More than half of children in war-torn Syria are missing out on education, the UN children's agency UNICEF said Sunday,&nbsp;with a third of schools in ruins or commandeered by fighters.

The figures are a sharp rise from previous estimates when UNICEF said a third of Syrian&nbsp;children were out of school.

"After almost ten years of war in Syria, more than half of children continue to be deprived of education,"&nbsp;UNICEF said in a statement, estimating there are over 2.4 million children out of school inside the country.

"This number has likely increased in 2020 due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, which exacerbated the disruption to education in Syria," said Ted Chaiban, UNICEF's chief for the Middle East and North Africa, alongside Syria crisis boss Muhannad Hadi, in a joint statement.

"The education system in Syria is overstretched, underfunded, fragmented and unable to provide safe, equitable and sustained services to millions of children," they added.

Syria's civil war erupted in 2011 after the violent repression of protests, quickly spiralling into a complex conflict that pulled in numerous actors, including jihadist groups and foreign powers.

Over 387,000 people have been killed, and more than half of Syria's pre-war population of 20 million have been forced to flee their homes.

"One in three schools inside Syria can no longer be used because they were destroyed, damaged or are being used for military purposes," the statement added.

The schools that remain operative, UNICEF said, are often overcrowded and located in "buildings with insufficient water and sanitation facilities, electricity, heating or ventilation".

UNICEF said it confirmed 52 attacks against education facilities last year, bringing to nearly 700 the number of UN-confirmed violations against schools and teaching staff.

More than half of children in war-torn Syria are missing out on education, the UN children's agency UNICEF said Sunday, with a third of schools in ruins or commandeered by fighters.

More than half of children in war-torn Syria are missing out on education, the UN children's agency UNICEF said Sunday, with a third of schools in ruins or commandeered by fighters. The figures are a sharp rise from previous estimates when UNICEF said a third of Syrian children were out of school. "After almost ten years of war in Syria, more than half of children continue to be deprived of education," UNICEF said in a statement, estimating there are over 2.4 million children out of school inside the country. "This number has likely increased in 2020 due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, which exacerbated the disruption to education in Syria," said Ted Chaiban, UNICEF's chief for the Middle East and North Africa, alongside Syria crisis boss Muhannad Hadi, in a joint statement. "The education system in Syria is overstretched, underfunded, fragmented and unable to provide safe, equitable and sustained services to millions of children," they added. Syria's civil war erupted in 2011 after the violent repression of protests, quickly spiralling into a complex conflict that pulled in numerous actors, including jihadist groups and foreign powers. Over 387,000 people have been killed, and more than half of Syria's pre-war population of 20 million have been forced to flee their homes. "One in three schools inside Syria can no longer be used because they were destroyed, damaged or are being used for military purposes," the statement added. The schools that remain operative, UNICEF said, are often overcrowded and located in "buildings with insufficient water and sanitation facilities, electricity, heating or ventilation". UNICEF said it confirmed 52 attacks against education facilities last year, bringing to nearly 700 the number of UN-confirmed violations against schools and teaching staff.

Over half of Syria's children deprived of education: UN

Four civilians, including two children, were killed by Israeli strikes on the Syrian province of Hama at dawn on Friday.

The Syrian state news agency SANA reported that a Syrian military source as saying that the country's air defences responded to Israeli missiles in the central province, "intercepting most" of them.

It later said "the Israeli aggression resulted in the martyrdom of a family, including a father, mother and two children", adding another four people were wounded and three houses destroyed on the western edges of Hama city.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the Israeli raids targetted Syrian military sites and resulted in the "destruction" of five of them in an area of Hama where Iran-backed fighters are present.

The civilians were, however, killed by "debris from one of the Syrian anti-aircraft defence missiles that fell on a house in a densely populated neighbourhood".

Israeli strikes on eastern Syria killed 57 government and allied fighters on January 13, in the deadliest raids since the Jewish state launched its air assault on targets in the war-torn country, the Observatory said.

Israel routinely carries out raids in Syria, mostly against targets linked to Iran in what it says is a bid to prevent its arch foe from consolidating a foothold on its northern border.

Four civilians, including two children, were killed by Israeli strikes on the Syrian province of Hama at dawn on Friday. The Syrian state news agency SANA reported that a Syrian military source as saying that the country's air defences responded to Israeli missiles in the central province, "intercepting most" of them.

Four civilians, including two children, were killed by Israeli strikes on the Syrian province of Hama at dawn on Friday. The Syrian state news agency SANA reported that a Syrian military source as saying that the country's air defences responded to Israeli missiles in the central province, "intercepting most" of them. It later said "the Israeli aggression resulted in the martyrdom of a family, including a father, mother and two children", adding another four people were wounded and three houses destroyed on the western edges of Hama city. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the Israeli raids targetted Syrian military sites and resulted in the "destruction" of five of them in an area of Hama where Iran-backed fighters are present. The civilians were, however, killed by "debris from one of the Syrian anti-aircraft defence missiles that fell on a house in a densely populated neighbourhood". Israeli strikes on eastern Syria killed 57 government and allied fighters on January 13, in the deadliest raids since the Jewish state launched its air assault on targets in the war-torn country, the Observatory said. Israel routinely carries out raids in Syria, mostly against targets linked to Iran in what it says is a bid to prevent its arch foe from consolidating a foothold on its northern border.

Israeli strikes kill four civilians in Syria

Four civilians, including two children, were killed by Israeli strikes on the Syrian province of Hama at dawn on Friday, the Syrian state news agency SANA reported.

SANA cited a Syrian military source as saying that the country's air defences responded to Israeli missiles in the central province, "intercepting most" of them.

It later said "the Israeli aggression resulted in the martyrdom of a family, including a father, mother and two children", adding another four people were wounded and three houses destroyed on the western edges of Hama city.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-attack-kills-seven-regime-loyalists-in-eastern-syria-355768">&nbsp;IS attack kills seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria</a>

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the Israeli raids targeted Syrian military sites and resulted in the "destruction" of five of them in an area of Hama where Iran-backed fighters are present.

