Syria has opened a new fuel route to Iraq, with the first 32,800-ton cargo landing at Baniyas port. Syrian officials say 77 trucks have already left Baniyas, heading for the Iraqi border. We look at what this new route means for Syria's energy trade and its economic ties with Iraq. Watch the full breakdown, and tell us in the comments what you think this route could mean going forward.


Baniyas to Baghdad: Syria's new fuel corridor to Iraq

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa told the United Nations that the Golan Heights remains Syrian territory, rejecting Colombia’s recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the strategic plateau. Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War and annexed it in 1981. The U.S. recognized Israel’s claim in 2019, while Colombia announced its recognition in August.

Al-Sharaa: Attempt to violate Syrian sovereignty will be opposed

Syria’s first-ever cohort of policewomen has graduated from a newly established police academy, marking a notable development in the country’s security and law enforcement sector. The graduating women completed their training as Syria works to build and reshape its policing institutions.

The graduation highlights the growing role of women in Syria’s police force and comes amid broader efforts to develop the country’s security services.

Damascus hosts milestone graduation for first Syrian female officers

A series of explosions in northern Syria's Aleppo province left at least four people injured, prompting local authorities to issue an urgent safety warning. Aleppo's governor urged residents to remain inside their homes as emergency teams assessed the situation. The cause of the blasts remains unclear, raising fresh concerns in a region that continues to face security challenges years after Syria's civil war began.

Mystery explosions rock Aleppo, residents told to stay indoors

An elderly Syrian man named Mustafa Alwan (known as Abu Bilal) broke through a secret wall in his home to recover hundreds of books hidden for 15 years.

Man breaks open wall hiding hundreds of books since 15 years

The UN nuclear watchdog, IAEA, has confirmed that Syria was constructing an undeclared nuclear reactor in Deir ez-Zor during the Assad era. Inspectors also identified around 73 tonnes of natural uranium at a related site, with the material now under IAEA monitoring.


UN nuclear watchdog report on Syria confirms Assad-Era nuclear reactor plan

U.S. envoy Tom Barrack has welcomed the reported dissolution of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), describing the move as an important step toward a new political and security arrangement in Syria. The development could reshape relations between Kurdish-led forces, Damascus and Washington.


Kurdish SDF fighters to merge into Syrian army, US backs the move

Amid growing bonhomie between Trump and Al-Sharaa, U.S. has delisted Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism. U.S. has linked this move to the Syrian government's counter-terrorism efforts against ISIS and other groups.


America's stunning Syria U-turn: From terror list to US partner

The United States has formally removed Syria from its State Sponsors of Terrorism list, ending a designation that had remained in place since 1979. The decision marks a major shift in Washington's relationship with Damascus and could remove a significant barrier to foreign investment, banking and economic reconstruction. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the move recognised steps by President Ahmed al-Sharaa's government to distance Syria from international terrorism.


US removes Syria from terror sponsor list, Al-Sharaa hails the move

The United States removed Syria from the list of “State Sponsors of Terrorism”, a decision Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa hailed as “historic”. Syria had been placed on the list of "State Sponsors of Terrorism" in 1979, imposing significant restrictions on trade, investment and finance. The removal came on Monday after a 45-day congressional review period, triggered after the US President notified Congress on July 8 about his intention to rescind the label. The announcement also revoked the designation of al-Nusrah Front, the rebel group led by Al-Sharaa, as a “terrorist” organisation.&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the decision came after the "positive action" taken and “further commitments” by Al-Sharaa to fully distance Syria from international terrorism. Al-Sharaa welcomed the decision in a post on the social media platform X.&nbsp;“I congratulate the Syrian people on the official removal of Syria's name from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, and I thank His Excellency President Donald Trump for this historic decision, as well as all the brothers and friends who stood with Syria and the Syrians.” &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-us-iran-sanctions-tehran-fully-prepared-1787656676823">China warns US as Iran sanctions widen; Tehran says it is 'fully prepared'</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">أهنئ الشعب السوري بإزالة اسم سورية رسميًا من قائمة الدول الراعية للإرهاب، وأشكر فخامة الرئيس دونالد ترامب على هذا القرار التاريخي، وكل الأشقاء والأصدقاء الذين وقفوا مع سورية والسوريين. <a href="https://t.co/Nw6B0VROEN">pic.twitter.com/Nw6B0VROEN</a>&mdash; أحمد الشرع (@AH_AlSharaa) <a href="https://x.com/AH_AlSharaa/status/2092011946715328712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What does this mean for Syria?</h2>The removal of Syria from the “State Sponsors of Terrorism” list paves the way for international legitimacy for Syria. This frees Syria from restrictions imposed by the Terrorism List Governments Sanctions Regulation. It also extends a vote of confidence to foster commercial investment and restore political and economic stability. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani said that removing this "last obstacle" would help Syria connect to the global financial and economic system and boost investment. "There is ​no longer any obstacle to investment, doing business and rebuilding economic life in Syria," he said. Only Cuba, Iran and North Korea remain on that list.&nbsp;

The US has removed Syria from its State Sponsors of Terrorism list, a move hailed as historic by President Ahmed al-Sharaa and expected to boost investment.

The United States removed Syria from the list of “State Sponsors of Terrorism”, a decision Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa hailed as “historic”. Syria had been placed on the list of "State Sponsors of Terrorism" in 1979, imposing significant restrictions on trade, investment and finance. The removal came on Monday after a 45-day congressional review period, triggered after the US President notified Congress on July 8 about his intention to rescind the label. The announcement also revoked the designation of al-Nusrah Front, the rebel group led by Al-Sharaa, as a “terrorist” organisation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the decision came after the "positive action" taken and “further commitments” by Al-Sharaa to fully distance Syria from international terrorism. Al-Sharaa welcomed the decision in a post on the social media platform X. “I congratulate the Syrian people on the official removal of Syria's name from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, and I thank His Excellency President Donald Trump for this historic decision, as well as all the brothers and friends who stood with Syria and the Syrians.” Also Read: China warns US as Iran sanctions widen; Tehran says it is 'fully prepared'

The US has removed Syria from its State Sponsors of Terrorism list, a move hailed as historic by President Ahmed al-Sharaa and expected to boost investment.

US removes Syria from State Sponsors of Terrorism list: What it means for Damascus

In a landmark policy shift, the United States has officially removed Syria from its list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, ending a designation that had been in place since 1979. The move follows a 45-day congressional review period after President Donald Trump notified Congress of his intent to delist Syria. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa hailed the decision as "historic," saying it will support reconstruction efforts after years of war. The move could open the door to investment, financial transactions and economic recovery as Damascus seeks a fresh start on the global stage.

US removes Syria from terror list: Trump ends 47-year designation

Syria has urged Israel to alter its regional security policy, calling for a new bilateral security agreement centered on full state sovereignty and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from territory seized following the fall of the Assad regime. Amid high-level, U.S.-mediated de-escalation talks in Jordan following recent airstrikes. 


Syria wants Israel to change policy, seeks new security agreement

Syria's central government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces have completed a landmark agreement to integrate civilian institutions and military structures in the northeast into the Syrian state. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi and President Ahmed al-Sharaa finalized the terms after months of tensions, clashes and negotiations, marking a major step toward consolidating Syria's post-Assad power structure.


Abdi seeks Kurdish rights through Syria's new constitution

Syria's central government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces have completed a landmark agreement to integrate civilian institutions and military structures in the northeast into the Syrian state. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi and President Ahmed al-Sharaa finalized the terms after months of tensions, clashes and negotiations, marking a major step toward consolidating Syria's post-Assad power structure.

Kurdish forces move closer to Syria's central government

Israel has justified its strike on a Syrian airbase, saying the operation was aimed at preventing Turkish troops from establishing a military presence there. The development highlights growing tensions involving Israel, Turkey and Syria, as regional powers seek to expand their military influence and security presence.


