<p>Russia blocked a nine-month extension of a key Syria aid route at the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday, throwing the vital mechanism that provides life-saving support to millions of people into doubt.</p>

<p>The UN-brokered agreement that allows for the delivery of aid overland from Turkey into rebel-held areas of Syria expired on Monday.</p>

<p>While many council members including the United States and Britain have called for a full-year extension, Russia has insisted on just six months.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trial-opens-over-new-zealands-2019-white-island-volcanic-eruption-incident-that-killed-22-614451">Trial opens over New Zealand's 2019 White Island volcanic eruption incident that killed 22</a></p>

<p>It vetoed the nine-month compromise proposed by Switzerland and Brazil.</p>

<p>US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield called the veto "an act of utter cruelty."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailands-outgoing-prime-minister-prayut-chan-o-cha-announces-retirement-from-politics-614430">Thailand's outgoing prime minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha announces retirement from politics</a></p>

<p>The 15 members of the Security Council had been trying for days to find a compromise to extend the deal, which since 2014 has allowed for food, water and medicine to be trucked to northwestern Syria without the authorization of Damascus.</p>

<p>The crossing provides for more than 80 percent of the needs of people living in rebel-controlled areas -- everything from diapers and blankets to chickpeas. The government in Damascus regularly denounces the aid deliveries as a violation of its sovereignty.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Why US military deals are not enough to wean India off Russian arms yet</strong></p>

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<p>Russia has been chipping away at the aid mechanism for years.</p>

<p>The accord originally allowed for four entry points into rebel-held Syria, though now only the Bab al-Hawa crossing remains passable. The aid mechanism comes up for renewal every six months due to pressure from Damascus ally Moscow.</p>

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Russia blocked a nine-month extension of a key Syria aid route at the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday, throwing the vital mechanism that provides life-saving support to millions of people into doubt.

Russia blocked a nine-month extension of a key Syria aid route at the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday, throwing the vital mechanism that provides life-saving support to millions of people into doubt. The UN-brokered agreement that allows for the delivery of aid overland from Turkey into rebel-held areas of Syria expired on Monday. While many council members including the United States and Britain have called for a full-year extension, Russia has insisted on just six months. Also Read | Trial opens over New Zealand's 2019 White Island volcanic eruption incident that killed 22 It vetoed the nine-month compromise proposed by Switzerland and Brazil. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield called the veto "an act of utter cruelty." Also Read | Thailand's outgoing prime minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha announces retirement from politics The 15 members of the Security Council had been trying for days to find a compromise to extend the deal, which since 2014 has allowed for food, water and medicine to be trucked to northwestern Syria without the authorization of Damascus. The crossing provides for more than 80 percent of the needs of people living in rebel-controlled areas -- everything from diapers and blankets to chickpeas. The government in Damascus regularly denounces the aid deliveries as a violation of its sovereignty. Watch | Why US military deals are not enough to wean India off Russian arms yet × Russia has been chipping away at the aid mechanism for years. The accord originally allowed for four entry points into rebel-held Syria, though now only the Bab al-Hawa crossing remains passable. The aid mechanism comes up for renewal every six months due to pressure from Damascus ally Moscow. 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. ×

Russia vetoes UN vote to extend key Syria aid route

Evolution has many forms and an artist survives to keep up with the pace of these changing times but what about the artists surviving to make a living in a country that is prone to insurgent attacks. A mosaic artist shares her fear about surviving in tough times. This artist is scared that her craft will become extinct because of a shortage in supply of raw materials and limited orders.

Life of a Mosaic artist in Syria after the lasting impact of Syrian civil war

Three Russian fighter jets intercepted three US Air Force drones in Syria. US Central Command released a video of the incident, which shows the jets releasing parachute flares in front of the drones, ostensibly to block their view. Both the US And Russia are operating in Syria; the US. As part of the anti-Islamic State coalition, Russia is in support of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Here's more on the incident, the Russian su-35 fighters involved; and the role of drones in urban battlefields...

US drones harassed by Russian jets

<p>In what appears to be a clear escalation in tensions between the United States and Russia in Syrian airspace, Russian fighter jets "harassed" an American drone operating over Syria, the second such incident in two consecutive days. The previous incident reportedly took place on Wednesday, media reports said. During a mission against ISIS targets in northwest Syria on Thursday, a US MQ-9 Reaper drone was approached by Russian fighter jets, according to Air Force Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich. One of the Russian jets released flares in front of the US drone, appearing to make an attempt to hit it. Consequently, the drone had to perform evasive manoeuvres to avoid the potential danger.</p>

<h2><strong>'Unprofessional' interaction</strong></h2>

<p>Col. Michael Andrews, a spokesperson for Air Force Central Command, described the encounter as a "sustained" and "unprofessional" interaction. The incident involved two Russian fighters, an SU-45 and SU-35, engaging the American drone for almost an hour.</p>

<p>Video footage released by Air Force Central Command shows the Russian fighters flying near the US drone, with one of them releasing a series of flares as it passed over the drone.</p>

<p>In response to the incident, Lt. Gen. Grynkewich expressed concerns about the "unprofessional" and "unsafe" actions of the Russian air force&nbsp;operating in Syria.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-man-found-guilty-of-raping-impregnating-9-year-old-girl-gets-life-sentence-612846">US: Man found guilty of raping, impregnating 9-year-old girl gets life sentence</a></p>

<p>He said that such actions endanger the safety of both Coalition and Russian forces.</p>

<p>He called upon Russian forces to cease their "reckless" behaviour and adhere to the expected standards of a professional air force. This would allow the focus to return to defeating ISIS effectively,&nbsp;Grynkewich said in a statement while urging Russia to cease its manoeuvres in the airspace.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>French fighter jets harassed US aircraft earlier as well&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The incident followed a similar event that occurred the day before, on Wednesday, where three Russian fighter jets harassed three US drones over Syria.</p>

<p>In that encounter, the Russian jets dropped parachute flares in front of the US drones, necessitating evasive action.</p>

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<p>Additionally, one Russian jet activated its afterburner, compromising the drone operator's ability to operate the aircraft safely.</p>

<p>A Russian SU-35 fighter jet engaged in a "non-professional" interaction with two French Rafale fighter jets near the Iraq-Syria border, reported French Armed Forces.</p>

<h2><strong>US combating ISIS, Russian supports&nbsp;Assad</strong></h2>

<p>Both the United States and Russia have a presence in Syria. The US is primarily focusing on combating the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). Meanwhile, Russia has been supporting the Syrian government led by President Bashar al-Assad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To prevent escalation, the two militaries have relied on a deconfliction line in Syria over the past few years.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian expert claims the US is working on weaponising asteroids against their enemies</strong></p>

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<p>However, media reports said, Russian military actions have increasingly violated the deconfliction protocols by flying too close to US military bases and neglecting to communicate through the established deconfliction line.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian pilots' changing tactics</strong></h2>

<p>US officials have noted a shift in the behaviour of Russian pilots, indicating a "new way of operating."</p>

<p>This change includes instances of Russian fighter jets attempting to engage in dogfights with US fighter jets.</p>

<p>Notably, in March, a Russian SU-27 fighter jet collided with a US MQ-9 Reaper drone in international airspace over the Black Sea, resulting in damage to the drone's propeller and causing it to crash into the water.</p>

<p>These latest encounters between US and Russia come at a time when the conflict in Ukraine is a source of tension between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

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In what appears to be a clear escalation in tensions between the United States and Russia in Syrian airspace, Russian fighter jets "harassed" an American drone operating over Syria, the second such incident in two consecutive days.

In what appears to be a clear escalation in tensions between the United States and Russia in Syrian airspace, Russian fighter jets "harassed" an American drone operating over Syria, the second such incident in two consecutive days. The previous incident reportedly took place on Wednesday, media reports said. During a mission against ISIS targets in northwest Syria on Thursday, a US MQ-9 Reaper drone was approached by Russian fighter jets, according to Air Force Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich. One of the Russian jets released flares in front of the US drone, appearing to make an attempt to hit it. Consequently, the drone had to perform evasive manoeuvres to avoid the potential danger. 'Unprofessional' interaction Col. Michael Andrews, a spokesperson for Air Force Central Command, described the encounter as a "sustained" and "unprofessional" interaction. The incident involved two Russian fighters, an SU-45 and SU-35, engaging the American drone for almost an hour. Video footage released by Air Force Central Command shows the Russian fighters flying near the US drone, with one of them releasing a series of flares as it passed over the drone. In response to the incident, Lt. Gen. Grynkewich expressed concerns about the "unprofessional" and "unsafe" actions of the Russian air force operating in Syria. Also Read | US: Man found guilty of raping, impregnating 9-year-old girl gets life sentence He said that such actions endanger the safety of both Coalition and Russian forces. He called upon Russian forces to cease their "reckless" behaviour and adhere to the expected standards of a professional air force. This would allow the focus to return to defeating ISIS effectively, Grynkewich said in a statement while urging Russia to cease its manoeuvres in the airspace. French fighter jets harassed US aircraft earlier as well The incident followed a similar event that occurred the day before, on Wednesday, where three Russian fighter jets harassed three US drones over Syria. In that encounter, the Russian jets dropped parachute flares in front of the US drones, necessitating evasive action. Also Read | Hong Kong police arrest four men for allegedly aiding overseas activists Additionally, one Russian jet activated its afterburner, compromising the drone operator's ability to operate the aircraft safely. A Russian SU-35 fighter jet engaged in a "non-professional" interaction with two French Rafale fighter jets near the Iraq-Syria border, reported French Armed Forces. US combating ISIS, Russian supports Assad Both the United States and Russia have a presence in Syria. The US is primarily focusing on combating the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). Meanwhile, Russia has been supporting the Syrian government led by President Bashar al-Assad. To prevent escalation, the two militaries have relied on a deconfliction line in Syria over the past few years. Watch | Russian expert claims the US is working on weaponising asteroids against their enemies × However, media reports said, Russian military actions have increasingly violated the deconfliction protocols by flying too close to US military bases and neglecting to communicate through the established deconfliction line. Russian pilots' changing tactics US officials have noted a shift in the behaviour of Russian pilots, indicating a "new way of operating." This change includes instances of Russian fighter jets attempting to engage in dogfights with US fighter jets. Notably, in March, a Russian SU-27 fighter jet collided with a US MQ-9 Reaper drone in international airspace over the Black Sea, resulting in damage to the drone's propeller and causing it to crash into the water. These latest encounters between US and Russia come at a time when the conflict in Ukraine is a source of tension between the two countries. 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. ×

US drones harassed by 'reckless' Russian fighter jets in Syrian skies for second time in two days

The skies over Syria have witnessed yet another tense moment between Russia and the US. The US Air Force has said that Russian fighter jets flew dangerously close to several US drone aircraft. The United States also added that they forced the MQ-9 Reaper drones to take evasive manoeuvres. At the same time, the US Air Force urged the Russian forces in Syria to seize the reckless behaviour.

Tense Russia-US encounter over the skies of Eastern Syria

<p>The US military on Wednesday (July 5) released a video which it said showed Russian fighter jets harassing American military drones during an operation targetting Islamic State (ISIS). The military has said that this is the second such incident&nbsp;to have taken place this year. The US Air Force released drone video footage which has captured the incident. The incident highlights the escalating tensions between the two countries.</p>

<p>A statement was issued on Wednesday by Lieutenant General Alexus G. Grynkewich, commander of the Ninth Air Force. Three MQ-9 Reaper drones were engaged by three Russian fighter jets "in actions that violate established norms and protocols," said the statement, as quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>"These events represent another example of unprofessional and unsafe actions by Russian air force&nbsp;operating in Syria, which threaten the safety of both US and Russian forces," Grynkewich said, calling on Moscow to "cease this reckless behaviour."</p>

<p>The Pentagon had released a video in March depicting&nbsp;a collision between a Russian fighter jet and a US Air Force MQ-9 Reaper drone in international airspace. The collision had caused the drone to crash into the Black Sea.</p>

<p>The MQ-9 Reaper drone, which is primarily deployed for intelligence gathering, can be armed with up to eight laser-guided Hellfire missiles, underscoring the risk of these confrontations.</p>

<h2><strong>UN urges extension of Syria cross-border aid mechanism</strong></h2>

<p>An official of the United Nations visited Syria's Idlib on Tuesday and urged a 12-month extension of a cross-border aid mechanism to rebel-held, quake-hit region. The appeal has come just days before the current six-month arrangement is due to expire.</p>

<p>"There is no substitute in size and scope to the UN cross-border resolution if we want to meet the needs of the most vulnerable people in northwest Syria," said David Carden, the United Nations deputy regional humanitarian coordinator for the Syria crisis.</p>

<p>"It's a joint message that you're hearing from the UN, the NGOs and the communities themselves in northwest Syria about the need for a 12-month renewal of the cross-border resolution," he told a press conference at a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Sarmada.</p>

<p>The mechanism is renewed by a vote of the Security Council. It allows vital UN assistance to reach people living in rebel-held northwest Syria without navigating areas controlled by government forces.</p>

<p>It was renewed in January and is set to expire on July 10.</p>

<p>Carden underlined the need for a 12-month extension and said such an extension will "ensure that aid will continue to flow during the desperate winter months. It will ensure that early recovery programmes can be implemented."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The US military on Wednesday (July 5) released a video which it said showed Russian fighter jets harassing American military drones during an operation targetting Islamic State (ISIS).

The US military on Wednesday (July 5) released a video which it said showed Russian fighter jets harassing American military drones during an operation targetting Islamic State (ISIS). The military has said that this is the second such incident to have taken place this year. The US Air Force released drone video footage which has captured the incident. The incident highlights the escalating tensions between the two countries. A statement was issued on Wednesday by Lieutenant General Alexus G. Grynkewich, commander of the Ninth Air Force. Three MQ-9 Reaper drones were engaged by three Russian fighter jets "in actions that violate established norms and protocols," said the statement, as quoted by Reuters. "These events represent another example of unprofessional and unsafe actions by Russian air force operating in Syria, which threaten the safety of both US and Russian forces," Grynkewich said, calling on Moscow to "cease this reckless behaviour." The Pentagon had released a video in March depicting a collision between a Russian fighter jet and a US Air Force MQ-9 Reaper drone in international airspace. The collision had caused the drone to crash into the Black Sea. The MQ-9 Reaper drone, which is primarily deployed for intelligence gathering, can be armed with up to eight laser-guided Hellfire missiles, underscoring the risk of these confrontations. UN urges extension of Syria cross-border aid mechanism An official of the United Nations visited Syria's Idlib on Tuesday and urged a 12-month extension of a cross-border aid mechanism to rebel-held, quake-hit region. The appeal has come just days before the current six-month arrangement is due to expire. "There is no substitute in size and scope to the UN cross-border resolution if we want to meet the needs of the most vulnerable people in northwest Syria," said David Carden, the United Nations deputy regional humanitarian coordinator for the Syria crisis. "It's a joint message that you're hearing from the UN, the NGOs and the communities themselves in northwest Syria about the need for a 12-month renewal of the cross-border resolution," he told a press conference at a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Sarmada. The mechanism is renewed by a vote of the Security Council. It allows vital UN assistance to reach people living in rebel-held northwest Syria without navigating areas controlled by government forces. It was renewed in January and is set to expire on July 10. Carden underlined the need for a 12-month extension and said such an extension will "ensure that aid will continue to flow during the desperate winter months. It will ensure that early recovery programmes can be implemented." (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 ×

US releases video showing Russian jets troubling US drone over Syria

<p>Several Arabic media outlets, over the weekend, reported that Russian military forces raided Russia’s Wagner mercenary group’s offices in Syria and even detained some fighters. This comes after the Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his&nbsp;men said that they had gained control over the Russian city of Rostov and his army continued to ‘march’ towards the capital, Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the raids?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report by Saudi Arabia TV news channel Al-Hadath, last week, Russian military police allegedly arrested the head of the Wagner unit in As Suwayda, southern Syria and three “high-ranking commanders” at the Khmeimim Air Base.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The media report also alleged that it was a joint raid conducted by Russian military police and Syrian intelligence who also launched an arrest campaign against the Wagner group in Syria, on Friday evening (June 23). On the same day, Prigozhin’s armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city and marched towards Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-issues-arrest-warrant-against-wagner-chief-after-his-call-for-mutiny-608089">Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny</a></strong></p>

<p>The Saudi news channel also reported that the police visited Wagner offices in multiple Syrian cities, including Deir ez-Zur, Hama, and Damascus. The Russian intervention in Syria began in 2015 and has since helped tip the scales in Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad’s favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Assad also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin and said that he supported Russia’s war in Ukraine and recognises territories claimed by Russia in Ukraine. Syria would also welcome more Russian forces and new military bases which need not be temporary, the Syrian president told the Russian media.</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner leaders, fighters in Syria arrested?</strong></h2>

<p>Al-Hadath also reported that Wagner leaders, including recruiters and fighters, were rounded up amid raids in the three previously mentioned cities and Russian forces allegedly arrested three Wagner officers, one of whom is a lieutenant colonel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-russia-weak-after-a-wagner-mutiny-611131">&nbsp;Is Russia weak after a Wagner Mutiny?</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a report by Wall Street Journal, Russia’s deputy foreign minister, Sergey Vershinin over the weekend also visited Damascus and urged Assad to not let any Wagner fighters leave Syria without Moscow’s permission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The arrests were also confirmed by a Pentagon official in Washington and the German defence official, reported Sky News Arabia.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Wagner say about the alleged raids?</strong></h2>

<p>Media reports citing Telegram channels close to Wagner have since denied the reports of detention but did not deny reports of its offices being raided. Reports about the detention of fighters in Syria were “not true,” said a Telegram channel named ‘Orchestra Wagner’ which is said to be linked to the paramilitary group.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-treason-putin-appeals-for-unity-calls-wagner-mutiny-deadly-threat-to-russia-608154">'This is treason': Putin appeals for 'unity', calls Wagner mutiny 'deadly threat' to Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, an Istanbul-based Syrian analyst, Waiel Olwan, told Al-Hadath channel that the Russian military conducted the raids as a “precautionary measure,” and has also allegedly put Wagner’s members under house arrest at the Khmeimim Air Base, reported the London-based media outlet Middle East Eye.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Olwan also reportedly said that while the Prigozhin had announced its march to Moscow, Wagner fighters did not rebel against Russian forces in Syria and even took orders from them.&nbsp;<br />
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Several Arabic media outlets, over the weekend, reported that Russian military forces raided Russia’s Wagner mercenary group’s offices in Syria and even detained some fighters.

Several Arabic media outlets, over the weekend, reported that Russian military forces raided Russia’s Wagner mercenary group’s offices in Syria and even detained some fighters. This comes after the Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his men said that they had gained control over the Russian city of Rostov and his army continued to ‘march’ towards the capital, Moscow. What do we know about the raids? According to a report by Saudi Arabia TV news channel Al-Hadath, last week, Russian military police allegedly arrested the head of the Wagner unit in As Suwayda, southern Syria and three “high-ranking commanders” at the Khmeimim Air Base. The media report also alleged that it was a joint raid conducted by Russian military police and Syrian intelligence who also launched an arrest campaign against the Wagner group in Syria, on Friday evening (June 23). On the same day, Prigozhin’s armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city and marched towards Moscow. ALSO READ | Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny The Saudi news channel also reported that the police visited Wagner offices in multiple Syrian cities, including Deir ez-Zur, Hama, and Damascus. The Russian intervention in Syria began in 2015 and has since helped tip the scales in Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad’s favour. Earlier this year, Assad also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin and said that he supported Russia’s war in Ukraine and recognises territories claimed by Russia in Ukraine. Syria would also welcome more Russian forces and new military bases which need not be temporary, the Syrian president told the Russian media. Wagner leaders, fighters in Syria arrested? Al-Hadath also reported that Wagner leaders, including recruiters and fighters, were rounded up amid raids in the three previously mentioned cities and Russian forces allegedly arrested three Wagner officers, one of whom is a lieutenant colonel. ALSO WATCH | Is Russia weak after a Wagner Mutiny? According to a report by Wall Street Journal, Russia’s deputy foreign minister, Sergey Vershinin over the weekend also visited Damascus and urged Assad to not let any Wagner fighters leave Syria without Moscow’s permission. The arrests were also confirmed by a Pentagon official in Washington and the German defence official, reported Sky News Arabia. What did Wagner say about the alleged raids? Media reports citing Telegram channels close to Wagner have since denied the reports of detention but did not deny reports of its offices being raided. Reports about the detention of fighters in Syria were “not true,” said a Telegram channel named ‘Orchestra Wagner’ which is said to be linked to the paramilitary group. ALSO READ | 'This is treason': Putin appeals for 'unity', calls Wagner mutiny 'deadly threat' to Russia Meanwhile, an Istanbul-based Syrian analyst, Waiel Olwan, told Al-Hadath channel that the Russian military conducted the raids as a “precautionary measure,” and has also allegedly put Wagner’s members under house arrest at the Khmeimim Air Base, reported the London-based media outlet Middle East Eye. Olwan also reportedly said that while the Prigozhin had announced its march to Moscow, Wagner fighters did not rebel against Russian forces in Syria and even took orders from them. 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.

Russian military raided Wagner bases in Syria, detained fighters and leaders: Reports

Israel launched air raids on Syria, aiming at locations near the government-held city of Homs, but Syrian air defences downed most of the missiles, according to a state media report.

Israeli air strikes hit 'anti-aircraft battery' in Syria

<p>In what is being described as a major flare-up of violence in Syria’s last opposition stronghold, Russian jets reportedly bombed villages and towns near the northwestern Syrian city of Idlib, on Sunday (June 25), reported Reuters. Meanwhile, a Syrian war monitor told AFP, that at least 11 people, including seven civilians, were killed in the region, while dozens of others were wounded.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the bombings?</strong></h2>

<p>The Western-backed White Helmets emergency service, on Sunday, said that warplanes flying at high altitudes dropped bombs on a vegetable market in Jisr al-Shughur which was crowded ahead of the Eid festival which has left at least nine dead and 30 others injured. A report by Reuters citing tracking centres said that the warplanes were Russia’s Sukhoi jets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russian jets bomb Syrian city of Idlib, nine dead and 30 injured</strong></p>

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<p>Rami Abdel Rahman, who heads the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, told AFP, “Six civilians were killed in Jisr al-Shughur and three rebel fighters were killed nearby by Russian air strikes”. Similarly, the SOHR and AFP said that a fruit and vegetable market in the city was hit by the Russian strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Ahmed Yezidi of the civil defence in Jisr al-Shughur, which is a city in the rebel-held, Idlib province said that nine people were killed, without mentioning if they were civilians or fighters. He called this bombing a “direct attack on the popular market, which is a basic source of income for farmers” in the area, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-diplomat-discusses-international-issues-amid-wagner-mutiny-608538">Russian diplomat in China discusses ‘international’ issues, Beijing 'supports' Moscow over Wagner mutiny</a></strong></p>

<p>Abdel Rahman told AFP, that one civilian and one rebel fighter were also killed in a strike on the outskirts of Idlib city, adding that at least 30 civilians were wounded in Sunday’s strikes and the death toll might rise.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Attacks in Jabal al Zawya region</strong></h2>

<p>Similarly, Reuters citing witnesses and rescuers said that Russian jets reportedly also attacked villages in the mountainous Jabal al Zawya region which are on the western outskirts of Idlib city. Notably, the region is said to be a buffer zone carved out by Russia and Turkey which also ended major fighting half a decade ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-rebellion-when-putins-former-chef-served-a-dish-of-treason-ten-points-608452">Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points</a></strong></p>

<p>There were no official statements about the supposed attacks by Syria or Russia. According to Abdel Rahman, Moscow, which backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, carried out the reported air strikes in response to rebel drone attacks over the past week that killed four civilians including two children, reported AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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In what is being described as a major flare-up of violence in Syria’s last opposition stronghold, Russian jets reportedly bombed villages and towns near the northwestern Syrian city of Idlib, on Sunday (June 25), reported Reuters.

In what is being described as a major flare-up of violence in Syria’s last opposition stronghold, Russian jets reportedly bombed villages and towns near the northwestern Syrian city of Idlib, on Sunday (June 25), reported Reuters. Meanwhile, a Syrian war monitor told AFP, that at least 11 people, including seven civilians, were killed in the region, while dozens of others were wounded. What do we know about the bombings? The Western-backed White Helmets emergency service, on Sunday, said that warplanes flying at high altitudes dropped bombs on a vegetable market in Jisr al-Shughur which was crowded ahead of the Eid festival which has left at least nine dead and 30 others injured. A report by Reuters citing tracking centres said that the warplanes were Russia’s Sukhoi jets. ALSO WATCH | Russian jets bomb Syrian city of Idlib, nine dead and 30 injured Rami Abdel Rahman, who heads the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, told AFP, “Six civilians were killed in Jisr al-Shughur and three rebel fighters were killed nearby by Russian air strikes”. Similarly, the SOHR and AFP said that a fruit and vegetable market in the city was hit by the Russian strike. According to Ahmed Yezidi of the civil defence in Jisr al-Shughur, which is a city in the rebel-held, Idlib province said that nine people were killed, without mentioning if they were civilians or fighters. He called this bombing a “direct attack on the popular market, which is a basic source of income for farmers” in the area, as quoted by AFP. ALSO READ | Russian diplomat in China discusses ‘international’ issues, Beijing 'supports' Moscow over Wagner mutiny Abdel Rahman told AFP, that one civilian and one rebel fighter were also killed in a strike on the outskirts of Idlib city, adding that at least 30 civilians were wounded in Sunday’s strikes and the death toll might rise. Attacks in Jabal al Zawya region Similarly, Reuters citing witnesses and rescuers said that Russian jets reportedly also attacked villages in the mountainous Jabal al Zawya region which are on the western outskirts of Idlib city. Notably, the region is said to be a buffer zone carved out by Russia and Turkey which also ended major fighting half a decade ago. ALSO READ | Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points There were no official statements about the supposed attacks by Syria or Russia. According to Abdel Rahman, Moscow, which backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, carried out the reported air strikes in response to rebel drone attacks over the past week that killed four civilians including two children, reported AFP. (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.

Russia jets step up strikes in rebel-held Syria, at least 11 killed: Reports

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Russian airstrikes on the Syrian city of Idlib have resulted in at least nine fatalities and thirty injuries. Three people were killed and five others injured in a Sunday morning shooting in Kansas City US. Missouri city police have initiated an investigation, motive unknown.

9 Dead after Russia bombs Idlib | US: Three dead in Kansas city Shooting

Russian airstrikes on the Syrian city of Idlib have resulted in at least nine fatalities and thirty injuries. In a significant escalation of bloodshed in Syria's final resistance bastion, Russian Sukhoi Jets attacked a vegetable market packed with shoppers just before Eid.

Russian jets bomb Syrian city of Idlib, nine dead and 30 injured

A soaring anti-Syrian sentiment in Lebanon means a troubled existence for Syrian refugees living in the country. Conditions for them worsen by the day. The government in Beirut has begun a crackdown asking Syrian nationals to leave. Many have been deported and the future looks bleak.

Lebanon crackdowns on Syrian refugees | The West Asia Post

Tonight on The West Asia Post with Ghadi Francis: - West bank on the boil - Israel-Palestine clashes - Syrian refugees suffer on - Jordan's Youth - A bleak future - Iraq's searing summer - Haj Pilgrimage - Building new bridges

The West Asia Post: West bank on the boil | Israel-Palestine clashes

<p>Twenty-two US&nbsp;service members were injured in a helicopter "mishap" in northeast Syria on Sunday, the US&nbsp;military said late on Monday, without disclosing the cause of the incident or detailing the severity of the injuries.</p>

<p>The US&nbsp;military's Central Command said 10 service members were evacuated to higher-level care facilities outside the region.</p>

<p>Central Command, which oversees U.S. troops in the Middle East, said no enemy fire was reported but added that the cause of the incident was under investigation.</p>

<p>Officials at U.S. Central Command did not immediately respond to requests for further information.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-nsa-in-india-to-hammer-out-bilateral-deals-ahead-of-pm-modis-state-visit-603727">US NSA in India to hammer out bilateral deals ahead of PM Modi's state visit</a></strong></p>

<p>The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, which control swathes of northeast Syria, referred questions to the U.S.-led coalition under which American troops are deployed in the zone.</p>

<p>The autonomous Kurdish-led administration which governs the area and the central Syrian government in Damascus did not immediately respond to requests for comment.</p>

<p>There are about 900 US&nbsp;personnel deployed to Syria, most of them in the east, as part of a mission fighting the remnants of Islamic State. American troops there have come under repeated attacks in recent years by Iran-backed militia.</p>

<p>In March, 25 US&nbsp;troops were wounded in strikes and counter-strikes in Syria, which also killed one U.S. contractor and injured another.</p>

<p>U.S. forces first deployed into Syria during the Obama administration's campaign against Islamic State, partnering with a Kurdish-led group called the Syrian Democratic Forces.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi’s state visit to US: What should you expect?</strong></p>

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<p>While Islamic State is now a shadow of the group that ruled over a third of Syria and Iraq in a caliphate declared in 2014, hundreds of fighters are still camped in desolate areas where neither the U.S.-led coalition nor the Syrian army, with support from Russia and Iranian-backed militias, exert full control.</p>

<p>Thousands of other Islamic State fighters are in detention facilities guarded by Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, America's key ally in the country.</p>

<p>U.S. officials say that Islamic State could still regenerate into a major threat.</p>

<p>The threats from Iran-backed militia to U.S. forces are a reminder of the complex geopolitics of Syria, where Syrian President Bashar al-Assad counts on support from Iran and Russia and sees American troops as occupiers.</p>

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Twenty-two US service members were injured in a helicopter "mishap" in northeast Syria on Sunday, the US military said late on Monday, without disclosing the cause of the incident or detailing the severity of the injuries.

Twenty-two US service members were injured in a helicopter "mishap" in northeast Syria on Sunday, the US military said late on Monday, without disclosing the cause of the incident or detailing the severity of the injuries. The US military's Central Command said 10 service members were evacuated to higher-level care facilities outside the region. Central Command, which oversees U.S. troops in the Middle East, said no enemy fire was reported but added that the cause of the incident was under investigation. Officials at U.S. Central Command did not immediately respond to requests for further information. ALSO READ | US NSA in India to hammer out bilateral deals ahead of PM Modi's state visit The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, which control swathes of northeast Syria, referred questions to the U.S.-led coalition under which American troops are deployed in the zone. The autonomous Kurdish-led administration which governs the area and the central Syrian government in Damascus did not immediately respond to requests for comment. There are about 900 US personnel deployed to Syria, most of them in the east, as part of a mission fighting the remnants of Islamic State. American troops there have come under repeated attacks in recent years by Iran-backed militia. In March, 25 US troops were wounded in strikes and counter-strikes in Syria, which also killed one U.S. contractor and injured another. U.S. forces first deployed into Syria during the Obama administration's campaign against Islamic State, partnering with a Kurdish-led group called the Syrian Democratic Forces. WATCH | PM Modi’s state visit to US: What should you expect? × While Islamic State is now a shadow of the group that ruled over a third of Syria and Iraq in a caliphate declared in 2014, hundreds of fighters are still camped in desolate areas where neither the U.S.-led coalition nor the Syrian army, with support from Russia and Iranian-backed militias, exert full control. Thousands of other Islamic State fighters are in detention facilities guarded by Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, America's key ally in the country. U.S. officials say that Islamic State could still regenerate into a major threat. The threats from Iran-backed militia to U.S. forces are a reminder of the complex geopolitics of Syria, where Syrian President Bashar al-Assad counts on support from Iran and Russia and sees American troops as occupiers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

22 US troops injured in Syria helicopter mishap, says Washington

Recycling has become a lifeline in Syria and in a desperate search for work and affordable items, residents turn to sifting through the garbage dumps, transforming plastic into everyday requirements. Here's our report.

Desperate Syrians turn to recycling and plastic scavenging for survival

A 31-year-old Syrian asylum-seeker has stabbed four toddlers in the French town of Annecy. At least one of the toddlers was in a strolled at the time of the attack. Will the incident force France to rethink its policy regarding refugees and asylum-seekers? Vikram Chandra brings you the details.

France: Syrian asylum-seeker stabs toddlers in Annecy

Israel reportedly carried out nocturnal attacks on the Syrian capital of Damascus, according to the Syrian Defence Ministry. The ministry claimed that Israel targeted specific points nearby, but anti-aircraft defence guarded the capital and shot down many missiles.

Reports: The Israeli attack causes only material damage in Damascus

Mothers in Syria are being forced to abandon their babies in mosques, hospitals and even under trees. People in poverty-ridden refugee camps are struggling to feed their children. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Why are Syrian mothers forced to abandon their babies?

<p>Shabazz Suleman, a 27-year-old British man from High Wycombe, has been sentenced to life in prison by a UK court for travelling to Syria nearly a decade ago to join the Islamic State (ISIS) group. Judge Mark Lucraft, who presided over the case at London's Old Bailey criminal court, highlighted that Suleman knowingly joined an organisation proscribed under English law.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the judge say?</strong></h2>

<p>"You went to Syria in order to join IS. You understood IS was a proscribed organisation in English law," said Judge Mark Lucraft as he passed the sentence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The judge also noted that Suleman's intention was to become a sniper within ISIS.</p>

<p>"Your ambition was to become a sniper."</p>

<h2><strong>Guilty plea and the sentence</strong></h2>

<p>Suleman, who pleaded guilty last month, admitted to preparing acts of terrorism by travelling from the UK to Turkey in August 2014 at the age of 18, with the purpose of joining ISIS in Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-carolina-judge-temporarily-blocks-abortion-ban-pending-supreme-court-review-596939">South Carolina judge temporarily blocks abortion ban, pending supreme court review</a></strong></p>

<p>Under the life sentence, Suleman will serve a minimum term of nine years and six months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>How did an 18-year-old join ISIS?</strong></p>

<p>He disappeared during a family holiday in Turkey. This, as per the news agency AFP, Turkey, which borders Syria, is a common route for Western individuals aspiring to join jihadist groups in Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the court proceedings, prosecutor Duncan Atkinson revealed that Suleman was detained by Turkish forces while attempting to travel to Syria, but later chose to participate in a prisoner exchange with ISIS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Once in Syria, he shared his experiences on social media and gave incriminating interviews to Sky News.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Shabazz Suleman's arrest and charges against him</strong></h2>

<p>In September 2021, Suleman was arrested at Heathrow Airport and charged with several terror offences, including firearms training and membership in a proscribed organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexicos-olmec-portal-of-the-underworld-returns-home-after-five-decades-in-us-596915">Mexico's Olmec 'Portal of the Underworld' returns home after five decades in US</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the prosecution decided to leave the two specific charges on file as Suleman's guilty plea already addressed them. This means that although the charges were not dropped entirely, they were not pursued separately as they were already encompassed by his admission of guilt.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Escaping the ISIS</h2>

<p>Suleman's defence lawyer, Abdul Iqbal, described him as an "immature and idealistic" young man who initially wanted to help people in distress and participated in non-combat duties within ISIS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Suleman eventually became "disenchanted" with jihadism and attempted to desert the terrorist group.</p>

<p>Iqbal emphasized that his client "firmly" decided to leave the terrorist organisation within five months of joining.</p>

<p>After the collapse of ISIS, Suleman was captured by a faction of the Free Syrian Army (FSA) in 2017. He was subsequently transferred to Turkey and later to Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>


Shabazz Suleman, a 27-year-old British man from High Wycombe, has been sentenced to life in prison by a UK court for travelling to Syria nearly a decade ago to join the Islamic State (ISIS) group.

Shabazz Suleman, a 27-year-old British man from High Wycombe, has been sentenced to life in prison by a UK court for travelling to Syria nearly a decade ago to join the Islamic State (ISIS) group. Judge Mark Lucraft, who presided over the case at London's Old Bailey criminal court, highlighted that Suleman knowingly joined an organisation proscribed under English law. What did the judge say? "You went to Syria in order to join IS. You understood IS was a proscribed organisation in English law," said Judge Mark Lucraft as he passed the sentence. The judge also noted that Suleman's intention was to become a sniper within ISIS. "Your ambition was to become a sniper." Guilty plea and the sentence Suleman, who pleaded guilty last month, admitted to preparing acts of terrorism by travelling from the UK to Turkey in August 2014 at the age of 18, with the purpose of joining ISIS in Syria. Also read | South Carolina judge temporarily blocks abortion ban, pending supreme court review Under the life sentence, Suleman will serve a minimum term of nine years and six months. How did an 18-year-old join ISIS? He disappeared during a family holiday in Turkey. This, as per the news agency AFP, Turkey, which borders Syria, is a common route for Western individuals aspiring to join jihadist groups in Syria. During the court proceedings, prosecutor Duncan Atkinson revealed that Suleman was detained by Turkish forces while attempting to travel to Syria, but later chose to participate in a prisoner exchange with ISIS. Once in Syria, he shared his experiences on social media and gave incriminating interviews to Sky News. Shabazz Suleman's arrest and charges against him In September 2021, Suleman was arrested at Heathrow Airport and charged with several terror offences, including firearms training and membership in a proscribed organisation. Also read | Mexico's Olmec 'Portal of the Underworld' returns home after five decades in US However, the prosecution decided to leave the two specific charges on file as Suleman's guilty plea already addressed them. This means that although the charges were not dropped entirely, they were not pursued separately as they were already encompassed by his admission of guilt. Escaping the ISIS Suleman's defence lawyer, Abdul Iqbal, described him as an "immature and idealistic" young man who initially wanted to help people in distress and participated in non-combat duties within ISIS. However, Suleman eventually became "disenchanted" with jihadism and attempted to desert the terrorist group. Iqbal emphasized that his client "firmly" decided to leave the terrorist organisation within five months of joining. After the collapse of ISIS, Suleman was captured by a faction of the Free Syrian Army (FSA) in 2017. He was subsequently transferred to Turkey and later to Pakistan.

British man receives life sentence for trying to join ISIS in Syria

<p>A top US defence source confirmed to Fox News that the country's military authorities are retracting their assertion that a senior al Qaeda commander was killed in a recent drone operation in Syria. The Washington Post reported the story first. According to the Post, Lotfi Hassan Misto, 56, was recognised by his family as the victim of the American missile strike on May 3.</p>

<p>The operation was overseen by US Central Command, or CENTCOM, which said in a statement the day of the strike that it had carried out a strike "targeting a senior al Qaeda leader."&nbsp;</p>

<p>No more information was given, and the victim's identity remained a secret.&nbsp;Misto's family asserts that he was caring for his sheep when he was slain and that he had no connections to terrorist groups.</p>

<p>According to Misto's family, he was a father of 10 who quietly resided in a town in northwest Syria and lived in poverty for the majority of his life.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-prohibits-employees-from-using-openais-chatgpt-report-593888">Apple bans employees from using OpenAI's ChatGPT</a></p>

<p>“We are no longer confident we killed a senior AQ official,” one official said.</p>

<p>Also speaking on the condition of anonymity was another official source who said “though we believe the strike did not kill the original target, we believe the person to be al-Qaeda.”</p>

<p>Michael Lawhorn, a spokesman for Central Command, said, “Centcom takes all such allegations seriously and is investigating to determine whether or not the action may have unintentionally resulted in harm to civilians."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-to-attend-japan-hosted-g7-summit-in-person-593931">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to attend Japan-hosted G7 summit in person</a></p>

<p>In the weeks following the strike, US military authorities have resisted disclosing details of their target, the error that happened, whether a real terrorist commander fled, if Misto was an actual member of al-Qaeda, and the reason why some Pentagon officials continue to believe Misto was an al-Qaeda member despite his family's protestations.</p>

<h2><strong>US evacuation from Afghanistan and erroneous airstrikes&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>When the Biden administration was accused of covering up instances of erroneous airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of innocent people last year, it committed to take action to lessen those risks while also pledging greater openness in the event that such fatalities did occur.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Japan to join India's UPI payment system, says Kono Taro, Japan's Digital Minister</strong></p>

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<p>Investigations by numerous media outlets, including The Post, have shown how faulty intelligence and what the military refers to as "confirmation bias" have resulted in disaster.</p>

<p>One such incident occurred in 2021 during the US evacuation of Afghanistan and was initially reported to have killed a suicide bomber but actually killed 10 Afghan civilians, including seven children.</p>

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A top US defence source confirmed to Fox News that the country's military authorities are retracting their assertion that a senior al Qaeda commander was killed in a recent drone operation in Syria.

A top US defence source confirmed to Fox News that the country's military authorities are retracting their assertion that a senior al Qaeda commander was killed in a recent drone operation in Syria. The Washington Post reported the story first. According to the Post, Lotfi Hassan Misto, 56, was recognised by his family as the victim of the American missile strike on May 3. The operation was overseen by US Central Command, or CENTCOM, which said in a statement the day of the strike that it had carried out a strike "targeting a senior al Qaeda leader." No more information was given, and the victim's identity remained a secret. Misto's family asserts that he was caring for his sheep when he was slain and that he had no connections to terrorist groups. According to Misto's family, he was a father of 10 who quietly resided in a town in northwest Syria and lived in poverty for the majority of his life. Also Read | Apple bans employees from using OpenAI's ChatGPT “We are no longer confident we killed a senior AQ official,” one official said. Also speaking on the condition of anonymity was another official source who said “though we believe the strike did not kill the original target, we believe the person to be al-Qaeda.” Michael Lawhorn, a spokesman for Central Command, said, “Centcom takes all such allegations seriously and is investigating to determine whether or not the action may have unintentionally resulted in harm to civilians." Also Read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to attend Japan-hosted G7 summit in person In the weeks following the strike, US military authorities have resisted disclosing details of their target, the error that happened, whether a real terrorist commander fled, if Misto was an actual member of al-Qaeda, and the reason why some Pentagon officials continue to believe Misto was an al-Qaeda member despite his family's protestations. US evacuation from Afghanistan and erroneous airstrikes When the Biden administration was accused of covering up instances of erroneous airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of innocent people last year, it committed to take action to lessen those risks while also pledging greater openness in the event that such fatalities did occur. Watch | Japan to join India's UPI payment system, says Kono Taro, Japan's Digital Minister × Investigations by numerous media outlets, including The Post, have shown how faulty intelligence and what the military refers to as "confirmation bias" have resulted in disaster. One such incident occurred in 2021 during the US evacuation of Afghanistan and was initially reported to have killed a suicide bomber but actually killed 10 Afghan civilians, including seven children. 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. ×

US retracts from claim that it eliminated a senior al Qaeda leader in Syria drone strike

Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad is attending the Arab League Summit in Jeddah. Iran has hailed the reinstatement of the country into the bloc.

Syria President gets warm welcome from Saudi crown prince

After more than a decade of isolation, Bashar al-Assad, the president of war-torn Syria, has been welcomed back into the Arab League.

Assad gets warm reception as Syria welcomed back into Arab League

Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad attending the Arab League Summit in Jeddah. Iran has hailed the reinstatement of the country into the bloc. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Syria attends Arab League summit | Iran hails Syria's reinstatement

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad arrived in the Saudi city of Jeddah on Thursday to attend the Arab League summit the following day. Watch the video to know more.

Syria's Assad arrives in Saudi Arabia for Arab league summit

<p>On November 12, 2011, the Arab League suspended the membership of Syria to punish the government of President Bashar al-Assad for cracking down on anti-government protestors with a brutality so savage it shocked even the members of a group with a poor record of concern for human rights.</p>

<p>On May 7, 2023, the 22-member regional group formally re-admitted Syria and this week al-Assad, still a pariah in the eyes of the West, is scheduled to attend an Arab League summit in Saudi Arabia, whose autocratic de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman, had been pushing for an end to Syria’s isolation.</p>

<p>The decision to welcome back al-Assad, who has done nothing that would merit an embrace, is an abject lesson to&nbsp;the fact that national self-interest and geopolitics trump human rights. Assad has made no concessions for political reform at home, scoffs at the evidence of war crimes in the 4,194 days between expulsion and re-admission, and made no effort to persuade six million refugees to return home.</p>

<p>The Arab League’s decision also highlighted the waning influence of the United States, once a dominant player in the Middle East, and its Western allies. At a joint press conference in Washington two days after the League’s announcement, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and his British counterpart James Cleverly made clear their opposition.</p>

<p>“We do not believe that Syria merits re-admission,” said Blinken. “Our position is clear: We are not going to be in the business of normalising relations with Assad and with that regime.” Not surprisingly, Russia cheered Assad’s return to the fold. “Moscow welcomes this long awaited step of returning Syria to the ‘Arab family’,” said a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-attends-arab-league-meet-after-11-years-592720"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Syria attends Arab League meet after 11 years</strong></a></p>

<p>The tide of the multi-sided civil war that followed the government’s initial wave of anti-protest repression turned in favour of the Assad regime with the 2015 intervention of Russia. Its air power, combined with Iranian-backed militias on the ground saved the government from collapse and allowed it to re-establish control over most of the country.</p>

<p>At the time, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the war as “a living nightmare” and said, “Syria’s people have endured some of the greatest war crimes the world has witnessed this century.”</p>

<p>There never was much hope that al-Assad and his regime would be held to account for a string of well-documented war crimes - from the systematic torture of prisoners and the bombing of schools and hospitals to the use of chemical weapons. Their most devastating deployment took place in August 2013 with the release of the nerve gas Sarin in the opposition-controlled Damascus district of Ghouta. It killed an estimated 1,400 people, including children.</p>

<p>In the early stages of the conflict, legal experts and human rights activists debated whether the Syrian leader could be prosecuted by the International Criminal Court. But under the treaty that established it, there can be prosecution only for crimes committed in one of the 123 member states. Syria is not a member.</p>

<p>When the war began, policymakers in the United States and its Western allies thought tough economic sanctions would be an effective alternative to military action and expected that it would force the Assad regime to change its behaviour.</p>

<p>So confident were key members of the US administration that Assad would buckle under the combined pressure of sanctions and anti-government forces that the Obama administration’s leading expert on Syria, Frederic Hof, told a Congressional committee that “our view is that this regime is the equivalent of a dead man walking…I do not see this regime surviving.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-scores-big-diplomatic-win-in-11-years-to-attend-arab-league-meeting-after-10-years-592771"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Syria scores big diplomatic win in 11 years, to attend Arab League meeting after 10 years</strong></a></p>

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<p>Famous last words. More than a decade and an estimated 300,000 dead civilians later, the West is facing a question yet to be answered: once it is clear that rogue regimes can survive sanctions, should they continue to be applied? Almost everywhere, they have been hurting the civilian population more than their ruthless rulers.</p>

<p>Now that Syria is back with "the Arab family,” what do its members expect? So far, they have not spelt that out explicitly but one key issue for all is the millions of Syrian refugees that the host governments would like to leave their countries. Syrians are a particular burden on Lebanon, numbering close to two million in a population of five.</p>

<p>Another point of “family” contention is Syria’s role as the world’s leading producer and exporter of Captagon, an amphetamine popular in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. It remains to be seen whether Assad can control the drug lords, including close affiliates, who have become multimillionaires under his rule.</p>

<p>Bashar escaping punishment would complete a family tradition. His father, from whom he inherited his power, also enforced authoritarian rule with mass murder. Even in a Middle East dotted with massacre sites, the way Hafez al-Assad dealt with Moslem Brotherhood dissidents in the city of Hama stood out.</p>

<p>On February 2, 1982, an army raid on militants of the outlawed Brotherhood sparked fighting throughout the city. The government responded by surrounding Hama with tanks and artillery and blasted the densely-populated centre for 27 days, without pause. Estimates of those killed in the assault ranged from 10,000 to 40,000, most of them civilians.</p>

<p>The assault ended a four-year campaign of bombing and assassinations by Sunni Muslims intent on breaking the tight grip on power of the Assad family and the Alawite sect, an offshoot of Shia Islam, to which the Assads belong. The Brotherhood lost, Hafez al-Assad won. A role model for his son, he ruled for another 18 years, until his death of heart problems.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></em></p>

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On November 12, 2011, the Arab League suspended the membership of Syria to punish the government of President Bashar al-Assad for cracking down on anti-government protestors with a brutality so savage it shocked even the members of a group with a poor record of concern for human rights.

On November 12, 2011, the Arab League suspended the membership of Syria to punish the government of President Bashar al-Assad for cracking down on anti-government protestors with a brutality so savage it shocked even the members of a group with a poor record of concern for human rights. On May 7, 2023, the 22-member regional group formally re-admitted Syria and this week al-Assad, still a pariah in the eyes of the West, is scheduled to attend an Arab League summit in Saudi Arabia, whose autocratic de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman, had been pushing for an end to Syria’s isolation. The decision to welcome back al-Assad, who has done nothing that would merit an embrace, is an abject lesson to the fact that national self-interest and geopolitics trump human rights. Assad has made no concessions for political reform at home, scoffs at the evidence of war crimes in the 4,194 days between expulsion and re-admission, and made no effort to persuade six million refugees to return home. The Arab League’s decision also highlighted the waning influence of the United States, once a dominant player in the Middle East, and its Western allies. At a joint press conference in Washington two days after the League’s announcement, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and his British counterpart James Cleverly made clear their opposition. “We do not believe that Syria merits re-admission,” said Blinken. “Our position is clear: We are not going to be in the business of normalising relations with Assad and with that regime.” Not surprisingly, Russia cheered Assad’s return to the fold. “Moscow welcomes this long awaited step of returning Syria to the ‘Arab family’,” said a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. ALSO READ | Syria attends Arab League meet after 11 years The tide of the multi-sided civil war that followed the government’s initial wave of anti-protest repression turned in favour of the Assad regime with the 2015 intervention of Russia. Its air power, combined with Iranian-backed militias on the ground saved the government from collapse and allowed it to re-establish control over most of the country. At the time, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the war as “a living nightmare” and said, “Syria’s people have endured some of the greatest war crimes the world has witnessed this century.” There never was much hope that al-Assad and his regime would be held to account for a string of well-documented war crimes - from the systematic torture of prisoners and the bombing of schools and hospitals to the use of chemical weapons. Their most devastating deployment took place in August 2013 with the release of the nerve gas Sarin in the opposition-controlled Damascus district of Ghouta. It killed an estimated 1,400 people, including children. In the early stages of the conflict, legal experts and human rights activists debated whether the Syrian leader could be prosecuted by the International Criminal Court. But under the treaty that established it, there can be prosecution only for crimes committed in one of the 123 member states. Syria is not a member. When the war began, policymakers in the United States and its Western allies thought tough economic sanctions would be an effective alternative to military action and expected that it would force the Assad regime to change its behaviour. So confident were key members of the US administration that Assad would buckle under the combined pressure of sanctions and anti-government forces that the Obama administration’s leading expert on Syria, Frederic Hof, told a Congressional committee that “our view is that this regime is the equivalent of a dead man walking…I do not see this regime surviving.” WATCH | Syria scores big diplomatic win in 11 years, to attend Arab League meeting after 10 years × Famous last words. More than a decade and an estimated 300,000 dead civilians later, the West is facing a question yet to be answered: once it is clear that rogue regimes can survive sanctions, should they continue to be applied? Almost everywhere, they have been hurting the civilian population more than their ruthless rulers. Now that Syria is back with "the Arab family,” what do its members expect? So far, they have not spelt that out explicitly but one key issue for all is the millions of Syrian refugees that the host governments would like to leave their countries. Syrians are a particular burden on Lebanon, numbering close to two million in a population of five. Another point of “family” contention is Syria’s role as the world’s leading producer and exporter of Captagon, an amphetamine popular in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. It remains to be seen whether Assad can control the drug lords, including close affiliates, who have become multimillionaires under his rule. Bashar escaping punishment would complete a family tradition. His father, from whom he inherited his power, also enforced authoritarian rule with mass murder. Even in a Middle East dotted with massacre sites, the way Hafez al-Assad dealt with Moslem Brotherhood dissidents in the city of Hama stood out. On February 2, 1982, an army raid on militants of the outlawed Brotherhood sparked fighting throughout the city. The government responded by surrounding Hama with tanks and artillery and blasted the densely-populated centre for 27 days, without pause. Estimates of those killed in the assault ranged from 10,000 to 40,000, most of them civilians. The assault ended a four-year campaign of bombing and assassinations by Sunni Muslims intent on breaking the tight grip on power of the Assad family and the Alawite sect, an offshoot of Shia Islam, to which the Assads belong. The Brotherhood lost, Hafez al-Assad won. A role model for his son, he ruled for another 18 years, until his death of heart problems. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

How Syria’s Bashar al-Assad got away with murder

<p>Officials from Syria took part in preparatory session ahead of Arab League meeting on Friday as the country marked end of over a decade of exile. The summit is due to take place in Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>"I... take this opportunity to welcome the Syrian Arab Republic to the League of Arab States," Saudi finance minister Mohammed al-Jadaan told the meeting, which was broadcast live by state TV channel Al Ekhbariya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jadaan added that he was "looking forward to working with everyone to achieve what we aspire to", as the camera panned to the Syrian delegation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Arab League suspended Damascus in November 2011 after the regime's violent crackdown on protests. The protests spiralled into a conflict that has killed more than 500,000 people and displaced millions.</p>

<p>Syria was brought back into the Arab League earlier this month. This was seen as Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's return to the Arab fold.</p>

<p>Saudi King Salman has invited Assad to attend Friday's summit in the Red Sea coastal city of Jeddah, which would be his first since the 2010 meeting in Libya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Assad regime held on to power during the war in Syria and clawed back lost territory. He got crucial support from Iran and Russia during all these years. Regional capitals began warming to Assad gradually.</p>

<p>The United Arab Emirates re-established ties with Syria in 2018 and has been leading the recent charge to reintegrate Damascus.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UAE invites Syria to COP28</strong></h2>

<p>The United Arab Emirates has invited Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to attend the United Nations climate summit in Dubai later this year, Syrian state media said Monday.</p>

<p>Assad's first invitation to a global summit since the start of Syria's war in 2011 comes as the Arab world gradually warms to Damascus after a long spell in the diplomatic wilderness.</p>

<p>The Emirati charge d'affaires in Syria, Abdul Hakeem al-Nuaimi, has handed Assad an invitation from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan "to attend the COP28 climate conference", official news agency SANA reported.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Officials from Syria took part in preparatory session ahead of Arab League meeting on Friday as the country marked end of over a decade of exile. The summit is due to take place in Saudi Arabia.

Officials from Syria took part in preparatory session ahead of Arab League meeting on Friday as the country marked end of over a decade of exile. The summit is due to take place in Saudi Arabia. "I... take this opportunity to welcome the Syrian Arab Republic to the League of Arab States," Saudi finance minister Mohammed al-Jadaan told the meeting, which was broadcast live by state TV channel Al Ekhbariya. Jadaan added that he was "looking forward to working with everyone to achieve what we aspire to", as the camera panned to the Syrian delegation. Arab League suspended Damascus in November 2011 after the regime's violent crackdown on protests. The protests spiralled into a conflict that has killed more than 500,000 people and displaced millions. Syria was brought back into the Arab League earlier this month. This was seen as Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's return to the Arab fold. Saudi King Salman has invited Assad to attend Friday's summit in the Red Sea coastal city of Jeddah, which would be his first since the 2010 meeting in Libya. Assad regime held on to power during the war in Syria and clawed back lost territory. He got crucial support from Iran and Russia during all these years. Regional capitals began warming to Assad gradually. The United Arab Emirates re-established ties with Syria in 2018 and has been leading the recent charge to reintegrate Damascus. UAE invites Syria to COP28 The United Arab Emirates has invited Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to attend the United Nations climate summit in Dubai later this year, Syrian state media said Monday. Assad's first invitation to a global summit since the start of Syria's war in 2011 comes as the Arab world gradually warms to Damascus after a long spell in the diplomatic wilderness. The Emirati charge d'affaires in Syria, Abdul Hakeem al-Nuaimi, has handed Assad an invitation from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan "to attend the COP28 climate conference", official news agency SANA reported. (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 attends Arab League meet after 11 years

In a major diplomatic win for Syria, the country's leaders attend the first Arab League meeting in 11 years on Monday. The senior officials were present at the session ahead of Friday's summit in Saudi Arabia.

Syria scores big diplomatic win in 11 years, to attend Arab League meeting after 10 years

Syria's 10-year-long dry spell finally ends, UAE invites the country to COP28 climate summit

Syria has got its first-ever stand-up comedy group, the group is named 'Styria', founded by Sharif Homsi in 2022 and has about 14 comedians. A growing crowd comes every weekend to a small coffee shop in Syria's capital, Damascus.

Syria gets its first stand-up comedy group 'Styria' in Damascus, founded by 'Sharif Homsi'

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad cemented his return to the Arab fold recently after Saudi Arabia said it will reopen its diplomatic mission in Syria. The announcement was made by the Saudi foreign ministry and later confirmed by Damascus. This also comes days after Syria was readmitted into the Arab League ending its years-long suspension.

Saudi Arabia, Syria to restore diplomatic ties after a decade, reopen missions

Big news for Syria as the Arab League officially end its 12-year sentence in the cold. Damascus has re-entered the Arab fold as relationships are being re-written in one of the world's most volatile regions. What led to these developments and what will be its impact? Ghadi Francis decodes the story.

Syria returns to the Arab fold | The West Asia Post

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