But the war monitor said the civilians were killed by "debris from one of the Syrian anti-aircraft defence missiles that fell on a house in a densely populated neighbourhood".

The Israeli army rarely acknowledges individual raids on Syria and refused to comment on the latest reports when contacted by AFP on Friday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-unsc-india-warns-of-syrian-chemical-weapons-falling-into-the-hands-of-terrorists-354693">At UNSC, India warns of Syrian chemical weapons falling into the hands of terrorists</a>

Israeli strikes on eastern Syria killed 57 government and allied fighters on January 13, in the deadliest raids since the Jewish state launched its air assault on targets in the war-torn country, the Observatory said.

The Observatory is a Britain-based monitor that relies on sources on the ground in Syria for its reports.

Israel rarely confirms it has carried out strikes in Syria, but the army said it hit about 50 targets in the war-torn country in 2020, without providing details.

The Jewish state routinely carries out raids in Syria, mostly against targets linked to Iran in what it says is a bid to prevent its arch foe from consolidating a foothold on its northern border.

Four civilians, including two children, were killed by Israeli strikes on the Syrian province of Hama at dawn on Friday, the Syrian state news agency SANA reported.

Four civilians, including two children, were killed by Israeli strikes on the Syrian province of Hama at dawn on Friday, the Syrian state news agency SANA reported. SANA cited a Syrian military source as saying that the country's air defences responded to Israeli missiles in the central province, "intercepting most" of them. It later said "the Israeli aggression resulted in the martyrdom of a family, including a father, mother and two children", adding another four people were wounded and three houses destroyed on the western edges of Hama city. Also read| IS attack kills seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the Israeli raids targeted Syrian military sites and resulted in the "destruction" of five of them in an area of Hama where Iran-backed fighters are present. But the war monitor said the civilians were killed by "debris from one of the Syrian anti-aircraft defence missiles that fell on a house in a densely populated neighbourhood". The Israeli army rarely acknowledges individual raids on Syria and refused to comment on the latest reports when contacted by AFP on Friday. Also read| At UNSC, India warns of Syrian chemical weapons falling into the hands of terrorists Israeli strikes on eastern Syria killed 57 government and allied fighters on January 13, in the deadliest raids since the Jewish state launched its air assault on targets in the war-torn country, the Observatory said. The Observatory is a Britain-based monitor that relies on sources on the ground in Syria for its reports. Israel rarely confirms it has carried out strikes in Syria, but the army said it hit about 50 targets in the war-torn country in 2020, without providing details. The Jewish state routinely carries out raids in Syria, mostly against targets linked to Iran in what it says is a bid to prevent its arch foe from consolidating a foothold on its northern border.

Israeli strikes kill 4 civilians in Syria: State media

Even as the situation remains precarious in Syria, the United Nations Security Council discussed the issue with India pointing to the "politicization and militarization of the conflict" bringing "disastrous consequences".

India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "India supports the UN continuing its humanitarian relief operations through all possible channels, with the cooperation of the Syrian Government" and highlighted that it "is important to delink humanitarian assistance from progress on the political track." Tirumurti explained, "We believe that the noble and necessary cause of humanitarian assistance should always be bereft of politics."

This year marks 10 years since the conflict began in 2011. India had provided $12 million in humanitarian assistance to the Syrian government. Last year to fight the COVID pandemic, India sent a gift of 10 metric tonnes of medicines to Damascus.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-secretary-of-state-nominee-tony-blinken-says-india-has-been-a-bipartisan-success-story-357838">US Secretary of State nominee Tony Blinken says India has been a bipartisan success story</a>

Calling on the international community to "provide assistance to Syria in rebuilding its infrastructure, safeguarding people's livelihoods and fighting COVID-19", Tirumurti said, "we should be sensitive to the debilitating impact that sanctions continue to have on the lives of the common people of Syria."

India has provided scholarships to 1000 Syrian students to study in India. In December 2019, it organized an artificial limb fitment camp in Damascus which benefited over 500 Syrians. The Indian envoy expressed concerns over "terrorism emanating from Syria" spreading "far, even reaching parts of Africa" with "foreign fighters involved in the Syrian conflict having moved to other places as mercenaries" and the "humanitarian situation has worsened, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic."

During its previous term at the UNSC in 2011-12 under India's presidency, the top UN body adopted the first Presidential Statement on the crisis. &nbsp;Subsequently, the first resolution on Syria was adopted in March 2012, despite deep divisions among Council members, endorsing the six-point plan of the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, Kofi Annan.

Even as the situation remains precarious in Syria, the United Nations Security Council discussed the issue with India pointing to the "politicization and militarization of the conflict" bringing "disastrous consequences".

Even as the situation remains precarious in Syria, the United Nations Security Council discussed the issue with India pointing to the "politicization and militarization of the conflict" bringing "disastrous consequences". India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "India supports the UN continuing its humanitarian relief operations through all possible channels, with the cooperation of the Syrian Government" and highlighted that it "is important to delink humanitarian assistance from progress on the political track." Tirumurti explained, "We believe that the noble and necessary cause of humanitarian assistance should always be bereft of politics." This year marks 10 years since the conflict began in 2011. India had provided $12 million in humanitarian assistance to the Syrian government. Last year to fight the COVID pandemic, India sent a gift of 10 metric tonnes of medicines to Damascus. Also Read | US Secretary of State nominee Tony Blinken says India has been a bipartisan success story Calling on the international community to "provide assistance to Syria in rebuilding its infrastructure, safeguarding people's livelihoods and fighting COVID-19", Tirumurti said, "we should be sensitive to the debilitating impact that sanctions continue to have on the lives of the common people of Syria." India has provided scholarships to 1000 Syrian students to study in India. In December 2019, it organized an artificial limb fitment camp in Damascus which benefited over 500 Syrians. The Indian envoy expressed concerns over "terrorism emanating from Syria" spreading "far, even reaching parts of Africa" with "foreign fighters involved in the Syrian conflict having moved to other places as mercenaries" and the "humanitarian situation has worsened, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic." During its previous term at the UNSC in 2011-12 under India's presidency, the top UN body adopted the first Presidential Statement on the crisis. Subsequently, the first resolution on Syria was adopted in March 2012, despite deep divisions among Council members, endorsing the six-point plan of the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, Kofi Annan.