Israel-Turkey tensions: Netanyahu says won't tolerate Turkish military presence in Syria

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Turkey of seeking a military foothold in Syria, warning that any Turkish military entrenchment threatening Israel will not be tolerated. The remarks came after Israel struck Syria's Abu al-Duhur airbase, which Israeli officials said could be used by Turkish forces. Reports also indicate that Mossad chief Roman Gofman raised concerns about Turkey's growing military role in Syria during contacts with Syrian officials.


Netanyahu warns Turkey over Syria, signals red line on military presence 

Israel strikes Syrian airbase: Israeli strike triggers backlash from Turkey, ally US

The Head of Israel's Mossad spy agency, Roman Gofman, had a phone call with Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani on August 14, 2026, to discuss Turkey's military buildup in Syria days before Israel launched targeted airstrikes, Reuters reported. This is the highest-level contact yet between Israel and the new Syrian ​government since the fall of the former dictator Bashar al-Assad in December ​2014.Early Tuesday, an Israeli aircraft carried out eight airstrikes targeting the runway of Abu al-Duhur Military Airbase in the eastern countryside of Idlib in northern Syria. The strikes caused material damage to the structures at the airbase, but did not result in any casualties.The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office noted that Syria was on the verge of breaching a mutual security status quo by allowing Turkish troops to deploy at the northern base. Netanyahu stated on a podcast that Israel will not tolerate a Turkish military buildup "that descends south because it threatens us"Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemen-warns-houthis-foothold-bab-el-mandeb-strait-1787155866625">Yemen warns Houthis seek foothold near Bab el-Mandeb Strait</a>Turkey on Wednesday strongly denied these allegations that it posed a threat by preparing to send troops to a base in Syria. "The frivolous allegations put forward by the Israeli Prime Minister's office aim to legitimise Israel's unlawful airstrikes targeting Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity," it said. &nbsp;US envoy Tom Barrack called Israel’s strikes on Syria an “unnecessary escalation” and called for de-escalation between Israel and Syria.Turkey is a NATO ally of the United States. But Israel has tense relations with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has vociferously denounced Israel and maintains a total embargo on Israel. But it serves as the vital transit hub for the Azerbaijani oil that fuels Israel’s economy and military. It also collects a lucrative transit fee for every barrel of oil that passes through the Ceyhan terminal.&nbsp;

Mossad chief Roman Golfman spoke with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani days before Israel launched airstrikes in Syria.

The Head of Israel's Mossad spy agency, Roman Gofman, had a phone call with Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani on August 14, 2026, to discuss Turkey's military buildup in Syria days before Israel launched targeted airstrikes, Reuters reported. This is the highest-level contact yet between Israel and the new Syrian government since the fall of the former dictator Bashar al-Assad in December 2014. Early Tuesday, an Israeli aircraft carried out eight airstrikes targeting the runway of Abu al-Duhur Military Airbase in the eastern countryside of Idlib in northern Syria. The strikes caused material damage to the structures at the airbase, but did not result in any casualties. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office noted that Syria was on the verge of breaching a mutual security status quo by allowing Turkish troops to deploy at the northern base. Netanyahu stated on a podcast that Israel will not tolerate a Turkish military buildup "that descends south because it threatens us" Also Read: Yemen warns Houthis seek foothold near Bab el-Mandeb Strait Turkey on Wednesday strongly denied these allegations that it posed a threat by preparing to send troops to a base in Syria. "The frivolous allegations put forward by the Israeli Prime Minister's office aim to legitimise Israel's unlawful airstrikes targeting Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity," it said. US envoy Tom Barrack called Israel’s strikes on Syria an “unnecessary escalation” and called for de-escalation between Israel and Syria. Turkey is a NATO ally of the United States. But Israel has tense relations with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has vociferously denounced Israel and maintains a total embargo on Israel. But it serves as the vital transit hub for the Azerbaijani oil that fuels Israel’s economy and military. It also collects a lucrative transit fee for every barrel of oil that passes through the Ceyhan terminal.

