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Assad loyalists attacked coastal government forces in March, sparking four days of sectarian violence. (L24)
Assad loyalists attacked coastal government forces in March, sparking four days of sectarian violence. (L24)

UN absolves Syrian government in March coastal massacres

15 August 2025.  The 66-page report of the UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria, which investigated the violence of March, praised Syria’s dedication to justice, accountability, and transparency, and called the report a milestone in cooperation between Syria and the UN. The report’s conclusions mirrored many findings of Syria’s Independent National Inquiry, and affirms Syria’s path to accountability. Having free access to the affected regions, the UN determined that individuals within interim security forces were culpable for violence, but there was no evidence that the state directed those crimes.Read more at:  LEVANT 24

Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani. (L24:Social Media)
Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani. (L24:Social Media)

Syria welcomes UN report and opens new chapter of accountability and international trust

14 August 2025.  In a landmark letter, Syrian Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, commended Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro, Chair of the UN Commission of Inquiry, for the report on March coastal events. In his open letter, al-Shaibani welcomed the UN Commission’s findings and affirmed Syria’s commitment to reform, transparency, and justice. The letter marks an historic shift toward international cooperation and accountability, and underscores Syria’s resolve to heal, rebuild, and honor victims of violence.Read more at: LEVANT 24

The Heart of Syrian Cuisine

In Syria, where the culture has traditionally revolved around sharing food, gracious hosting and generosity have always been highly valued. Meals are seen as occasions for familial and communal closeness. The content of the cuisine was historically influenced by Syria’s unique geography. Lying at the crossroads of trade in the ancient world, interactions with neighbouring countries—along with those as distant as China and Rome—continuously fed into what became the national cuisine.

TOP: President Ahmad al-Sharaa greets delegates from Idleb to first in series of national meetings. (SANA) BOTTOM: Participants at Idleb meeting, August 13, 2025. (SANA)
TOP: President Ahmad al-Sharaa greets delegates from Idleb to first in series of national meetings. (SANA) BOTTOM: Participants at Idleb meeting, August 13, 2025. (SANA)

A new chapter of Syrian life begins with dialogue

13 August 25.  Honouring his commitment to engage in direct dialogue with the Syrian people and listen to their concerns, President Ahmad al-Sharaa met with community leaders and officials in Idleb. He acknowledged Idleb for its pioneering of institutions that form the new Damascus government, calling it “a fundamental pillar for launching the project of a modern national state in Syria.” A wide range of questions and concerns from participants elicited commitments from the president and information about plans for the country.Read more at: SANA

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safado, and US Envoy Thomas Barrack meet in Amman on Suwayda ceasefire. (ENAB BALADI)
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safado, and US Envoy Thomas Barrack meet in Amman on Suwayda ceasefire. (ENAB BALADI)

Tripartite working group formed to resolve Suwayda crisis

13 August 25.  Syria, Jordan, and the US formed a working group to support Syria’s efforts to consolidate the ceasefire in Suwayda and resolve the ongoing crisis. Damascus pledged continuing support for full investigations, cooperation with the UN, increasing humanitarian aid, restoring services, and fostering community reconciliation and civil peace, steps welcomed by the US. The joint statement affirmed Suwayda’s integral role in Syria and the importance of guaranteeing rights, representation, and inclusion of all Syrian peoples.Read more at:  ENAB BALADI

Crowds at 4 July Textiles Expo in the lead-up to the opening of 62nd Damascus International Fair. (Ministry of Economy and Industry - Facebook on ENAB BALADI)
Crowds at 4 July Textiles Expo in the lead-up to the opening of 62nd Damascus International Fair. (Ministry of Economy and Industry - Facebook on ENAB BALADI)

Damascus International Fair returns, revitalized after six-year hiatus

13 August 25.  The Damascus International Fair will open at Exhibition City on August 27th. Since its founding in 1954, this trade fair has been one of the most important in the Middle East and Arab region. It has been an historic hub for trade and culture, combining commercial activity with tourism and cultural events. Showcasing innovation, it invites international collaboration across diverse industries and sectors.Read more at:  SANA

Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani and Chinese Ambassador, Shi Hongwei. (SANA)
Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani and Chinese Ambassador, Shi Hongwei. (SANA)