At UNSC, India highlights politicisation of Syrian conflict

The Syrians living in displacement camps with no adequate infrastructure are highly suffering through adverse weather conditions.

Syria: Qumri and Siti weave carpets from a traditional loom

In one of the deadliest attack in years, Israel strikes East-Syria, killing 57 people. Israel conducted 18 over-night air raids at multiple positions. Strike claims lives of 14 Syrian forces, 16 Iraqi fighters as well.

News Alert: Israel carries out deadliest airstrike in Syria, kills 57 people

Islamic State group fighters killed at least seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria on Saturday.

The attack came as the militia fighters were sweeping the town of Al-Shola for jihadist remnants. This is the latest in a series of deadly jihadist attacks.

"Seven members of the National Defence Forces, a pro-regime militia, were killed in clashes with an IS sleeper cell in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The death toll is expected to climb, as IS gunmen wounded several other militia fighters.

The region, near the border with Iraq, was formerly a stronghold of the jihadist group.&nbsp;

Last week, the Observatory said IS gunmen in central Syria had ambushed a bus carrying government soldiers in the Wadi al-Azib area of Hama province. The ambush late Sunday resulted in the deaths of eight soldiers, four allied fighters and three civilians, the Observatory said.&nbsp;

The IS was behind a December 30 bus ambush in Deir Ezzor province, which killed at least 37 Syrian soldiers.

IS in 2014 overran large parts of Syria and Iraq and proclaimed a cross-border "caliphate" before multiple offensives in the two countries led to its territorial defeat.

The group was overcome in Syria in March 2019, but sleeper cells continue to launch attacks in the vast Badia desert running from central Syria eastwards to the border with Iraq.

The Observatory says IS attacks have since March 2019 killed more than 1,100 pro-regime fighters, including Syrian troops and foreign paramilitaries.&nbsp;

More than 387,000 people have been killed and millions forced from their homes since Syria's civil war broke out in 2011.

Islamic State group fighters killed at least seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria on Saturday. The attack came as the militia fighters were sweeping the town of Al-Shola for jihadist remnants.

Islamic State group fighters killed at least seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria on Saturday. The attack came as the militia fighters were sweeping the town of Al-Shola for jihadist remnants. This is the latest in a series of deadly jihadist attacks. "Seven members of the National Defence Forces, a pro-regime militia, were killed in clashes with an IS sleeper cell in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. The death toll is expected to climb, as IS gunmen wounded several other militia fighters. The region, near the border with Iraq, was formerly a stronghold of the jihadist group. Last week, the Observatory said IS gunmen in central Syria had ambushed a bus carrying government soldiers in the Wadi al-Azib area of Hama province. The ambush late Sunday resulted in the deaths of eight soldiers, four allied fighters and three civilians, the Observatory said. The IS was behind a December 30 bus ambush in Deir Ezzor province, which killed at least 37 Syrian soldiers. IS in 2014 overran large parts of Syria and Iraq and proclaimed a cross-border "caliphate" before multiple offensives in the two countries led to its territorial defeat. The group was overcome in Syria in March 2019, but sleeper cells continue to launch attacks in the vast Badia desert running from central Syria eastwards to the border with Iraq. The Observatory says IS attacks have since March 2019 killed more than 1,100 pro-regime fighters, including Syrian troops and foreign paramilitaries. More than 387,000 people have been killed and millions forced from their homes since Syria's civil war broke out in 2011.

IS attack kills seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria

Islamic State group jihadists killed 37 soldiers when they ambushed a bus Wednesday in one of the deadliest attacks since the fall of their "caliphate" last year, a monitor said.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attack in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor targeted the regime soldiers as they travelled home for holidays.

The official news agency SANA reported that a "terrorist attack" on a bus killed "25 citizens" and wounded 13.

IS overran large parts of Syria and Iraq and proclaimed a cross-border "caliphate" in 2014, before multiple offensives in the two countries led to its territorial defeat.

The group was overcome in Syria in March last year, but sleeper cells continue to launch attacks namely in the vast desert that stretches from the central province of Homs to Deir Ezzor and the border with Iraq.

"It was one of the deadliest attacks since the fall of the IS (self-proclaimed) caliphate" last year, Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP, referring to Wednesday's bus ambush.

Abdel Rahman said the bus was attacked near the village of Shula by jihadists who detonated roadside bombs before opening fire on the soldiers who belonged to the army's 4th division.

At least 37 soldiers were killed, including eight officers, and 12 others wounded, the war monitor said in an updated toll, adding that some of those injured were in "critical condition".

Two other buses which were part of the convoy managed to escape, the Observatory said.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

In December 2017, Iraq's then prime minister Haider al-Abadi announced a final victory against the IS and the group lost the last shred of their so-called caliphate in Syria in March 2019.

But sleeper cells have retained their ability to strike despite losing the territory they once held in both Iraq and Syria, operating mostly in the vast desert between the two countries.

In recent months Syria's Badia desert was the scene of regular clashes between the jihadists and Russian-backed Syrian regime forces.

In April, 27 fighters loyal to the Damascus government and allied Iran-backed militiamen were killed in an IS attack near the desert city of Al-Sukhna which is under regime control.

The war in Syria has killed more than 387,000 people since it started in 2011, the Observatory says.

The dead include more than 130,500 pro-government fighters, among them foreigners.

And since March 2019 more than 1,300 Syrian soldiers and allied pro-Iranian militiamen and over 600 IS fighters have been killed, according to the Observatory.

Islamic State group jihadists killed 37 soldiers when they ambushed a bus Wednesday in one of the deadliest attacks since the fall of their "caliphate" last year, a monitor said.

Islamic State group jihadists killed 37 soldiers when they ambushed a bus Wednesday in one of the deadliest attacks since the fall of their "caliphate" last year, a monitor said. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attack in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor targeted the regime soldiers as they travelled home for holidays. The official news agency SANA reported that a "terrorist attack" on a bus killed "25 citizens" and wounded 13. IS overran large parts of Syria and Iraq and proclaimed a cross-border "caliphate" in 2014, before multiple offensives in the two countries led to its territorial defeat. The group was overcome in Syria in March last year, but sleeper cells continue to launch attacks namely in the vast desert that stretches from the central province of Homs to Deir Ezzor and the border with Iraq. "It was one of the deadliest attacks since the fall of the IS (self-proclaimed) caliphate" last year, Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP, referring to Wednesday's bus ambush. Abdel Rahman said the bus was attacked near the village of Shula by jihadists who detonated roadside bombs before opening fire on the soldiers who belonged to the army's 4th division. At least 37 soldiers were killed, including eight officers, and 12 others wounded, the war monitor said in an updated toll, adding that some of those injured were in "critical condition". Two other buses which were part of the convoy managed to escape, the Observatory said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack. In December 2017, Iraq's then prime minister Haider al-Abadi announced a final victory against the IS and the group lost the last shred of their so-called caliphate in Syria in March 2019. But sleeper cells have retained their ability to strike despite losing the territory they once held in both Iraq and Syria, operating mostly in the vast desert between the two countries. In recent months Syria's Badia desert was the scene of regular clashes between the jihadists and Russian-backed Syrian regime forces. In April, 27 fighters loyal to the Damascus government and allied Iran-backed militiamen were killed in an IS attack near the desert city of Al-Sukhna which is under regime control. The war in Syria has killed more than 387,000 people since it started in 2011, the Observatory says. The dead include more than 130,500 pro-government fighters, among them foreigners. And since March 2019 more than 1,300 Syrian soldiers and allied pro-Iranian militiamen and over 600 IS fighters have been killed, according to the Observatory.

IS bus ambush kills 37 soldiers in Syria

Syrian refugee camp in northern Lebanon was set on fire on Saturday night after a fight between members of the camp and a local Lebanese family, said state media. United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, confirmed that a large fire had broken out in the camp and that the injured were taken to the hospital. The refugee camp is located in Miniyeh region of Lebanon.

"The fire has spread to all the tented shelters" -- made of plastic sheeting and wood -- UNHCR spokesman Khaled Kabbara told AFP.&nbsp;

The camp housed around 75 families, he said.

Lebanon's army said it had arrested 8 people in connection with the incident. Two of the arrested are Lebanese while six are Syrians.

"The Lebanese men fired bullets in the air and torched the tents of Syrian refugees," it said.

Lebanon's National News Agency earlier&nbsp;reported that the fire started after "altercation" between a member of a Lebanese family and "Syrian workers"

Other youths from the Lebanese family then "set fire to some of the refugees' tents", the NNA added.&nbsp;

The report said that Lebanese Civil Defence fought the blaze while army and police were deployed to restore calm.

A security source told AFP that the fight in the Bhanine area was sparked when Syrian workers demanded a wage which their employers refused to pay.

However, the same source said later that initial inquiries found the dispute could have been sparked by the harassment of a Syrian woman. &nbsp;

Lebanon says it hosts some 1.5 million Syrians, including around one million registered as refugees with the United Nations.

Authorities have called on refugees to return to Syria even though rights groups warn that the war-torn country is not yet safe.

(With AFP inputs)

Syrian refugee camp in northern Lebanon was set on fire on Saturday night after a fight between members of the camp and a local Lebanese family, said state media.

Syrian refugee camp in northern Lebanon was set on fire on Saturday night after a fight between members of the camp and a local Lebanese family, said state media. United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, confirmed that a large fire had broken out in the camp and that the injured were taken to the hospital. The refugee camp is located in Miniyeh region of Lebanon. "The fire has spread to all the tented shelters" -- made of plastic sheeting and wood -- UNHCR spokesman Khaled Kabbara told AFP. The camp housed around 75 families, he said. Lebanon's army said it had arrested 8 people in connection with the incident. Two of the arrested are Lebanese while six are Syrians. "The Lebanese men fired bullets in the air and torched the tents of Syrian refugees," it said. Lebanon's National News Agency earlier reported that the fire started after "altercation" between a member of a Lebanese family and "Syrian workers" Other youths from the Lebanese family then "set fire to some of the refugees' tents", the NNA added. The report said that Lebanese Civil Defence fought the blaze while army and police were deployed to restore calm. A security source told AFP that the fight in the Bhanine area was sparked when Syrian workers demanded a wage which their employers refused to pay. However, the same source said later that initial inquiries found the dispute could have been sparked by the harassment of a Syrian woman. Lebanon says it hosts some 1.5 million Syrians, including around one million registered as refugees with the United Nations. Authorities have called on refugees to return to Syria even though rights groups warn that the war-torn country is not yet safe. (With AFP inputs)

Lebanon: Syrian refugee camp set on fire after fight between refugees and locals

Syrian state news agency SANA said on Friday that Syria's air defences intercepted missiles fired by Israel. The missiles were reportedly fired on the western province of Hama.

"Our air defences intercepted an Israeli attack on the Masyaf area" in rural Hama, SANA reported.

Syrian state TV aired footage purporting to show air defences responding to the Israeli attack.

As per AFP, Israeli warplanes were heard flying over neighbouring Lebanon just before the strikes.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also reported strikes on Masyaf, saying Israel was "likely responsible".

The war monitor said the attack targeted "positions of regime forces and Iran-backed militias," without providing additional details.&nbsp;

Israel, which did not immediately comment on the reports, has launched hundreds of strikes in Syria since the start of the civil war in 2011.

It has targeted government troops, allied Iranian forces and fighters from the Lebanese Shiite militant group Hezbollah.

It rarely confirms details of its operations in Syria, but says Iran's presence in support of President Bashar al-Assad is a threat and that it will continue its strikes.

(With AFP inputs)

Syrian state news agency SANA said on Friday that Syria's air defences intercepted missiles fired by Israel. The missiles were reportedly fired on the western province of Hama.

Syrian state news agency SANA said on Friday that Syria's air defences intercepted missiles fired by Israel. The missiles were reportedly fired on the western province of Hama. "Our air defences intercepted an Israeli attack on the Masyaf area" in rural Hama, SANA reported. Syrian state TV aired footage purporting to show air defences responding to the Israeli attack. As per AFP, Israeli warplanes were heard flying over neighbouring Lebanon just before the strikes. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also reported strikes on Masyaf, saying Israel was "likely responsible". The war monitor said the attack targeted "positions of regime forces and Iran-backed militias," without providing additional details. Israel, which did not immediately comment on the reports, has launched hundreds of strikes in Syria since the start of the civil war in 2011. It has targeted government troops, allied Iranian forces and fighters from the Lebanese Shiite militant group Hezbollah. It rarely confirms details of its operations in Syria, but says Iran's presence in support of President Bashar al-Assad is a threat and that it will continue its strikes. (With AFP inputs)

Israeli strike intercepted in Syria, says Syrian state media

In the past few years, Israel has acknowledged carrying out dozens of airstrikes in Syria, most of them aimed at suspected Iranian weapons shipments believed to be bound for Hezbollah.

Israeli jets fly over Beirut, explosions reported in Syria

Germany and Finland said Sunday they had repatriated 23 of their nationals, women and children, from Syria, some of whom were under criminal investigation for allegedly belonging to the Islamic State group.

"I am very relieved that we were able to repatriate another 12 children and three mothers from camps in northeastern Syria yesterday," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said in a statement.

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Maas said the repatriations were "humanitarian cases, primarily orphans and children who were ill -– cases in which a repatriation was deemed particularly necessary and urgent."

He added that it is not legally possible to repatriate children without their mothers.

For its part, the Finnish foreign ministry said that it had brought home six children and two adult mothers.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-africa-has-become-the-new-jihadist-battleground-350563">Why Africa has become the new jihadist battleground</a>

"Under the constitution, Finnish public authorities are obligated to safeguard the basic rights of the Finnish children interned in the camps insofar as this is possible," it said.&nbsp;

"The basic rights of the children interned in the al-Hol camps can be safeguarded only by repatriating them to Finland".

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According to Helsinki, more than 9,000 foreign women and children, two-thirds of them children, are still being held in the al-Hol and Roj camps in northeastern Syria, housing suspected Islamic State family members and sympathisers.

Many European nations have resisted repatriating their nationals from the camps, because of the security risks, it said.&nbsp;

According to German media reports, the three repatriated German women are aged between 21 and 38 and the children are aged between two and 12.&nbsp;

The group resided in a refugee camp under Kurdish control.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-finland-repatriate-citizens-from-syria-terrorist-camps-351344">WATCH|</a>

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The three women were "wives of jihadists" of the Islamic State group and "are in very poor health," a spokesman for the Kurdish administration's foreign relations office, Kamal Akif, told AFP.&nbsp;

One of the German women was detained on arrival in Frankfurt, a statement by the anti-terrorist prosecutors' office said.

As well as allegedly belonging to the Islamic State group, the woman, identified as Leonora M. and aged 21, is suspected of using a young Yazidi woman as a slave.&nbsp;

Her husband was a member of the Islamic State group's "secret services", the prosecutor said.&nbsp;

Germany and Finland said Sunday they had repatriated 23 of their nationals, women and children, from Syria, some of whom were under criminal investigation for allegedly belonging to the Islamic State group.

Germany and Finland said Sunday they had repatriated 23 of their nationals, women and children, from Syria, some of whom were under criminal investigation for allegedly belonging to the Islamic State group. "I am very relieved that we were able to repatriate another 12 children and three mothers from camps in northeastern Syria yesterday," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said in a statement. Also read| Yemen at highest risk of humanitarian catastrophe in 2021, warns IRC Maas said the repatriations were "humanitarian cases, primarily orphans and children who were ill -– cases in which a repatriation was deemed particularly necessary and urgent." He added that it is not legally possible to repatriate children without their mothers. For its part, the Finnish foreign ministry said that it had brought home six children and two adult mothers. Also read| Why Africa has become the new jihadist battleground "Under the constitution, Finnish public authorities are obligated to safeguard the basic rights of the Finnish children interned in the camps insofar as this is possible," it said. "The basic rights of the children interned in the al-Hol camps can be safeguarded only by repatriating them to Finland". Also read: Saudi-led coalition bombs Yemen rebel sites after Aramco attack According to Helsinki, more than 9,000 foreign women and children, two-thirds of them children, are still being held in the al-Hol and Roj camps in northeastern Syria, housing suspected Islamic State family members and sympathisers. Many European nations have resisted repatriating their nationals from the camps, because of the security risks, it said. According to German media reports, the three repatriated German women are aged between 21 and 38 and the children are aged between two and 12. The group resided in a refugee camp under Kurdish control. WATCH| × The three women were "wives of jihadists" of the Islamic State group and "are in very poor health," a spokesman for the Kurdish administration's foreign relations office, Kamal Akif, told AFP. One of the German women was detained on arrival in Frankfurt, a statement by the anti-terrorist prosecutors' office said. As well as allegedly belonging to the Islamic State group, the woman, identified as Leonora M. and aged 21, is suspected of using a young Yazidi woman as a slave. Her husband was a member of the Islamic State group's "secret services", the prosecutor said.

Germany, Finland to repatriate women, children from Syria

Germany and Finland have repatriated 23 of their nationals mostly women and children from Syria some of them under criminal investigation allegdly belonging to the islamic state terror group.

Germany, Finland repatriate citizens from Syria terrorist camps

Arab Spring's 10th anniversary: What was 21st century's biggest movement all about?

More than 45,000 refugees have crossed into neighbouring Sudan, while many more have been displaced within Tigray

An act of kindness: Kanoush devotes his free time helping other Ethiopian refugees

Syrian students helping supply clean water to thousands of Ethiopian refugees in Sudan through his volunteer work. University student now wants to tell people that refugees can make a change in any country.

Your Story: Syrian refugees help Ethiopians with supply of clean water to camps

A senior member of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Commander was killed in a strike at the Iraq-Syria border.

Report: Iranian revolutionary guard Commander killed by drone strike in Syria

According to reports, a Iranian revolutionary guards commander killed near Syria-Iraq border. The commander is yet to be identify but reports said that he was killed alongside three other men who were travelling with him in the same vehicle.

Reports: Iranian revolutionary guards commander killed near Syria-Iraq border

An award-winning Syrian photojournalist, who was wounded in a Paris protest against police brutality said on Sunday that his ordeal reminded him of the civil war in his home country.

Ameer al-Halbi, a freelance photographer who has previously worked for AFP, was trapped for several hours after getting hurt. He was unable to go to hospital despite receiving head wounds.

AFP quoted a police source tp say that an internal administrative inquiry had been opened to determine the circumstances under which al-Halbi was hurt in the protests.

"I am better this morning," said al-Halbi, who won several international awards for his coverage of the Syrian conflict in his home city of Aleppo for AFP.

"But the shock was very heavy, especially yesterday when I found myself wounded, bleeding heavily in my face and stuck for two hours in the demonstration -- wedged between demonstrators and the police who did not want to let us out to get to hospital," he told AFP.

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"Images of Syria surged back into my head... I was aged 15 when I found myself blocked in a demonstration in Aleppo, wounded by two bullets in my hand. It was Aleppo that came back to me last (Saturday) night."

He said that when police had began a charge to disperse the crowds in Paris he was in a group of four to five photographers who were "clearly recognisable" as such.

Al-Halbi, who has also worked for Polka magazine, was seen with a bruised face and much of his head covered in bandages in AFP photos.

Christophe Deloire, secretary general of Reporters Without Borders, tweeted that the 24-year-old had been wounded at Place de la Bastille by "a police baton".

Polka Magazine and AFP both condemned the incident in statements Sunday.

"We are shocked by the injuries suffered by our colleague Ameer al-Halbi and condemn the unprovoked violence," said Phil Chetwynd, AFP's global news director, demanding that the police investigate the incident.

A statement from Polka magazine also condemned the "police aggression" against Alhalbi.

The magazine's Director of Publication Alain Genestar said the incident was "all the more shocking and reprehensible" because he was clearly identified as a press photographer.

Al-Halbi won second prize in the "Spot News" category for the World Press Photo in 2017.

(With AFP inputs)

An award-winning Syrian photojournalist, who was wounded in a Paris protest against police brutality said on Sunday that his ordeal reminded him of the civil war in his home country.

An award-winning Syrian photojournalist, who was wounded in a Paris protest against police brutality said on Sunday that his ordeal reminded him of the civil war in his home country. Ameer al-Halbi, a freelance photographer who has previously worked for AFP, was trapped for several hours after getting hurt. He was unable to go to hospital despite receiving head wounds. AFP quoted a police source tp say that an internal administrative inquiry had been opened to determine the circumstances under which al-Halbi was hurt in the protests. "I am better this morning," said al-Halbi, who won several international awards for his coverage of the Syrian conflict in his home city of Aleppo for AFP. "But the shock was very heavy, especially yesterday when I found myself wounded, bleeding heavily in my face and stuck for two hours in the demonstration -- wedged between demonstrators and the police who did not want to let us out to get to hospital," he told AFP. × "Images of Syria surged back into my head... I was aged 15 when I found myself blocked in a demonstration in Aleppo, wounded by two bullets in my hand. It was Aleppo that came back to me last (Saturday) night." He said that when police had began a charge to disperse the crowds in Paris he was in a group of four to five photographers who were "clearly recognisable" as such. Al-Halbi, who has also worked for Polka magazine, was seen with a bruised face and much of his head covered in bandages in AFP photos. Christophe Deloire, secretary general of Reporters Without Borders, tweeted that the 24-year-old had been wounded at Place de la Bastille by "a police baton". Polka Magazine and AFP both condemned the incident in statements Sunday. "We are shocked by the injuries suffered by our colleague Ameer al-Halbi and condemn the unprovoked violence," said Phil Chetwynd, AFP's global news director, demanding that the police investigate the incident. A statement from Polka magazine also condemned the "police aggression" against Alhalbi. The magazine's Director of Publication Alain Genestar said the incident was "all the more shocking and reprehensible" because he was clearly identified as a press photographer. Al-Halbi won second prize in the "Spot News" category for the World Press Photo in 2017. (With AFP inputs)

Paris: Wounded photographer says protests brought back Syria memories

Uzbekistan plans to repatriate another group of its citizens, mostly women and children, from Syria where they are staying at crowded camps with other families of Islamic State fighters, an Uzbek government source told Reuters on Friday.

A government delegation from Tashkent has visited the Al-Hol and Roj camps in the Kurdish-controlled part of Syria and met over 100 Uzbeks staying there to discuss their return home, the source said.

Most of those people are women and children under three years of age who "live in deplorable conditions and have difficulties with access to drinking water, food and medical care", according to the source.

Kurdish fighters have seized much of northern and eastern Syria from Islamic State and have since held thousands of militants in prisons, while their wives and children - numbering tens of thousands - are living in camps.

Al-Hol camp alone houses nearly 65,000 people, including about 28,000 Syrians, 30,000 Iraqis and some 10,000 other foreigners of many nationalities, according to U.N. estimates.

UNICEF said in August eight children had died in al-Hol, where it said children from 60 countries were languishing and COVID-19 infections among camp workers had worsened conditions.

Thousands of people from the predominantly Muslim region of Central Asia, where Uzbekistan is the most populous nation, are believed to have joined Islamic State, with men often bringing their families along.

Uzbekistan repatriated 220 women and children from Syria last year who then enrolled in a programme aimed at their rehabilitation, the government has said.

Uzbekistan plans to repatriate another group of its citizens, mostly women and children, from Syria where they are staying at crowded camps with other families of Islamic State fighters, an Uzbek government source told Reuters on Friday.

Uzbekistan plans to repatriate another group of its citizens, mostly women and children, from Syria where they are staying at crowded camps with other families of Islamic State fighters, an Uzbek government source told Reuters on Friday. A government delegation from Tashkent has visited the Al-Hol and Roj camps in the Kurdish-controlled part of Syria and met over 100 Uzbeks staying there to discuss their return home, the source said. Most of those people are women and children under three years of age who "live in deplorable conditions and have difficulties with access to drinking water, food and medical care", according to the source. Kurdish fighters have seized much of northern and eastern Syria from Islamic State and have since held thousands of militants in prisons, while their wives and children - numbering tens of thousands - are living in camps. Al-Hol camp alone houses nearly 65,000 people, including about 28,000 Syrians, 30,000 Iraqis and some 10,000 other foreigners of many nationalities, according to U.N. estimates. UNICEF said in August eight children had died in al-Hol, where it said children from 60 countries were languishing and COVID-19 infections among camp workers had worsened conditions. Thousands of people from the predominantly Muslim region of Central Asia, where Uzbekistan is the most populous nation, are believed to have joined Islamic State, with men often bringing their families along. Uzbekistan repatriated 220 women and children from Syria last year who then enrolled in a programme aimed at their rehabilitation, the government has said.

Uzbekistan to repatriate more citizens from crowded Syrian camps

Syria's war forced the Diab family to flee their village of Kafr Zita in central Hama province.

Displaced Syrian teen recreates lost family home

Israeli air strikes in Syria overnight killed at least eight fighters operating in pro-Iran militias, authorities informed on Wednesday.

The strikes targetted an arms depot and a position held by Iranian forces and their Lebanese ally Hezbollah near the capital Damascus, and a pro-Iran militia position in southern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Syrian state media SANA earlier said an air strike by "the Zionist enemy" had hit an area "south of Damascus" just before midnight local time.

SANA also reported another strike against the village of Rwihinah in the southern province of Quneitra near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, without reporting any casualties from either attack.&nbsp;

Israel has carried out hundreds of air and missile strikes on Syria, targetting government troops as well as Iranian and Lebanese Hezbollah forces which support President Bashar al-Assad's regime.

Last week, Israeli warplanes struck Iranian targets in Syria, in what the Israeli army called a retaliatory attack for what it said were explosive devices found near one of its bases on the Golan Heights.

SANA said those strikes had killed three Syrian soldiers, while the Observatory said seven allied foreign fighters also died.

On Saturday night, air strikes killed 14 pro-Iran militia fighters from Iraq and Afghanistan in eastern Syria, the Observatory said, adding they were likely Israeli air raids.

Syria's war has killed more than 380,000 people and displaced millions more since starting in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Israeli air strikes in Syria overnight killed at least eight fighters operating in pro-Iran militias, authorities informed on Wednesday. The strikes targetted an arms depot and a position held by Iranian forces and their Lebanese ally Hezbollah near the capital Damascus, and a pro-Iran militia position in southern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Israeli air strikes in Syria overnight killed at least eight fighters operating in pro-Iran militias, authorities informed on Wednesday. The strikes targetted an arms depot and a position held by Iranian forces and their Lebanese ally Hezbollah near the capital Damascus, and a pro-Iran militia position in southern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Syrian state media SANA earlier said an air strike by "the Zionist enemy" had hit an area "south of Damascus" just before midnight local time. SANA also reported another strike against the village of Rwihinah in the southern province of Quneitra near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, without reporting any casualties from either attack. Israel has carried out hundreds of air and missile strikes on Syria, targetting government troops as well as Iranian and Lebanese Hezbollah forces which support President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Last week, Israeli warplanes struck Iranian targets in Syria, in what the Israeli army called a retaliatory attack for what it said were explosive devices found near one of its bases on the Golan Heights. SANA said those strikes had killed three Syrian soldiers, while the Observatory said seven allied foreign fighters also died. On Saturday night, air strikes killed 14 pro-Iran militia fighters from Iraq and Afghanistan in eastern Syria, the Observatory said, adding they were likely Israeli air raids. Syria's war has killed more than 380,000 people and displaced millions more since starting in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Israeli strikes in Syria kill eight pro-Iran fighters

France has asked Pakistan to take back comments that compared President Emmanuel Macron to Nazis. The comment was made by a Pakistani minister. British Finance Minister Rishi Sunak said that Christmas this year will not be 'normal' in light of coronavirus pandemic. In Syria, 14 pro-Iran militia fighters were killed in an Israeli airstrike, said a report. Afghan Vice President has vowed to track those behind Kabul terror attack. Read this and more.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blatant-lies-france-asks-pakistan-to-withdraw-comments-that-compared-macron-to-nazis-344721">'Blatant lies': France asks Pakistan to withdraw comments that compared Macron to Nazis</a>

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France's foreign ministry said that the remarks by the minister were 'hateful' and 'blatant lies', demanding Pakistan to 'rectify' the statements

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-normal-christmas-this-year-says-britains-finance-minister-rishi-sunak-344710">No 'normal' Christmas this year, says Britain's Finance Minister Rishi Sunak</a>

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Sunak's comments came after the government affirmed that there will be a tougher set of restrictions after the current lockdown ends on December 2

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-14-pro-iran-fighters-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-says-report-344707">Syria: 14 pro-Iran fighters killed in Israeli airstrikes, says report</a>

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More than 10 strikes hit positions of Iran-backed militias outside the border town of Albu Kamal

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Israel, which views Tehran as its biggest security threat, has repeatedly attacked Iranian targets and those of allied militia in Syria, where Tehran has backed President Bashar al-Assad and his forces against rebels and militants since 2012

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The attack that took place on Saturday saw rockets being fired in densely populated areas of Kabul, including in and around the heavily fortified Green Zone.

 
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<img alt="Coronavirus nasal spray" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37fe87de-3dc0-463b-a22b-ef764f1406c3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/nasal%20spray.JPG" />

 
If the technology turns out successful, other than coronavirus, infections like common cold and influenza can also be dealt with

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The two were also infamous for brutal murders, other than their 'honeytrap' killings

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Seasonal bird flu has been detected at various farms around the Netherlands since October, blamed mainly on migratory birds.

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The couple, who run the popular TikTok channel The Smithy Family, initially decided to buy 60 gifts for Christmas for needy people but were surprised to see how people supported their efforts

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Taiwan`s main opposition party the Kuomintang (KMT) rallied its supporters to join in the march for the first time, having mounted an increasingly strident campaign against the pork move, which it says threatens food safety.

France has asked Pakistan to take back comments that compared President Emmanuel Macron to Nazis. The comment was made by a Pakistani minister. British Finance Minister Rishi Sunak said that Christmas this year will not be 'normal' in light of coronavirus pandemic.

France has asked Pakistan to take back comments that compared President Emmanuel Macron to Nazis. The comment was made by a Pakistani minister. British Finance Minister Rishi Sunak said that Christmas this year will not be 'normal' in light of coronavirus pandemic. In Syria, 14 pro-Iran militia fighters were killed in an Israeli airstrike, said a report. Afghan Vice President has vowed to track those behind Kabul terror attack. Read this and more. 'Blatant lies': France asks Pakistan to withdraw comments that compared Macron to Nazis France's foreign ministry said that the remarks by the minister were 'hateful' and 'blatant lies', demanding Pakistan to 'rectify' the statements No 'normal' Christmas this year, says Britain's Finance Minister Rishi Sunak Sunak's comments came after the government affirmed that there will be a tougher set of restrictions after the current lockdown ends on December 2 Syria: 14 pro-Iran fighters killed in Israeli airstrikes, says report More than 10 strikes hit positions of Iran-backed militias outside the border town of Albu Kamal Iran warns Israel over its role in Syria Israel, which views Tehran as its biggest security threat, has repeatedly attacked Iranian targets and those of allied militia in Syria, where Tehran has backed President Bashar al-Assad and his forces against rebels and militants since 2012 Afghan VP vows to track those behind Kabul terror attack The attack that took place on Saturday saw rockets being fired in densely populated areas of Kabul, including in and around the heavily fortified Green Zone. Nasal spray that aims to fight Covid-19, other respiratory illness gets million-dollar funding If the technology turns out successful, other than coronavirus, infections like common cold and influenza can also be dealt with Women who killed Afghan official with promises of sex, released with Taliban prisoners The two were also infamous for brutal murders, other than their 'honeytrap' killings Dutch cull almost 200,000 chickens after bird flu outbreak Seasonal bird flu has been detected at various farms around the Netherlands since October, blamed mainly on migratory birds. Couple collects 5,000 gifts for donations this Christmas The couple, who run the popular TikTok channel The Smithy Family, initially decided to buy 60 gifts for Christmas for needy people but were surprised to see how people supported their efforts Thousands join annual Taiwan protest, anger focussed on US pork Taiwan`s main opposition party the Kuomintang (KMT) rallied its supporters to join in the march for the first time, having mounted an increasingly strident campaign against the pork move, which it says threatens food safety.

Top 10 World news: Macron fumes over 'Nazi' jibe, Iran warns Israel, and more!

At least 14 pro-Iran fighters from Afghanistan and Iraq were killed in airstrikes in eastern Syria, said Syrian Observatory of Human Rights. The airstrikes were carried out in the border province of Deir Ezzor on Saturday night. The Observatory said that the airstrikes were carried out by Israeli warplanes. The attacks have killed 8 Iraqis and 6 Afghan fighters.

Israeli army said it doesn't comment on foreign reports, as per AFP.

More than 10 strikes hit positions of Iran-backed militias outside the border town of Albu Kamal, according to the war monitor.

The attacks also destroyed two bases as well as several military vehicles, the Observatory added.

Iran-backed fighters are heavily deployed in a stretch of territory between the Syrian towns of Albu Kamal and Mayadeen, both former strongholds of the Islamic State group.

Along with Russia, Iran has been a key backer of the Damascus regime in its nine-year-long civil war.

Israel has carried out hundreds of air and missile strikes on Syria since the civil war broke out in 2011, targeting Iranian and Lebanese Hezbollah forces as well as government troops.

The Israeli army rarely acknowledges individual strikes.

Syria's war has killed more than 380,000 people and displaced millions more since starting in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

(With AFP inputs)

At least 14 pro-Iran fighters from Afghanistan and Iraq were killed in airstrikes in eastern Syria, said Syrian Observatory of Human Rights. The airstrikes were carried out in the border province of Deir Ezzor on Saturday night.

At least 14 pro-Iran fighters from Afghanistan and Iraq were killed in airstrikes in eastern Syria, said Syrian Observatory of Human Rights. The airstrikes were carried out in the border province of Deir Ezzor on Saturday night. The Observatory said that the airstrikes were carried out by Israeli warplanes. The attacks have killed 8 Iraqis and 6 Afghan fighters. Israeli army said it doesn't comment on foreign reports, as per AFP. More than 10 strikes hit positions of Iran-backed militias outside the border town of Albu Kamal, according to the war monitor. The attacks also destroyed two bases as well as several military vehicles, the Observatory added. Iran-backed fighters are heavily deployed in a stretch of territory between the Syrian towns of Albu Kamal and Mayadeen, both former strongholds of the Islamic State group. Along with Russia, Iran has been a key backer of the Damascus regime in its nine-year-long civil war. Israel has carried out hundreds of air and missile strikes on Syria since the civil war broke out in 2011, targeting Iranian and Lebanese Hezbollah forces as well as government troops. The Israeli army rarely acknowledges individual strikes. Syria's war has killed more than 380,000 people and displaced millions more since starting in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests. (With AFP inputs)

Syria: 14 pro-Iran fighters killed in Israeli airstrikes, says report

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