Mossad chief Roman Golfman spoke with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani days before Israel launched airstrikes in Syria.

Mossad chief spoke to Syria foreign minister before Israeli strikes on Syria

Israel's latest strike on a Syrian airbase has triggered sharp criticism from Turkey and concern in Washington, adding a new layer of tension to an already volatile region. With the Gaza conflict unresolved and reports of friction between Benjamin Netanyahu and key allies, questions are growing over whether security threats could influence Israel's upcoming election campaign.


Israel attacks Syria & riles up Turkey, as Lebanon & Gaza remain unsolved 

UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi said on Tuesday that his agency found several tonnes of nuclear materials at a previously undeclared site dating from the rule of Syria’s previous government.Addressing a joint press conference with Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Damascus, the ⁠ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief said, “After your courageous decision to inform us that there was another place, another site where nuclear material had been stored, we were able to access this place... we are talking about a few tonnes of nuclear material that could be put to bad use.&nbsp;&nbsp;Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said UN atomic watchdog chief Rafael Grossi visited a site containing nuclear materials in the country, and his agency collected samples.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-won-both-war-and-diplomacy-araghchi-says-conflict-completely-dispelled-notion-of-tehran-s-weakness-1787060840037">‘Iran won both war and diplomacy’: Araghchi says conflict ‘completely dispelled’ notion of Tehran’s weakness</a>&nbsp;“On July 17, we sent an official letter to the agency, in which we declared of our own free will the presence of nuclear materials at an undeclared site within the legacy left by the former regime,” Shaibani said at the press conference, adding that Grossi and the agency team completed their site visit this morning and collected the necessary samples.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I’m currently in Syria, in the context of ongoing cooperation with the Syrian Government to clarify and resolve outstanding safeguards issues related to implementing its NPT Safeguards Agreement with the IAEA. We conducted the following activities: •⁠ ⁠Deir Ez-Zor site:… <a href="https://t.co/unvDU7J6uB">pic.twitter.com/unvDU7J6uB</a>&mdash; Rafael Mariano Grossi (@rafaelmgrossi) <a href="https://x.com/rafaelmgrossi/status/2089726053115715839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-t-beg-pakistan-strictly-warns-its-umrah-pilgrims-tells-them-to-fully-comply-with-saudi-laws-1786991746961">‘Don’t beg,’ Pakistan strictly warns its Umrah pilgrims, tells them to fully comply with Saudi laws</a>&nbsp;The nuclear material was not dangerous and would remain in Syrian custody, subject to the IAEA’s guarantees, he added.Asaad al-Shibani added that Syria has the right to use the material for civil and peaceful purposes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-rejects-trump-s-renewed-appeal-to-block-e-jean-carroll-award-1786975184644">Supreme Court rejects Trump’s renewed appeal to block E. Jean Carroll award</a>&nbsp;After the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Syria’s new authorities have committed to working with the United Nations’ nuclear ⁠watchdog to address the nuclear activities during decades of Assad family rule.&nbsp;Syria is not known to hold operational stockpiles ⁠of nuclear material for a weapons programme, but Israel bombed a suspected ⁠Syrian nuclear reactor in 2007 in the country’s eastern province of Deir al-Zor.

After the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Syria’s new authorities have committed to working with the United Nations’ nuclear ⁠watchdog to address the nuclear activities during decades of Assad family rule. The nuclear material was not dangerous.

UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi said on Tuesday that his agency found several tonnes of nuclear materials at a previously undeclared site dating from the rule of Syria’s previous government. Addressing a joint press conference with Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Damascus, the ⁠ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief said, “After your courageous decision to inform us that there was another place, another site where nuclear material had been stored, we were able to access this place... we are talking about a few tonnes of nuclear material that could be put to bad use. Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said UN atomic watchdog chief Rafael Grossi visited a site containing nuclear materials in the country, and his agency collected samples. Also Read: ‘Iran won both war and diplomacy’: Araghchi says conflict ‘completely dispelled’ notion of Tehran’s weakness “On July 17, we sent an official letter to the agency, in which we declared of our own free will the presence of nuclear materials at an undeclared site within the legacy left by the former regime,” Shaibani said at the press conference, adding that Grossi and the agency team completed their site visit this morning and collected the necessary samples.

After the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Syria’s new authorities have committed to working with the United Nations’ nuclear ⁠watchdog to address the nuclear activities during decades of Assad family rule. The nuclear material was not dangerous.

IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says agency found ‘tonnes of nuclear material’ in Syria

US envoy for Syria Tom Barrack said that the Israeli strike on Syria was an “unnecessary escalation” and does not advance "regional stability”. He claimed that Syrian leader President Ahmad al-Sharaa has neither “adopted a predatory posture nor maintained proxy forces” and has expressed willingness for de-escalation with Israel.&nbsp;"The Al-Sharaa government has neither adopted a predatory posture nor maintained proxy forces. It has, in fact, repeatedly indicated a preference for de-escalation with Israel. The United States has in the past, and will continue in the future, to host discussions to encourage diplomatic cadence over kinetic frustration for both nations," wrote Barack in a social media post.Early Tuesday, an Israeli aircraft carried out eight airstrikes targeting the runway of Abu al-Duhur Military Airbase in the eastern countryside of Idlib in northern Syria. The strikes caused material damage to the structures at the airbase, but did not result in any casualties.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-strait-of-hormuz-new-us-territory-iran-response-1787055242747">Trump declares Strait of Hormuz ‘new US territory’; Iran mocks ‘delusion’, vows to keep waterway closed</a>There had been no official statement from Israel on the attack. US President Donald Trump has previously praised Syrian interim President Ahmed Al-Sharra over the dramatic transformation. He called him a "great leader" who has done an "amazing job of pulling the country together" since the fall of the Assad regime. During the G7 summit, Trump suggested that Israel let Syria take care of Hezbollah; he thinks they'd do a better job of doing it.The base, about 70 km from the Turkish border, has been out of service as a dedicated military airfield since 2013 ​and changed hands several times during Syria’s 14-year civil war between forces loyal to former President Bashar al-Assad and opposition factions. Since Assad was ousted, the base has been used as a training centre for Syria’s new army, Reuters reported, citing military sources. Earlier in August, in an overnight briefing with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz had warned that Israel will not tolerate steps by Turkey or Damascus to rebuild a Syrian air force.&nbsp; &nbsp;

US envoy Tom Barrack calls Israel’s strikes on Syria an “unnecessary escalation” as Washington backs de-escalation between Israel and Damascus.

US envoy for Syria Tom Barrack said that the Israeli strike on Syria was an “unnecessary escalation” and does not advance "regional stability”. He claimed that Syrian leader President Ahmad al-Sharaa has neither “adopted a predatory posture nor maintained proxy forces” and has expressed willingness for de-escalation with Israel. "The Al-Sharaa government has neither adopted a predatory posture nor maintained proxy forces. It has, in fact, repeatedly indicated a preference for de-escalation with Israel. The United States has in the past, and will continue in the future, to host discussions to encourage diplomatic cadence over kinetic frustration for both nations," wrote Barack in a social media post. Early Tuesday, an Israeli aircraft carried out eight airstrikes targeting the runway of Abu al-Duhur Military Airbase in the eastern countryside of Idlib in northern Syria. The strikes caused material damage to the structures at the airbase, but did not result in any casualties. Also Read: Trump declares Strait of Hormuz ‘new US territory’; Iran mocks ‘delusion’, vows to keep waterway closed There had been no official statement from Israel on the attack. US President Donald Trump has previously praised Syrian interim President Ahmed Al-Sharra over the dramatic transformation. He called him a "great leader" who has done an "amazing job of pulling the country together" since the fall of the Assad regime. During the G7 summit, Trump suggested that Israel let Syria take care of Hezbollah; he thinks they'd do a better job of doing it. The base, about 70 km from the Turkish border, has been out of service as a dedicated military airfield since 2013 and changed hands several times during Syria’s 14-year civil war between forces loyal to former President Bashar al-Assad and opposition factions. Since Assad was ousted, the base has been used as a training centre for Syria’s new army, Reuters reported, citing military sources. Earlier in August, in an overnight briefing with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz had warned that Israel will not tolerate steps by Turkey or Damascus to rebuild a Syrian air force.

US envoy Tom Barrack calls Israel’s strikes on Syria an “unnecessary escalation” as Washington backs de-escalation between Israel and Damascus.

Israel strikes Syrian airbase; US calls strikes an ‘unnecessary escalation’

A criminal court in Damascus has sentenced ousted Syrian president Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia. Following a landmark trial examining the atrocities of Syria's nearly 14-year civil war, the court convicted Assad, his brother Maher al-Assad, and several former security officials on charges including premeditated murder, torture, arbitrary detention, and crimes against humanity.


Damascus court delivers verdict against Bashar al-Assad | Syria sentences ousted ruler to death

According to a report, U.S. has brokered a deal whereby IAEA will soon remove nuclear material stored at a clandestine site in Syria. This material was reportedly moved from the Al-Kibar facility which was bombed by Israel in 2007.


Syria's nuclear material to be removed in US-brokered deal, report says

A Syrian court has sentenced ousted dictator Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia, after convicting him of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity during the country's civil war.

It is the first conviction against Assad, who fled from Damascus to the Russian capital, Moscow, with his family after his regime was overthrown in December 2024, ending his family's five-decade grip on power.

Bashar Al Assad faces death sentence in Syria, while living in Russia  

Syria and Russia have arrived at an agreement over the future of the two strategic Mediterranean coastal bases that ultimately ends their use as military outposts for Moscow, Syria’s Foreign Ministry said on Sunday.The Syrian Foreign Ministry announced that the two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) after 18 months of negotiations.&nbsp;Under the new agreement, Russian forces in Syria will give up control of two strategic bases on the Mediterranean coast, which will be used as joint Russia-Syrian training centres. The deal effectively means Russia will no longer have military outposts in the Arab country.&nbsp;Russia used the bases to provide military support to former Syrian leader Bashar Assad during Syria’s 13-year civil war that ended in 2024.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-moots-rail-link-to-india-as-strait-of-hormuz-disruptions-threaten-trade-1786293938790">Russia moots rail link to India as Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten trade</a><h2>Syria to take over management of Hmeimim airport, Tartus port</h2>&nbsp;Syria will take over management of the Hmeimim airport and the commercial berth at Tartus port, Syria’s Foreign Ministry said.&nbsp;The bases would be converted into “joint training and capacity-building centres, within new arrangements that preserve mutual interests,” said state media, citing the ministry.&nbsp;The facilities will be gradually integrated into the country’s civilian administration. The transition is expected to be completed within three months, the ministry said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lashkar-commander-dies-mysteriously-at-islamabad-mosque-entrance-after-eating-at-unfamiliar-eatery-1786282982661">Lashkar commander dies ‘mysteriously’ at Islamabad mosque entrance after eating at ‘unfamiliar’ eatery</a>&nbsp;Russia was the political and military ally of ousted President Bashar Assad from 2011 to 2024 when Syria fought an Islamist-led armed opposition of which current interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa was a prominent militant leader.&nbsp;<h2>Military facilities at both sites to become joint training centres</h2>&nbsp;Throughout the conflict, the Hmeimem air base near Latakia and the Tartus naval base were key Russian outposts in the eastern Mediterranean. Syria will now take control of the Hmeimem air base and the commercial berth at Tartus port as part of its civil administration.&nbsp;&nbsp;The military facilities at both sites will become “joint training and qualification centres,” the Foreign Ministry said.&nbsp;The new arrangements represent a “reorganizing of the Russian presence” along Syria’s coast, the ministry said.&nbsp;Moscow did not interfere during the lightning insurgency that led to the overthrow of Assad, but it provided asylum to the longtime Syrian leader and his family. After Assad’s ouster, remaining Russian troops in Syria gradually left the country.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-israel-rejects-board-of-peace-plan-for-gaza-disarmament-1786276611175">Netanyahu says Israel rejects Board of Peace plan for Gaza disarmament</a>&nbsp;Syria’s new leadership aims to maintain strong bilateral ties with Moscow. Al-Sharaa has visited President Vladimir Putin in Moscow twice since taking power, with the two Mediterranean bases being key points of discussion. Russia also wanted to protect the future of the only two official Russian military bases located outside the former Soviet Union.&nbsp;Since Assad’s ouster, Syria has also bolstered its ties with the United States, Europe, and neighbouring Arab countries that had cut ties with Damascus during Assad’s crackdown on protests.&nbsp;&nbsp;After Assad’s ouster, Russian troops remaining in Syria gradually left the country except for those stationed at the bases.&nbsp;The Syrian government has been demanding that Moscow extradite Assad.

Syria will take over management of the Hmeimim airport and the commercial berth at Tartus port and the bases would be converted into joint training and capacity-building centres. The transition is expected to be completed within three months, the Syrian foreign ministry said.

Syria and Russia have arrived at an agreement over the future of the two strategic Mediterranean coastal bases that ultimately ends their use as military outposts for Moscow, Syria’s Foreign Ministry said on Sunday. The Syrian Foreign Ministry announced that the two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) after 18 months of negotiations. Under the new agreement, Russian forces in Syria will give up control of two strategic bases on the Mediterranean coast, which will be used as joint Russia-Syrian training centres. The deal effectively means Russia will no longer have military outposts in the Arab country. Russia used the bases to provide military support to former Syrian leader Bashar Assad during Syria’s 13-year civil war that ended in 2024. Also Read: Russia moots rail link to India as Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten trade Syria to take over management of Hmeimim airport, Tartus port Syria will take over management of the Hmeimim airport and the commercial berth at Tartus port, Syria’s Foreign Ministry said. The bases would be converted into “joint training and capacity-building centres, within new arrangements that preserve mutual interests,” said state media, citing the ministry. The facilities will be gradually integrated into the country’s civilian administration. The transition is expected to be completed within three months, the ministry said. Also Read: Lashkar commander dies ‘mysteriously’ at Islamabad mosque entrance after eating at ‘unfamiliar’ eatery Russia was the political and military ally of ousted President Bashar Assad from 2011 to 2024 when Syria fought an Islamist-led armed opposition of which current interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa was a prominent militant leader. Military facilities at both sites to become joint training centres Throughout the conflict, the Hmeimem air base near Latakia and the Tartus naval base were key Russian outposts in the eastern Mediterranean. Syria will now take control of the Hmeimem air base and the commercial berth at Tartus port as part of its civil administration. The military facilities at both sites will become “joint training and qualification centres,” the Foreign Ministry said. The new arrangements represent a “reorganizing of the Russian presence” along Syria’s coast, the ministry said. Moscow did not interfere during the lightning insurgency that led to the overthrow of Assad, but it provided asylum to the longtime Syrian leader and his family. After Assad’s ouster, remaining Russian troops in Syria gradually left the country. Also Read: Netanyahu says Israel rejects Board of Peace plan for Gaza disarmament Syria’s new leadership aims to maintain strong bilateral ties with Moscow. Al-Sharaa has visited President Vladimir Putin in Moscow twice since taking power, with the two Mediterranean bases being key points of discussion. Russia also wanted to protect the future of the only two official Russian military bases located outside the former Soviet Union. Since Assad’s ouster, Syria has also bolstered its ties with the United States, Europe, and neighbouring Arab countries that had cut ties with Damascus during Assad’s crackdown on protests. After Assad’s ouster, Russian troops remaining in Syria gradually left the country except for those stationed at the bases. The Syrian government has been demanding that Moscow extradite Assad.