China upholds Syria’s sovereignty

10 August 2025.  Syrian Foreign Minister and Chinese Ambassador to Syria met in Damascus to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss regional and global issues.  The ambassador affirmed China’s support for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and rejected foreign interference. Both sides stressed the importance of continued coordination to advance mutual interests for the benefit of their peoples.Read more at: SANA

State ministries and civic groups cooperate in initiative to unite the nation. (SANA)
State ministries and civic groups cooperate in initiative to unite the nation. (SANA)

Syria launches “Cleanliness is Culture,” a campaign to help restore the country

9 August 2025.  Syria’s Ministry of Culture launched a “Cleanliness is Culture” campaign, along with other government ministries and volunteer groups, to promote cleanliness as a daily civic value and a reflection of national pride.  Culture Minister, Mohammad Yassin al-Saleh, stated that Syria has regained its vitality and now needs to preserve its beauty and resources.  The campaign aims to promote cleanliness as an ethical behaviour that contributes to building a new Syria and fosters a sense of national belonging.Read more at: SANA

“Let’s Lead Technology,” a conference in Damascus, August 8, 2025. (ENAB BALADI)
“Let’s Lead Technology,” a conference in Damascus, August 8, 2025. (ENAB BALADI)

Syria and Silicon Valley meet to ignite robust tech revival

8 August 2025.  The SYNC25 II conference in Damascus united Syrian-American entrepreneurs, Silicon valley engineers, international tech experts, and global investors to spark innovation, job creation, and digital transformation in Syria. The lead organizer, Muyesser Taqi-Eddin, said the event aims to strengthen connections among Syrians and employ 25,000 people over five years. Government ministers in many spheres and entrepreneurs from different countries emphasized collaboration, infrastructure development, and Syria’s re-entry into the international tech landscape.Read more at: ENAB BALADI

From out of the Rubble, Life and Hope

The White Helmets lived the meaning of sacrifice—leaving their own families to save others under fire. “It’s hard to be away from your family,” one volunteer said, “but life requires sacrifice.” In a global culture that is shaped by the desire for personal comfort and that exhibits indifference to the suffering of others, their courage stands as a quiet challenge.

Signing ceremony for investment agreements at People’s Palace in Damascus, August 6, 2025. (Izz Aldien Alqasem – Anadolu Agency, on MEM, 6 August)
Signing ceremony for investment agreements at People’s Palace in Damascus, August 6, 2025. (Izz Aldien Alqasem – Anadolu Agency, on MEM, 6 August)

Foreign investments provide massive injection for Syria’s recovery

6 August 2025.  The formal lifting of US sanctions paved the way for signing investment agreements valued at $14 billion, spread among 12 strategic areas including infrastructure, transportation, and real estate. The head of the Syrian Investment Authority, Talal al-Hilali, called the agreements a ‘turning-point’ for Syria’s future. They include redeveloping Damascus International Airport to boost tourism, trade, and regional connectivity, reconstructing ports, and constructing a subway in Damascus.Read more at: ALJAZEERA

UK organizes emergency medical teams for Southern Syria with UN help. (Suwayda Governorate - Telegram)
UK organizes emergency medical teams for Southern Syria with UN help. (Suwayda Governorate - Telegram)

British Government provides urgently needed aid for Suwayda victims

6 August 2025.  The UK pledged £1.7 million ($2.2 million) in emergency aid for over 85,000 Syrians displaced by violence in Suwayda. Mobile medical teams will be deployed to affected towns and remote villages, through UK partnerships with humanitarian organizations, including the UN, which will supply medicines, food, and clean water. With the official resumption of UK-Syria diplomatic ties in July, the UK committed large sums to Syria’s recovery.Read more at: ENAB BALADI

Refugees with tech expertise returning from exile in Istanbul. (Tim Dunk)
Refugees with tech expertise returning from exile in Istanbul. (Tim Dunk)

Syrian tech talent returns to Damascus to spark tech-driven renewal 

5 August 2025.  Civil war refugees with tech expertise are returning home to rebuild Syria’s tech sector. They’re part of a growing movement to support entrepreneurs and investors in tech-driven startups and help to overhaul Syria’s digital infrastructure. Immediately after the fall of Assad, they launched a professional network in Damascus and held a tech summit to connect Syria’s emerging tech industry with Silicon Valley. They return to serve despite financial sacrifice.Read more at: RESTOFWORLD

Ministers from Syria, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Qatar inaugurate a landmark gas pipeline. (L24)
Ministers from Syria, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Qatar inaugurate a landmark gas pipeline. (L24)

Gas pipeline boosts Syria’s recovery along with regional solidarity

5 August 2025.  Syria, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Qatar cooperated in launching a natural gas pipeline supplying Azerbaijani gas to Syria via Turkey, funded by Qatar. Completed in record time, the project aims to revitalize Syria’s economy by improving the electricity supply for rebuilding the economy and people’s lives. The leaders hailed the project as a strategic step toward peace, stability, security, mutual trust, and cooperation, in place of division.Read more at: LEVANT 24

Joint UN Mission arrives in Suwayda along with 40 truckloads of aid. (ENAB BALADI)
Joint UN Mission arrives in Suwayda along with 40 truckloads of aid. (ENAB BALADI)

Desperately needed humanitarian support for Suwayda organized by UN

1 August 2025.  UN agencies arrived in Suwayda to provide aid and assess the humanitarian needs of masses of people displaced in the recent conflicts. In partnership with local and international humanitarian organizations, the aid convoy brought 40 truckloads of food, fuel, shelter materials, medical, hygiene and other critical supplies. Syria’s Justice Ministry formed a committee to investigate the unrest and move toward accountability.Read more at: ENAB BALADI

Syrian (left) and Russian (right) foreign ministers meet, July 31, 2025. (L24)
Syrian (left) and Russian (right) foreign ministers meet, July 31, 2025. (L24)

Syrian Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, visits Moscow to reset relations

31 July 2025.  In the first meeting since the ouster of Bashir Assad and his Russian allies, Asaad al-Shaibani meets with Sergei Lavrov and Vladimir Putin to renegotiate economic and defence agreements made by the Assad regime with Russia, and to assert the sovereignty of the new Syria. Al-Shaibani said the talks were “a necessary discussion … based on the lessons of the past, to formulate the future.” Russia offered support for Syria’s reconstruction through mutual agreements.Read more at: LEVANT24

Syrian and Jordanian communications officials discuss Syria’s reintegration into global organization. (Sami Smeirat-X on ENAB BALADI)
Syrian and Jordanian communications officials discuss Syria’s reintegration into global organization. (Sami Smeirat-X on ENAB BALADI)

Syria rejoins global telecom network signaling new openness

30 July 2025.  Ending over ten years of isolation, Syria rejoined the GSMA—a global association for mobile communications. The Ministry of Communications said the move, which will strengthen regional telecommunications cooperation, signifies a new openness.  Jordan will supply expertise in the digital arena, pivotal to Syria’s economic development.  Made possible by the lifting of sanctions, this step enables Syria to access global telecom services and conferences.Read more at: ENAB BALADI

Healing From Syria’s Past

Those who liberated Syria from dictatorship face the daunting task of uniting groups that have seen each other as enemies for generations. Ancient resentments and the desire for revenge cannot be erased overnight. The new government is seeking to establish trust in a land and region of the world where there has been little trust in those who ruled, where brutal leaders were frequently replaced by violent coups, and where dynasties held onto power through harsh and often cruel mechanisms of control.

SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi reveals agenda for talks about unification. (Al Arabiya-Screenshot, 29 July)
SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi reveals agenda for talks about unification. (Al Arabiya-Screenshot, 29 July)

Forthcoming talks in Paris arouse new hope for Syria’s military and political integration

29 July 2025.  Commander of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Abdi Mazloum, confirmed that upcoming Paris talks will focus on a mechanism for integrating the SDF into Syria’s Ministry of Defence. The goal will be deciding on the means to implement the agreement he signed in March with interim president al-Sharaa.  “We agree with the government on a unified Syria under one army and one flag,” Abdi said, while acknowledging unresolved issues. He welcomed Saudi Arabia’s role as a mediator.Read More at: ENAB BALADI

Saudi Investment Minister, Khalid Al Falih, led a 130 member delegation at landmark Saudi Syrian Investment Forum. (SANA)
Saudi Investment Minister, Khalid Al Falih, led a 130 member delegation at landmark Saudi Syrian Investment Forum. (SANA)

Over $6 billion in investments pledged for Syria’s economic revival

28 July 2025.  The Syrian-Saudi Investment Forum held in Damascus, under President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s patronage, is expected to have transformative impacts on Syria’s economy and society. The forum saw the signing of 47 agreements worth over $6 billion, spanning sectors ranging from energy, tourism, and infrastructure to agriculture, administration, and upgrading airports. The Saudi Minister of Investment, declared, “We are not building new bridges, we are reinforcing ancient ties.”Read More at: SANA

Elections chairman, Mohammed Taha al Ahmad, reports on electoral reforms to make Syria’s People’s Assembly more representative and responsive. (SANA)
Elections chairman, Mohammed Taha al Ahmad, reports on electoral reforms to make Syria’s People’s Assembly more representative and responsive. (SANA)

Syria aims for transparent and inclusive national elections in September

27 July 2025.  Following meetings with leading figures in diverse sectors of Syrian society, the chairman of the Higher Committee of People’s Assembly Elections presented recommendations for sweeping electoral reforms to President Ahmad al-Sharaa, who stressed the goal of overcoming division and sectarianism. The reforms aim to create a People’s Assembly “worthy of Syria’s leadership, land, and sacrifices,” the chairman said, one that will advance reconstruction and development. The elections will be monitored by local communities and international organizations.Read More at: SANA

His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, head of the Syriac Orthodox Church in the world, meets People’s Assembly election committee. (SANA)
His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, head of the Syriac Orthodox Church in the world, meets People’s Assembly election committee. (SANA)

Prominent Church leader calls People’s Assembly elections a milestone for Syria’s future

27 July 2025. Preparing for the upcoming People’s Assembly elections, Syria’s election committee is reaching out to leaders in all sectors of society to ensure inclusive representation. Among the religious leaders they met with, Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II affirmed his church’s support for the government’s path to national unity and the electoral process. He expressed the hope that members of parliament would be elected for their competence, experience, and ability to serve the nation, regardless of religious, sectarian, or ethnic affiliations.Read more at: SANA

Foreign Ministers of US, France and Syria meet in Paris confirming support for Syria’s transition (X-@USAMBTurkiye on Arab News site 25 July)
Foreign Ministers of US, France and Syria meet in Paris confirming support for Syria’s transition (X-@USAMBTurkiye on Arab News site 25 July)

France and the US stand united with Syria at critical time

25 July 2025.  At a pivotal meeting in Paris following the ceasefire in Suweyda, France and the US reaffirmed their shared commitment to guaranteeing a unified, stable, and sovereign Syria. Key agreements included accelerating the political transition, combating terrorism, fostering national reconciliation, and promoting accountability of combatants. The parties emphasized inclusive dialogue to heal divisions and support the building of a cohesive, secure future for all Syrians. Read more at:  SANA

Syria’s Minister of Information, Dr. Hamza al-Mustafa. (SANA)
Syria’s Minister of Information, Dr. Hamza al-Mustafa. (SANA)

Frustration with international media coverage of Syria’s transition

24 July 2025.  Syria’s information minister expressed deep dissatisfaction with international media outlets for their formulaic responses to the nation’s recovery. Despite unprecedented access to information and services granted by the ministry, in the hope of gaining objective coverage of a country undergoing a complex transition, he found that entrenched and biased views of Syria and the Middle East have persisted. The minister highlighted the profound responsibility of journalism, especially in critical times, “to pursue truth with integrity, and to remain open to facts, rather than clinging to ready-made judgments…”Read more at:  SANA

President Ahmad al-Sharaa addresses nation after securing the Suwayda (Sweida) ceasefire. (ENAB BALADI)
President Ahmad al-Sharaa addresses nation after securing the Suwayda (Sweida) ceasefire. (ENAB BALADI)

President announces ceasefire, pledging to protect all minorities and the rule of law

19 July 2025.  The Syrian president called Suwayda’s violence “a dangerous turning point,” stating the clashes “nearly spiralled out of control,” and crediting the state’s intervention for calming tensions. He blamed Israel for escalating the crisis and praised the US, along with Turkey, Jordan and neighbouring countries, for brokering the ceasefire. Affirming that Suwayda “remains an integral part of the Syrian state,” he added, “the Druze community forms a fundamental pillar of Syria’s national fabric.”Read more at: ENAB BALADI