respective conflicts. The United Nations on Wednesday said 115,000 people had been "newly displaced across Idlib and northern Aleppo" by the fighting. Human Rights Watch warned the fighting "raises concerns that civilians face a real risk of serious abuses at the hands of opposition armed groups and the Syrian government". Until last week, the war in Syria had been mostly dormant for years, but analysts have said the violence was bound to flare up as it was never truly resolved. Spearheading the rebel alliance is HTS, which is rooted in Syria's Al-Qaeda branch. "HTS has had a lot of time and space and resources to organise itself and to prepare for this," said analyst Sam Heller of the US-based Century Foundation think tank. How the fighting unfolds now "depends on whether the Syrian government can regain its footing", Heller said. "Opposition forces currently pushing south will likely get stuck somewhere in Syria's centre, when they run into really motivated and intractable loyalist resistance," he said. "At that point, it will be a question of whether Damascus has the means to mount the type of scorched-earth counteroffensive I assume it would like to execute." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Syria forces fight to stop rebel advance in key central city of Hama

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said on Monday (Dec. 2) that the recent offensive by rebel factions in his country's north was an attempt to redraw the map of the region.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said on Monday (Dec. 2) that the recent offensive by rebel factions in his country's north was an attempt to redraw the map of the region. President Assad made this remark during a telephone conversation with his Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian. According to a statement from the Syrian presidency, Assad said, "The terrorist escalation reflects the far-reaching goals of dividing the region and fragmenting the countries in it and redrawing the map in line with the objectives of the United States and the West." In a shock offensive, rebel factions breached Aleppo last Friday (November 28) and clashed with government forces for the first time since 2016. The advance on Aleppo followed a shock offensive by insurgents on Wednesday (November 26). Rebels take stock of gains in north President Assad's remark on Monday came as rebel factions took stock of their gains in north Syria. Also read | Who are the Syrian rebels who have taken Aleppo after shock offensive? In the northern town of Maaret al-Numan, rebel fighters took stock of their gains, inspecting armoured vehicles with Syrian government markings, a report by the news agency Reuters said. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that more than 400 people have been killed in the major rebel offensive on government-controlled areas in the country's north. The death toll includes 214 rebels from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and allied factions who launched the offensive, 137 pro-government forces, and 61 civilians. Watch: Statue of Assad's brother torn down in Aleppo On Saturday, a statue of Bashar al-Assad's brother, Bassel, was torn down in Aleppo by armed men. Historic moment in Allepo now, as the statue of Bassel al-Assad, brother of Putin's puppet Bashar al-Assad is ripped down. pic.twitter.com/tpC0hszYDh — Jay in Kyiv (@JayinKyiv) November 30, 2024 × Bassel al-Assad was seen as the likely successor to his father, Hafez al-Assad, before he died in a car crash in 1994. In 2000, Bashar al-Assad became the President of Syria after his father's death. It is not yet known who were the men who tore down the statue. (With inputs from agencies)

Syrian conflict: Assad says strife in north a bid to redraw the region's map

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni calls for better relations with the Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad to 'help Syrian refugees return home'. Watch in for more details!

'Better Ties With Assad Will Help Syrian Refugees Return Home', Says Meloni

In a historic move, France has issued an international arrest warrant for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, accusing him of complicity in crimes against humanity and war crimes over chemical attacks in 2013, news agencies reported on Wednesday (Nov 16) citing a judicial source.&nbsp;

The plaintiffs in the case also said that besides al-Assad, his brother Maher al-Assad and two other senior officials have also been included in the warrant.&nbsp;

The arrest warrants came in the aftermath of a criminal investigation into chemical attacks in the town of Douma and the district of Eastern Ghouta in Aug 2013.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-calls-xi-dictator-after-us-china-strategic-meet-before-on-the-sidelines-of-apec-summit-659161">Biden calls Xi 'dictator' right after 'constructive' US-China strategic meet on the sidelines of APEC summit</a>&nbsp;