Syria will take over management of the Hmeimim airport and the commercial berth at Tartus port and the bases would be converted into joint training and capacity-building centres. The transition is expected to be completed within three months, the Syrian foreign ministry said.

Syria and Russia reach deal; Damascus to take over two Mediterranean bases

Global tensions remain high as Iran says it has halted retaliatory attacks after the United States paused its airstrikes for two consecutive nights, raising hopes of a possible diplomatic breakthrough. At the same time, Yemen's Houthi rebels claim they have downed a Saudi drone and intensified attacks on Saudi targets, keeping pressure on regional security.

Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine war continues to widen, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accusing Moscow of providing satellite intelligence to Iran for attacks on U.S. military bases and Gulf facilities. Romania has summoned Russia's ambassador after another drone incident near its border with Ukraine, while India has issued a fresh advisory urging its citizens to carefully evaluate security risks before accepting jobs on commercial vessels operating in or passing through the Black Sea.

Elsewhere, rescue teams continue searching for missing crew members after a Vietnamese vessel carrying 62 people sank in the South China Sea. In Europe, Spain is battling rapidly spreading wildfires fueled by extreme heat and strong winds, forcing emergency firefighting operations. Iraq has also approved a memorandum with Syria to build a new oil pipeline linking Iraqi oil fields to Mediterranean export terminals, aiming to diversify export routes and reduce dependence on the Strait of Hormuz.

Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage of the latest developments in global conflicts, diplomacy, energy security, maritime safety, climate disasters, and international affairs.

Iran-US Conflict Update | Houthis Target Saudi Arabia | Ukraine Accuses Russia | Spain Wildfires

The World's Most Livable Cities 2026 ranking has been revealed, with Copenhagen, Denmark securing the top spot, followed by Vienna and Melbourne. The list highlights cities offering the best quality of life, while Damascus, Syria ranks as the least livable city, followed by Tripoli and Dhaka. Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru also feature in the global rankings.

World's most livable cities 2026: Copenhagen tops, Damascus ranks last 

New violence shook the Middle East early Monday as the United States announced another wave of attacks on Iran, Kuwait said it was intercepting drones and Tehran's Revolutionary Guards claimed to have hit an "enemy command centre" in Syria.

Bahrain's interior ministry also said that its air raid sirens had sounded and urged citizens and residents to head to "the nearest safe place".

US says strikes 'punish' Iran for killing three soldiers

As tensions reach a boiling point, U.S. forces have conducted a sixth consecutive night of airstrikes across southern Iran, specifically targeting critical transportation infrastructure. Iranian state media reports that at least five bridges—including key logistical routes like the Gariveh and Kahurestan bridges—were struck, severely impacting internal mobility.

Iran reports several killed in strikes that hit 5 bridges 

In today's top world headlines, India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval urged stronger BIMSTEC cooperation to address shared security and economic challenges, including global supply chain disruptions. Iran warned that any U.S. interference in the Strait of Hormuz would cross a "red line," while explosions were reported near Iran's Jabar Port amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. Israel reaffirmed its military presence in security zones across Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, and Russian ballistic missile strikes killed civilians in Kyiv. Meanwhile, Toronto recorded the world's worst air quality due to wildfire smoke, Indian stock markets traded flat after a volatile session, and Zee Group Chairman Dr. Subhash Chandra announced the establishment of Sri Nand Kishor Goenka University in Hisar.

Iran threatens U.S. | BIMSTEC summit | Toronto air quality worsens | Kyiv missile attack | WION News

In a major geopolitical shift, the United States, Iraq, and Syria are reportedly finalizing a deal to restore the historic 800-kilometer Kirkuk-Baniyas oil pipeline. The project, dormant for decades and severely damaged since the 2003 Iraq war, is expected to be unveiled next week during Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s White House meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.  


Reports: US, Iraq & Syria move to revive historic Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline to bypass Hormuz

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