Archives for January, 2025

The horror of Saydnaya jail, symbol of Assad excesses

Agence France-Presse

Iranian plane, diplomat searched at Beirut airport: What we know

Supporters of Iran-backed Hezbollah protested the search of the Iranian diplomat's plane in Beirut.

Lebanon

Analysis

Israel's covert Syria operation signals planning for potential Iran strike

Israel has released details on its daring September commando operation in Syria in a message to Tehran that it is willing and able to do the same in Iran, with or without US participation.

By Ben Caspit

In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense

European ministers urge inclusive transition on Syria visit

Agence France-Presse

Iran artist's vision for culture hub enlivens rustic district

Agence France-Presse

Netanyahu authorises Israel negotiators to continue Doha hostage talks: office

Agence France-Presse

Rome, Tehran summon envoys over jailed reporter

Agence France-Presse

UN experts slam Israel's 'blatant assault' on health rights in Gaza

Agence France-Presse

Culture

After outrage, Syria's education minister clarifies curriculum changes: What to know

The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham-led transitional administration is working on imposing a list of modifications to what is taught in Syrian schools, including additions of Islamic content.

Syria

Iran marks fifth anniversary of general's killing

Agence France-Presse

Israel confirms Syria raid on Iran-funded missile factory in September

Agence France-Presse

Al-Monitor's top 10 most-read articles, interviews of 2024

From Assad's fall in Syria to Israel's wars in Lebanon and Gaza, Al-Monitor remains committed to bringing you unparalleled, independent coverage of the region, engaging with all voices to bring you the full story.

Palestine

Analysis

Turkey’s dual Syria security strategy: rebuilding army, tackling SDF

As it gains upper hand in Syria, Turkey will capitalize on its leverage to build a new army and push for dissolution of the PKK.

By Barin Kayaoglu

In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security

Gaza rescuers say Israeli strikes kill police chief, two dozen others

Agence France-Presse

Syrian delegation visits Saudi Arabia in first post-Assad trip: What we know

Syrian Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani is on his first foreign visit to Riyadh less than a month since Bashar al-Assad's fall, received by senior Saudi officials including the foreign and defense ministers.

Syria

Analysis

What's next for Gallant after Knesset resignation over ultra-Orthodox draft

Former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has made the battle against ultra-Orthodox exemptions from military service his key policy issue.

By Rina Bassist

In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs