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

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack fundamentally changed Israel's security doctrine. Israel now insists on maintaining buffer zones inside Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syria, arguing they are essential to prevent future attacks. While Israeli leaders say the policy is about national security, critics accuse Israel of prolonged military occupation and violating neighboring countries' sovereignty.

Israel says October 7 changed everything, Netanyahu defends buffer zones in Gaza, Lebanon & Syria

A new flashpoint is forming in the Middle East. Israel has warned about Turkish military expansion in Syria, calling it a direct threat to its security. Officials say Ankara is building a bigger presence near Israel’s northern border, raising fears of a potential confrontation. Syria, already devastated by years of war, is now caught between two regional powers. Analysts say this could open a new battlefront. 


Israel threatens response if Turkey builds Syria bases

Israel warns of Turkish military expansion in Syria

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that he wants to remove Syria from the terrorism list. Sitting alongside Syrian President Ahmed ​al-Sharaa in Ankara, Trump responded to a reporter's question by praising his Syrian counterpart, “I think I will.” The US have previously considered removing Syria's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, which had halted its integration into the international system, like US foreign aid, defence exports, and certain financial transactions.“Why wouldn’t I? He’s done a great job,” said Trump, referring to Al Sharaa, who is a formerly designated terrorist by the US State Department. Trump said that Syria has become stable, "It's really been stabilised, and we're proud of that." Trump said that they have lifted sanctions from the country, which had been a “big boost”. Trump praised Syrian history and civilisation, calling it the greatest not just in the Middle East but in the whole world, saying that it had great culture, professors, and lawyers, and then it went through a terrible period of time from which al-Sharaa had been able to rescue it within a period of one and a half years or less.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ukraine-patriot-air-defence-production-licence-nato-summit-1783517758092">Big win for Zelensky? Trump announces Patriot production license for Ukraine</a>"He's done a really fantastic job as president. He's unified the country in a very short period of time," said the US president, referring to the Syrian President as a "strong person" and respected by everybody.A bipartisan group of lawmakers have previously written to the US President Donald Trump seeking its removal from the terrorism list, largely being influenced by its rapid integration with the West-dominated system. Roughly 90 per cent of Syrians live in poverty, while rebuilding the country following a decade of civil war will require an estimated $216 billion.Trump further suggested that Syria will assist in dealing with Hezbollah, “They could help. We'll find out. I think we're making a lot of progress.” He also claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is getting along well with Lebanon and wants to withdraw military forces from Lebanon.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump during the joint press conference with President Ahmed al-Sharaa: We lifted the sanctions on the country, and that was, in my opinion, a tremendous boost. The sanctions were a very significant matter, and we’re proud of the work he’s doing. Syria has become… I… <a href="https://t.co/Mdw5Vscv94">pic.twitter.com/Mdw5Vscv94</a>&mdash; Nedal Al-Amari 🇸🇾 (@nedalalamari) <a href="https://x.com/nedalalamari/status/2074868659030221295?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Donald Trump said he wants to remove Syria from the US terrorism list, praising Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and citing the country's growing stability.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that he wants to remove Syria from the terrorism list. Sitting alongside Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Ankara, Trump responded to a reporter's question by praising his Syrian counterpart, “I think I will.” The US have previously considered removing Syria's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, which had halted its integration into the international system, like US foreign aid, defence exports, and certain financial transactions. “Why wouldn’t I? He’s done a great job,” said Trump, referring to Al Sharaa, who is a formerly designated terrorist by the US State Department. Trump said that Syria has become stable, "It's really been stabilised, and we're proud of that." Trump said that they have lifted sanctions from the country, which had been a “big boost”. Trump praised Syrian history and civilisation, calling it the greatest not just in the Middle East but in the whole world, saying that it had great culture, professors, and lawyers, and then it went through a terrible period of time from which al-Sharaa had been able to rescue it within a period of one and a half years or less. Also Read: Big win for Zelensky? Trump announces Patriot production license for Ukraine "He's done a really fantastic job as president. He's unified the country in a very short period of time," said the US president, referring to the Syrian President as a "strong person" and respected by everybody. A bipartisan group of lawmakers have previously written to the US President Donald Trump seeking its removal from the terrorism list, largely being influenced by its rapid integration with the West-dominated system. Roughly 90 per cent of Syrians live in poverty, while rebuilding the country following a decade of civil war will require an estimated $216 billion. Trump further suggested that Syria will assist in dealing with Hezbollah, “They could help. We'll find out. I think we're making a lot of progress.” He also claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is getting along well with Lebanon and wants to withdraw military forces from Lebanon.

Donald Trump said he wants to remove Syria from the US terrorism list, praising Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and citing the country's growing stability.

Trump says ​al-Sharaa has done a 'fantastic job,' hints at removing Syria from terror list

Chaos in Damascus. Two bombs exploded near a hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron had spent the night, killing 4 people including police officers and wounding 18. Macron’s motorcade had left just before the blasts. He went ahead with the visit and met Syria’s President Ahmad al-Sharaa at the palace, in the first EU leader visit since Assad’s fall. France called Syria a "primary partner" for rebuilding. But the attack shows how fragile security still is after 13 years of war. Roads were sealed, security was tight, and a country trying to heal was shaken again.


Damascus blast: Explosions struck near hotel where President Macron held meeting

Damascus explosion: Two bombs hit Damascus hotel area during Macron’s historic Syria visit

French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived in Damascus, marking the first visit by a Western European head of state since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024. During this historic trip, Macron and Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa are holding high-stakes talks centered on political transition, regional security, and economic cooperation.


France's Macron And Syria's Al-Sharaa Hold High-Stakes Talks Amid His Historic Visit

A bomb blast at a cafe in central Damascus on Thursday killed nine people and wounded 20 others, Syria's interior ministry ​said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Syrian state television said an explosive ‌device had been planted at the cafe, near the Palace of Justice in the centre of the capital.

Syria explosion: Nine killed, 20 injured in Damascus bomb blast

Raging wildfires tear through Syria’s northeastern countryside, forcing desperate residents and local farmers onto the front lines to protect what remains of their harvest. Armed only with water hoses and clothing, locals struggle to contain the advancing flames before the nation's critical wheat fields are entirely consumed.

Wildfires Engulf Wheat Fields Across Syria

Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa snubbed U.S. President Donald Trump's suggestion of initiating military action against Hezbollah. Trump had floated this idea after expressing his frustration over Israel's approach towards Hezbollah. Speaking to the media, Al-Sharaa made it clear that the solution to the Lebanon crisis doesn't lie in bombing of cities.


Syria's President Al-Sharaa Snubs Trump, Rules Out Military Action Against Hezbollah

US President Donald Trump’s proposal for Syria to take over the fight against Hezbollah has hit a major roadblock. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has explicitly ruled out deploying Syrian troops to fight Hezbollah, stating that the crisis in Lebanon cannot be solved through war.


Trump's Plan to Let Syria Handle Hezbollah in Trouble, Al-Sharaa Refuses to Fight

Iraq and Syria have reportedly closed their airspace following Iran’s missile attack on Israel, as regional tensions continue to escalate. The precautionary move comes amid renewed Iran–Israel hostilities that have disrupted civilian air routes and heightened security concerns across the Middle East.


Israel-Iran War: Iraq, Syria Close Airspace After Iran Attacks Israel

Syria’s skies are witnessing a revival after years of Civil War and global isolation.  A surge in air traffic is turning the country into an important aviation corridor as airlines reshape routes to avoid airspace disrupted by the conflict in West Asia.  


Iran War Creates Unexpected Windfall as Syria's Airspace Traffic Soars

#Gravitas Syria’s skies are witnessing a revival after years of Civil War and global isolation.  A surge in air traffic is turning the country into an important aviation corridor as airlines reshape routes to avoid airspace disrupted by the conflict in West Asia.  


Iran War Delivers Syria an Unexpected Jackpot

Heavy rainfall has caused the Euphrates River to swell, triggering floods across parts of Syria and worsening an already fragile humanitarian situation. Low-lying areas have been inundated, forcing evacuations and disrupting daily life in affected regions. Authorities and aid agencies are working to manage the crisis as concerns grow over further rainfall and rising water levels in the coming days.


Syria Floods: Euphrates River Swell After Heavy Rainfall

2025 has become one of the worst years on record for internal displacement caused by war and violence. From Gaza and Sudan to Syria and DR Congo, millions have been forced from their homes amid escalating humanitarian crises. A new global report reveals conflict-driven displacement has now surpassed disaster-related displacement for the first time ever. Here’s a closer look at the growing global humanitarian emergency.


Conflict-Driven Displacement Hits Record High Worldwide

Jordan has stepped up military strikes inside Syria’s Sweida region, saying the operations target powerful smuggling networks operating along the border. Jordanian authorities have repeatedly warned about the growing threat of drug trafficking and armed smuggling groups entering the country from southern Syria. The latest escalation highlights rising regional security tensions as neighbouring countries struggle to contain instability spilling over from the long-running Syrian conflict.


Jordan Says It Is Moving Against Smuggling Networks in Syria

A major legal development is underway in Syria as former official Atif Najib appeared in court in the country’s first trial linked to the Assad-era crackdown. The case, tied to repression during the Daraa uprising, also involves references to figures connected to the former regime. With the next hearing set for May 10, the proceedings mark a rare judicial step in addressing alleged abuses from Syria’s long-running conflict.


Syria: President Al-Sharaa Says Justice Remains Key National Priority

Iraq has reopened a key border crossing with Syria after a decade, aiming to boost fuel oil exports and strengthen regional trade routes. The move is expected to improve energy flow and economic cooperation between the two countries, marking a significant step in restoring cross-border connectivity amid shifting Middle East trade dynamics.


Iraq-Syria Border Crossing Reopens For First Time In Over A Decade 

Iraq Reopens Crossing to Boost Fuel Oil Exports Via Syria; Crossing Reopens After a Decade

Escalating fighting in the Israel–Lebanon conflict has forced the closure of a key Lebanon–Syria border crossing, disrupting movement of civilians, aid supplies, and trade routes across the region. The shutdown comes after intensified strikes near the frontier raised security concerns and triggered emergency precautions by authorities.


Israel-Lebanon War: Attacks Force Lebanon-Syria Border Crossing to Crossing 

Hezbollah on Sunday struck an Israeli military vessel off the Lebanese coast with a naval cruise missile, claiming a direct hit as fighting with Israel in the south escalated.

In a statement, the group said the warship was hit about 68 nautical miles (around 126 km) offshore while preparing to carry out attacks on Lebanese territory, adding that the target had been monitored for hours before the strike.

Israel Launches Fresh Lebanon Strikes, Shuts Down Key Syria Border Crossing

Islamic State has issued a call urging militants to overthrow the Al-Sharaa government in Syria. Analysts warn this message could signal attempts to regroup and intensify insurgency activities in the region.

Security forces in Syria are on high alert as counter-terrorism operations continue. The international community has urged vigilance amid fears of destabilisation. Stay updated on the latest developments regarding ISIS mobilization and Syria’s response.


ISIS Returns: Islamic State Declares “New Phase” in Syria, Leader Issues Warning

US forces that led the coalition against the Islamic State began the process of withdrawal from their largest base in northeastern Syria on Monday (Feb 23) and expected to complete their withdrawal from Syria within a month, AFP reported, citing sources. The decision to pull out comes as Syria's government widened its control over territories in the northeast, previously controlled by US-allied Kurdish forces after formally joining hands with the coalition against IS.&nbsp;US troops have already pulled out from two other key bases in the past two weeks, &nbsp;Al-Tanf in the southeast and Shadadi in the northeast. American presence in the country is represented by 1000 troops along with aircraft and other military equipment still deployed in Syria.&nbsp;The development comes after 11 years of US military presence that officially began with airstrikes against the Islamist group in 2014. The US, along with its allies, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), launched Operation Inherent Resolve in 2014 to dismantle the caliphate and free the occupied territory from IS fighters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-can-do-absolutely-terrible-things-to-foreign-countries-trump-says-he-will-use-lowercase-for-supreme-court-after-tariff-ruling-1771851518111">‘I can do absolutely terrible things’: Trump says he will use lowercase for Supreme Court after tariff ruling</a>&nbsp;After forcing IS out of most of its territory in 2019, the US Army partially withdrew later that year but maintained a limited presence of nearly 2,000 troops in the region.&nbsp;The most significant shift in US strategy came after the fall of Basar-al-Assad government in December 2024. The American policy shifted towards mediating between the new Damascus government and the Kurdish SDF to ensure a stable handover of power.&nbsp;After Assad's ouster, Ahmed al-Sharra, a former al-Qaeda operative and founder of Al-Nusra, was formally appointed as President of Syria after his Sunni Islamist group, &nbsp;Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), toppled the Assad regime in Damascus.&nbsp;On January 29, a landmark agreement was signed to integrate the Kurdish led-SDF into the new Syrian national military. President Trump ordered the final 1,000 troops to leave after the new Syrian government of Al-Sharra, who was on the US sanction list for Jihadi activities, proved that it could secure the "oil fields" and maintain the fight against ISIS remnants.

The decision comes after a landmark agreement was signed to integrate the Kurdish-led SDF into the new Syrian national military under Ahmad al-Sharra’s government.

US forces that led the coalition against the Islamic State began the process of withdrawal from their largest base in northeastern Syria on Monday (Feb 23) and expected to complete their withdrawal from Syria within a month, AFP reported, citing sources. The decision to pull out comes as Syria's government widened its control over territories in the northeast, previously controlled by US-allied Kurdish forces after formally joining hands with the coalition against IS. US troops have already pulled out from two other key bases in the past two weeks, Al-Tanf in the southeast and Shadadi in the northeast. American presence in the country is represented by 1000 troops along with aircraft and other military equipment still deployed in Syria. The development comes after 11 years of US military presence that officially began with airstrikes against the Islamist group in 2014. The US, along with its allies, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), launched Operation Inherent Resolve in 2014 to dismantle the caliphate and free the occupied territory from IS fighters. Also Read: ‘I can do absolutely terrible things’: Trump says he will use lowercase for Supreme Court after tariff ruling After forcing IS out of most of its territory in 2019, the US Army partially withdrew later that year but maintained a limited presence of nearly 2,000 troops in the region. The most significant shift in US strategy came after the fall of Basar-al-Assad government in December 2024. The American policy shifted towards mediating between the new Damascus government and the Kurdish SDF to ensure a stable handover of power. After Assad's ouster, Ahmed al-Sharra, a former al-Qaeda operative and founder of Al-Nusra, was formally appointed as President of Syria after his Sunni Islamist group, Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), toppled the Assad regime in Damascus. On January 29, a landmark agreement was signed to integrate the Kurdish led-SDF into the new Syrian national military. President Trump ordered the final 1,000 troops to leave after the new Syrian government of Al-Sharra, who was on the US sanction list for Jihadi activities, proved that it could secure the "oil fields" and maintain the fight against ISIS remnants.

The decision comes after a landmark agreement was signed to integrate the Kurdish-led SDF into the new Syrian national military under Ahmad al-Sharra’s government.

Mission accomplished? US forces begin final exit from Syria after 11-year deployment

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have reportedly abandoned the Al-Hol camp following an attack by Syrian government forces. The move raises concerns about security and the fate of residents at the camp, which houses displaced individuals and foreign detainees. Stay updated with the latest developments on Al-Hol, the SDF, and the ongoing conflict in Syria.


Kurdish-Led SDF Abandoned Al-Hol Due to Attack by Syrian Forces

Thousands of people linked to ISIS have left Syria’s notorious al‑Hol camp in recent weeks as security collapsed following the withdrawal of Kurdish fighters and the takeover by Syrian government forces. U.S. intelligence estimates that between 15,000 and 20,000 individuals fled the facility, which once housed tens of thousands of families of Islamist militants. The mass departures have raised regional security concerns, as many escaped amid chaotic conditions.

Al-Hol Chaos: Thousands Detained, ISIS Terrorists At Large After SDF Withdrawal

Thousands of people linked to ISIS have left Syria’s notorious al‑Hol camp in recent weeks as security collapsed following the withdrawal of Kurdish fighters and the takeover by Syrian government forces. U.S. intelligence estimates that between 15,000 and 20,000 individuals fled the facility, which once housed tens of thousands of families of Islamist militants. The mass departures have raised regional security concerns, as many escaped amid chaotic conditions.


Several Thousand ISIS-Linked People Leave Syria's Al-Hol Camp 

U.S. officials say they prevented a near-catastrophic prison break involving nearly 6,000 ISIS terrorists held in northern Syria. According to Fox News, the detainees were transferred to Iraqi custody amid fears that instability could trigger a mass escape.


US 'Secretly' Airlifted 6,000 ISIS Terrorists From Syria to Iraq 

Australia has announced it will not repatriate its citizens currently held in Syrian detention camps, including those linked to alleged terrorist activities. Reports indicate that some Australians, after being released from local custody, have returned to the camps. The decision has sparked debate over national security, legal responsibilities, and the safety of returning citizens amid ongoing regional instability.

Syrian Camp Controversy: Australia Refuses Return of Nationals from Syria Camps

Lebanon and Syria have accused Israel of using crop-damaging chemicals along border regions, alleging environmental harm and economic losses for farmers in affected areas.


Lebanon & Syria Claim Israel is Using Chemicals Along Border Areas

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

Israel says October 7 changed everything, Netanyahu defends buffer zones in Gaza, Lebanon & Syria

Israel threatens response if Turkey builds Syria bases

Israel warns of Turkish military expansion in Syria

Trump hints at ending Syria's terror designation after praising al-Sharaa

Damascus blast: Explosions struck near hotel where President Macron held meeting

Damascus explosion: Two bombs hit Damascus hotel area during Macron’s historic Syria visit

France's Macron And Syria's Al-Sharaa Hold High-Stakes Talks Amid His Historic Visit

Syria explosion: Nine killed, 20 injured in Damascus bomb blast

Wildfires Engulf Wheat Fields Across Syria

Syria's President Al-Sharaa Snubs Trump, Rules Out Military Action Against Hezbollah

Trump's Plan to Let Syria Handle Hezbollah in Trouble, Al-Sharaa Refuses to Fight

Israel-Iran War: Iraq, Syria Close Airspace After Iran Attacks Israel

Iran War Creates Unexpected Windfall as Syria's Airspace Traffic Soars

Iran War Delivers Syria an Unexpected Jackpot

Syria Floods: Euphrates River Swell After Heavy Rainfall

Conflict-Driven Displacement Hits Record High Worldwide

Jordan Says It Is Moving Against Smuggling Networks in Syria

Syria: President Al-Sharaa Says Justice Remains Key National Priority

Iraq-Syria Border Crossing Reopens For First Time In Over A Decade

Iraq Reopens Crossing to Boost Fuel Oil Exports Via Syria; Crossing Reopens After a Decade

Israel-Lebanon War: Attacks Force Lebanon-Syria Border Crossing to Crossing

Israel Launches Fresh Lebanon Strikes, Shuts Down Key Syria Border Crossing

ISIS Returns: Islamic State Declares “New Phase” in Syria, Leader Issues Warning