As per the official estimate, the sarin gas attacks saw more than 1,400 people suffocate to death. The incident during the conflict raging for over a decade led to global condemnation.&nbsp;

The organisation which filed a legal complaint hailed the move.&nbsp;

It said that this was the first time a sitting head of state had been named in an arrest warrant in another country for allegations linked to war crimes and crimes against humanity.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-trudeau-escorted-to-safety-after-pro-palestinian-protesters-surround-restaurant-where-he-dined-659215">Trudeau escorted to safety after pro-Palestinian protesters surround restaurant where he dined</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by Reuters, Mazen Darwish, who is the lawyer and founder of the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM), said that these are also the first international arrest warrants that have been issued over the chemical weapons attack in Ghouta.&nbsp;

The rights group SCM filed the case in France. In total, three international warrants were also issued for the arrests of Assad's brother Maher, the chief of the Fourth Division, the Syrian army's elite military unit, and two generals.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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A complaint was filed by SCM, Open Society Justice Initiative (OSJI) and the Syrian Archive, which is an organisation documenting human rights violations in Syria.&nbsp;

In a statement to AFP, Darwish said that "It's a huge development" and "an independent jurisdiction is recognising that the chemical attack couldn't have happened without the knowledge of the Syrian president, that he has responsibility and should be held accountable".&nbsp;

Notably, France can prosecute alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed anywhere in the world under the principle of universal jurisdiction.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a historic move, France has issued an international arrest warrant for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, accusing him of complicity in crimes against humanity and war crimes over chemical attacks in 2013, news agencies reported on Wednesday (Nov 16) citing a judicial source.

In a historic move, France has issued an international arrest warrant for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, accusing him of complicity in crimes against humanity and war crimes over chemical attacks in 2013, news agencies reported on Wednesday (Nov 16) citing a judicial source. The plaintiffs in the case also said that besides al-Assad, his brother Maher al-Assad and two other senior officials have also been included in the warrant. The arrest warrants came in the aftermath of a criminal investigation into chemical attacks in the town of Douma and the district of Eastern Ghouta in Aug 2013. Also read: Biden calls Xi 'dictator' right after 'constructive' US-China strategic meet on the sidelines of APEC summit As per the official estimate, the sarin gas attacks saw more than 1,400 people suffocate to death. The incident during the conflict raging for over a decade led to global condemnation. The organisation which filed a legal complaint hailed the move. It said that this was the first time a sitting head of state had been named in an arrest warrant in another country for allegations linked to war crimes and crimes against humanity. Also read: Trudeau escorted to safety after pro-Palestinian protesters surround restaurant where he dined As quoted by Reuters, Mazen Darwish, who is the lawyer and founder of the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM), said that these are also the first international arrest warrants that have been issued over the chemical weapons attack in Ghouta. The rights group SCM filed the case in France. In total, three international warrants were also issued for the arrests of Assad's brother Maher, the chief of the Fourth Division, the Syrian army's elite military unit, and two generals. Watch this report: × A complaint was filed by SCM, Open Society Justice Initiative (OSJI) and the Syrian Archive, which is an organisation documenting human rights violations in Syria. In a statement to AFP, Darwish said that "It's a huge development" and "an independent jurisdiction is recognising that the chemical attack couldn't have happened without the knowledge of the Syrian president, that he has responsibility and should be held accountable". Notably, France can prosecute alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed anywhere in the world under the principle of universal jurisdiction. (With inputs from agencies)

France issues arrest warrant for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in historic move

China's President Xi Jinping appealed to the West to lift sanctions imposed by them on Syria and offered help to the war-ravaged country, when the Chinese president held rare talks with Syria's leader Bashar al-Assad on Friday (September 22). 
 
The meeting of the two leaders in the Chinese city of Hangzhou gave a boost to the campaign of Assad to come back to the global stage while permitting China to advance its strategic interests in the Middle East, where the country is already aligned with Saudi Arabia and Iran. 
 
"China opposes interference by external forces in Syria's internal affairs... and urges all relevant countries to lift illegal unilateral sanctions against Syria," stated a readout of the talks which was published by Chinese state media. 
 
Assad was also informed by Xi that China will extend help to Syria in countering domestic unrest and rebuilding its ruined economy and even by upgrading ties to a "strategic partnership".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-metoo-journalist-and-labour-rights-activists-secret-trial-begins-in-guangzhou-638615">China: Secret trials of #MeToo journalist and labour rights activist begin in Guangzhou</a>

The endorsement of Xi should strengthen the efforts of Assad to plot a way back from what can be called a pariah status. In 2022, Syria joined China's Belt and Road Initiative and the Arab League welcomed it back in May.

<h2>China's comprehensive strategic partnership</h2>

In the diplomatic language of China, a "strategic partnership" implies closer co-ordination on international and regional affairs, which includes the military sphere. 
 
This is one grade below what China calls a "comprehensive strategic partnership". 
 
Since the civil war started in 2011 with a crackdown on protests, killing of hundreds of people and displacement of millions, western sanctions have been steadily tightened on Syria. 
 
The government of Assad, supported by Iran and Russia, now controls most of the territory of Syria and has re-established ties with Arab neighbours, which once supported his opponents, in recent years.

WATCH |&nbsp;China working on its own maritime spy project

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Syria is in desperate need of foreign investment for its industry and infrastructure. Its dire economic situation has led to protests in southern Syria in which people appealed for the removal of the president. 
 
"China is reinforcing its message that it is there to try and help countries resolve their disputes and that peace stems from economic development," stated Matteo Legrenzi, professor of international relations at Ca'Foscari, University of Venice. 
 
"(China) is trying to perform a useful role from a distance. As they did with the Iran-Saudi Arabia rapprochement deal," he further said.

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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China's President Xi Jinping appealed to the West to lift sanctions imposed by them on Syria and offered help to the war-ravaged country, when the Chinese president held rare talks with Syria's leader Bashar al-Assad on Friday (September 22).

China's President Xi Jinping appealed to the West to lift sanctions imposed by them on Syria and offered help to the war-ravaged country, when the Chinese president held rare talks with Syria's leader Bashar al-Assad on Friday (September 22). The meeting of the two leaders in the Chinese city of Hangzhou gave a boost to the campaign of Assad to come back to the global stage while permitting China to advance its strategic interests in the Middle East, where the country is already aligned with Saudi Arabia and Iran. "China opposes interference by external forces in Syria's internal affairs... and urges all relevant countries to lift illegal unilateral sanctions against Syria," stated a readout of the talks which was published by Chinese state media. Assad was also informed by Xi that China will extend help to Syria in countering domestic unrest and rebuilding its ruined economy and even by upgrading ties to a "strategic partnership". ALSO READ | China: Secret trials of #MeToo journalist and labour rights activist begin in Guangzhou The endorsement of Xi should strengthen the efforts of Assad to plot a way back from what can be called a pariah status. In 2022, Syria joined China's Belt and Road Initiative and the Arab League welcomed it back in May. China's comprehensive strategic partnership In the diplomatic language of China, a "strategic partnership" implies closer co-ordination on international and regional affairs, which includes the military sphere. This is one grade below what China calls a "comprehensive strategic partnership". Since the civil war started in 2011 with a crackdown on protests, killing of hundreds of people and displacement of millions, western sanctions have been steadily tightened on Syria. The government of Assad, supported by Iran and Russia, now controls most of the territory of Syria and has re-established ties with Arab neighbours, which once supported his opponents, in recent years. WATCH | China working on its own maritime spy project Syria is in desperate need of foreign investment for its industry and infrastructure. Its dire economic situation has led to protests in southern Syria in which people appealed for the removal of the president. "China is reinforcing its message that it is there to try and help countries resolve their disputes and that peace stems from economic development," stated Matteo Legrenzi, professor of international relations at Ca'Foscari, University of Venice. "(China) is trying to perform a useful role from a distance. As they did with the Iran-Saudi Arabia rapprochement deal," he further said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China's Xi holds rare talks with Syria's Assad, appeals West to lift sanctions against latter

Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad is on his first official trip to China in almost two decades. Beijing has been a long time ally and Bashar Al-Assad is seeking financial support to help rebuild his devastating country.

Syria President Bashar Al-Assad visits China seeking funds on his first official trip to the country

The Arab League on Sunday welcomed back the Syrian&nbsp;government to its fold. This marks the end of more than a decade-long suspension and with this&nbsp;President Bashar al-Assad has made a return to the Arab fold after years of isolation.

In an anonymous decision, the group's foreign ministers announced that the "government delegations from the Syrian Arab Republic will resume their participation in Arab League meetings," starting Sunday.

The group's foreign ministers in their statement spoke of their "keenness to launch a leading Arab role in efforts to resolve" the Syria crisis and its "humanitarian, security and political consequences." They also noted that humanitarian aid must reach "all those in need."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arab-ministers-to-agree-on-syrias-conditional-return-to-arab-league-report-589961">Arab ministers to agree on Syria’s conditional return to Arab League: Report</a>

Furthermore, they have decided to establish a ministerial committee to continue a "direct dialogue" with the Syrian government with the aim of achieving a comprehensive solution.

As per AFP, the 22-member group had suspended Damascus' participation in&nbsp;2011 due to the nation's actions against peaceful protests that started earlier that year. These protests turned into a civil conflict and resulted&nbsp;in the death of over 500,000 individuals, the displacement of millions, and significant damage to the country's infrastructure and industry.

Ever since the war started, President Bashar al-Assad was left politically isolated. However, ahead of an Arab League summit in the Saudi city of Jeddah on May 19, recent weeks saw a flurry of diplomatic activity.

At the beginning of the conflict, a number of Arab countries severed diplomatic relations with Syria, "betting on his demise."

Others, like Qatar and Saudi Arabia as per AFP, even offered assistance to the Syrian opposition.

However, the leader "stubbornly held onto power," and even regained territory that was previously lost during the conflict. Due to this, regional capitals slowly warmed up to him. This acceptance, as per AFP, was further facilitated by the vital support provided by Iran and Russia.

The United Arab Emirates, which resumed diplomatic relations with Damascus towards the end of 2018, has reportedly been taking the lead in the recent push to reintegrate Syria into the Arab community.

An earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria on February 6th of this year further contributed to an Arab outreach to Assad's government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Arab League on Sunday welcomed back the Syrian government to its fold. This marks the end of more than a decade-long suspension and with this President Bashar al-Assad has made a return to the Arab fold after years of isolation.

The Arab League on Sunday welcomed back the Syrian government to its fold. This marks the end of more than a decade-long suspension and with this President Bashar al-Assad has made a return to the Arab fold after years of isolation. In an anonymous decision, the group's foreign ministers announced that the "government delegations from the Syrian Arab Republic will resume their participation in Arab League meetings," starting Sunday. The group's foreign ministers in their statement spoke of their "keenness to launch a leading Arab role in efforts to resolve" the Syria crisis and its "humanitarian, security and political consequences." They also noted that humanitarian aid must reach "all those in need." Also read | Arab ministers to agree on Syria’s conditional return to Arab League: Report Furthermore, they have decided to establish a ministerial committee to continue a "direct dialogue" with the Syrian government with the aim of achieving a comprehensive solution. As per AFP, the 22-member group had suspended Damascus' participation in 2011 due to the nation's actions against peaceful protests that started earlier that year. These protests turned into a civil conflict and resulted in the death of over 500,000 individuals, the displacement of millions, and significant damage to the country's infrastructure and industry. Ever since the war started, President Bashar al-Assad was left politically isolated. However, ahead of an Arab League summit in the Saudi city of Jeddah on May 19, recent weeks saw a flurry of diplomatic activity. At the beginning of the conflict, a number of Arab countries severed diplomatic relations with Syria, "betting on his demise." Others, like Qatar and Saudi Arabia as per AFP, even offered assistance to the Syrian opposition. However, the leader "stubbornly held onto power," and even regained territory that was previously lost during the conflict. Due to this, regional capitals slowly warmed up to him. This acceptance, as per AFP, was further facilitated by the vital support provided by Iran and Russia. The United Arab Emirates, which resumed diplomatic relations with Damascus towards the end of 2018, has reportedly been taking the lead in the recent push to reintegrate Syria into the Arab community. An earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria on February 6th of this year further contributed to an Arab outreach to Assad's government. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Syria returns to Arab League after 12 long years

The Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister is in Damascus, a development that hints at the possibility of ending Syria's Arab isolation in the near future. Prince Faisal bin Farhan al Saud landed in capital city Damascus on Tuesday and met with the Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. This is the first such visit by a high-ranking Saudi official since the start of the Syrian civil war.

Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrives in Syria for first time in decade

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad reached Moscow on Tuesday where he will be holding talks with his ally, Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Russia has been among the few allies of Syria during its period of political isolation and war.

The Kremlin, in its statement, confirmed that Putin and Assad will be holding talks in Moscow on Wednesday.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-refutes-allegations-of-crashing-us-drone-over-black-sea-572081">Russia refutes allegations of crashing US drone over Black Sea</a>

"Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syrian Arab Republic President Bashar Assad will hold talks in the Kremlin on March 15," the statement read.

"Topical issues of further development of Russian-Syrian co-operation in the political, trade, economic and humanitarian spheres, as well as prospects for a comprehensive settlement of the situation in and around Syria will be discussed," said the Kremlin.

Syrian president's office confirmed his arrival in Moscow and stated that Assad was received by the Russian ambassador to Damascus Alexander Yefimov and Putin's special representative Mikhail Bogdanov.

A "large ministerial delegation" accompanies Assad, stated the Syrian presidency in a statement.

A military campaign was launched by Russia in Syria in 2015 which helped in turning the civil war's tide in favour of Assad with massive aerial bombardment of areas held by the opposition.

WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons

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Since then, Moscow has expanded its military facilities in the country and built a permanent air base at Hmeymim in Latakia province, Syria.

The relations between Ankara and Damascus have been strained by the Syrian war, as the former has continued supporting the rebel groups which oppose Assad's regime.

However, analysts have stated that Moscow is making attempts to bridge the divide between the two nations.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Syrian President Bashar al-Assad reached Moscow on Tuesday where he will be holding talks with his ally, Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russia has been among the few allies of Syria during its period of political isolation and war.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad reached Moscow on Tuesday where he will be holding talks with his ally, Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russia has been among the few allies of Syria during its period of political isolation and war. The Kremlin, in its statement, confirmed that Putin and Assad will be holding talks in Moscow on Wednesday. ALSO READ | Russia refutes allegations of crashing US drone over Black Sea "Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syrian Arab Republic President Bashar Assad will hold talks in the Kremlin on March 15," the statement read. "Topical issues of further development of Russian-Syrian co-operation in the political, trade, economic and humanitarian spheres, as well as prospects for a comprehensive settlement of the situation in and around Syria will be discussed," said the Kremlin. Syrian president's office confirmed his arrival in Moscow and stated that Assad was received by the Russian ambassador to Damascus Alexander Yefimov and Putin's special representative Mikhail Bogdanov. A "large ministerial delegation" accompanies Assad, stated the Syrian presidency in a statement. A military campaign was launched by Russia in Syria in 2015 which helped in turning the civil war's tide in favour of Assad with massive aerial bombardment of areas held by the opposition. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons Since then, Moscow has expanded its military facilities in the country and built a permanent air base at Hmeymim in Latakia province, Syria. The relations between Ankara and Damascus have been strained by the Syrian war, as the former has continued supporting the rebel groups which oppose Assad's regime. However, analysts have stated that Moscow is making attempts to bridge the divide between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Syria's Assad reaches Moscow, to hold talks with Putin

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

According to reports, Russia is seeking to recruit Syrian soldiers to fight in Ukraine as fighting intensifies in various cities.

Reports claim Syrian President Bashar al-Assad may send his fighters to Ukraine. Russia has been helping the Syrian regime since 2015.&nbsp;

US officials told the Wall Street Journal that Russia has been recruiting Syrian fighters who have expertise in urban warfare. Reports say some Syrian fighters are already in Russia preparing to enter the Ukraine war amid escalation of bombing campaign in Ukrainian cities.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Putin using Syrian fighters to beat Ukraine?

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Reports claim Russia has increased shelling of cities in recent days including in Gostomel near Kyiv and Kharkiv in the east. Other cities namely Sumy, Chernihiv and Mykolayiv have also come under intense Russian fire. Several thousand people have been rendered homeless amid the Russian missile attacks with people out of power in the besieged southern port of Mariupol.

Despite the heavy bombing since February 24 when President Putin declared war on Ukraine, soldiers in Kyiv have resisted Russian attacks and it continues to remain under Ukrainian control including Kharkiv although reports say the city has been surrounded.

Russian forces have been on the offensive in the Russian-basked Donetsk and Lugansk regions even as fighting continues in Sumy city. Putin's forces have shelled Kyiv from the first day of the campaign as reports claim there is a major Russian military stationed outside the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-long-air-battle-can-ukraine-hold-out-against-russian-air-force-459873">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Can Ukraine hold out against Russian Air Force?</a>

Heavy fighting is continuing in Gostomel near Kyiv even as Ukrainian forces have reportedly destroyed several Russian military vehicles. The port city Odessa also remains under Ukraine's although Ukrainian President Zelensky said the civilian airport in Vinnytsia was destroyed by Russian rockets.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. According to reports, Russia is seeking to recruit Syrian soldiers to fight in Ukraine as fighting intensifies in various cities. Reports claim Syrian President Bashar al-Assad may send his fighters to Ukraine. Russia has been helping the Syrian regime since 2015. US officials told the Wall Street Journal that Russia has been recruiting Syrian fighters who have expertise in urban warfare. Reports say some Syrian fighters are already in Russia preparing to enter the Ukraine war amid escalation of bombing campaign in Ukrainian cities. Watch | Gravitas: Putin using Syrian fighters to beat Ukraine? Reports claim Russia has increased shelling of cities in recent days including in Gostomel near Kyiv and Kharkiv in the east. Other cities namely Sumy, Chernihiv and Mykolayiv have also come under intense Russian fire. Several thousand people have been rendered homeless amid the Russian missile attacks with people out of power in the besieged southern port of Mariupol. Despite the heavy bombing since February 24 when President Putin declared war on Ukraine, soldiers in Kyiv have resisted Russian attacks and it continues to remain under Ukrainian control including Kharkiv although reports say the city has been surrounded. Russian forces have been on the offensive in the Russian-basked Donetsk and Lugansk regions even as fighting continues in Sumy city. Putin's forces have shelled Kyiv from the first day of the campaign as reports claim there is a major Russian military stationed outside the city. Also Read in Pics: Can Ukraine hold out against Russian Air Force? Heavy fighting is continuing in Gostomel near Kyiv even as Ukrainian forces have reportedly destroyed several Russian military vehicles. The port city Odessa also remains under Ukraine's although Ukrainian President Zelensky said the civilian airport in Vinnytsia was destroyed by Russian rockets. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia seeking to recruit Syrian soldiers to fight in Ukraine: Report

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Turkish leader Recep&nbsp;Tayyip Erdogan are among the most corrupt people of the year 2021, according to the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP).

Others on the list issued by the project include Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, and disgraced Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz.

The project is a non-profit investigative news reporting platform for independent media outlets around the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-india-shouldnt-back-gangster-lukashenko-says-belarus-oppn-leader-sviatlana-tsikhanouskaya-421777">Also read |&nbsp;Exclusive: India shouldn't back ‘gangster’ Lukashenko, says Belarus oppn leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya&nbsp;</a>

It says that Ghani deserved an award because he "deserted his people leaving them to misery and death''

According to Drew Sullivan, a co-founder of OCCRP who served as a judge on the panel, ''Ghani was breath-taking in both his corruption and his gross incompetence.''

The list was compiled by a panel of six journalists and scholars who study and report on corruption.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hours-after-erdogan-rakes-up-kashmir-at-unga-india-calls-for-respecting-unsc-resolutions-on-cyprus-414898">Also read |&nbsp;Hours after Erdogan rakes up Kashmir at UNGA, India calls for respecting UNSC resolutions on Cyprus</a>

The panelists included Rawan Damen, Director General of Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ); Will Fitzgibbon, senior reporter with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ); Boyoung Lim, a senior editor at the Pulitzer Center; Louise Shelley, an author and endowed professor at the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University; Paul Radu, award-winning cross-border investigative reporter, co-founder, and Director of OCCRP; and Drew Sullivan.

"It was a banner year for corruption, but Lukashenko stood out from the crowd," said Sullivan.

Lukashenko, 67, has clung to power in Minsk since 1993, rigging elections, torturing critics, and arresting and beating protesters, all with the aid and approval of the Kremlin, reported OCCRP.

Assad led Syria into a destructive civil war and has stolen hundreds of millions of dollars while clinging to power. Erdogan has overseen a corrupt government that has laundered Chinese funds for Iranian oil using state-owned banks.&nbsp;

Kurz was the leader of the Austrian People's Party (OVP) who, along with nine other politicians and newspaper persons, was accused of embezzlement and bribery, added OCCRP.

(With inputs from agencies)

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan are among the most corrupt people of the year 2021, according to the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP).

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan are among the most corrupt people of the year 2021, according to the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). Others on the list issued by the project include Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, and disgraced Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz. The project is a non-profit investigative news reporting platform for independent media outlets around the world. Also read | Exclusive: India shouldn't back ‘gangster’ Lukashenko, says Belarus oppn leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya It says that Ghani deserved an award because he "deserted his people leaving them to misery and death'' According to Drew Sullivan, a co-founder of OCCRP who served as a judge on the panel, ''Ghani was breath-taking in both his corruption and his gross incompetence.'' The list was compiled by a panel of six journalists and scholars who study and report on corruption. Also read | Hours after Erdogan rakes up Kashmir at UNGA, India calls for respecting UNSC resolutions on Cyprus The panelists included Rawan Damen, Director General of Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ); Will Fitzgibbon, senior reporter with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ); Boyoung Lim, a senior editor at the Pulitzer Center; Louise Shelley, an author and endowed professor at the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University; Paul Radu, award-winning cross-border investigative reporter, co-founder, and Director of OCCRP; and Drew Sullivan. "It was a banner year for corruption, but Lukashenko stood out from the crowd," said Sullivan. Lukashenko, 67, has clung to power in Minsk since 1993, rigging elections, torturing critics, and arresting and beating protesters, all with the aid and approval of the Kremlin, reported OCCRP. Assad led Syria into a destructive civil war and has stolen hundreds of millions of dollars while clinging to power. Erdogan has overseen a corrupt government that has laundered Chinese funds for Iranian oil using state-owned banks. Kurz was the leader of the Austrian People's Party (OVP) who, along with nine other politicians and newspaper persons, was accused of embezzlement and bribery, added OCCRP. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexander Lukashenko, Recep Tayyip Erdogan among those named most corrupt leaders of the year

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