Analysis

With Sharaa's visit, UAE opens door to post-Assad Syria, but how far will it go?

Does renewed contact between the United Arab Emirates and Syria signal a deeper political alignment or a cautious attempt to manage regional dynamics without fully endorsing the new Syrian order?

By Francesco Schiavi

In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance

Exclusive

Syria's Kurds say Trump aid cuts are feeding radicalism in ISIS camps

In an interview at Syria’s Roj camp, the head of intelligence for the Women’s Protection Units warns that US funding cuts are fueling a resurgence of ISIS ideology among detained women and children, deepening an already volatile security crisis.

By Amberin Zaman

Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture

US weighs plans to slash troop presence in Syria by more than half

Fewer than 1,000 US troops could remain in the country in order to retain limited oversight of ISIS prisons controlled by Kurdish-led forces across the country’s northeast, according to officials briefed on the latest plans.

Syria

Lebanon’s PM Nawaf Salam makes first Syria visit, meets Sharaa as border tensions loom

The visit is the latest sign of an apparent effort to improve ties between Syria and Lebanon after the fall of the Assad regime.

Lebanon

Exclusive

Syrian Kurd commander: Aleppo power-sharing deal could be model for nation

In his first interview since signing a landmark agreement with Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, SDF commander General Mazloum Kobane speaks about ties with the transitional government in Damascus, the future of US troops in the region, and notes an "atmosphere of stability" amid a burgeoning detente with Turkey.

By Amberin Zaman

Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture

Syria’s Sharaa looks to boost ties with Turkey, Azerbaijan during Antalya visit

The new Syrian president was seeking international recognition at the Turkish forum, while Saudi and other Arab leaders met to discuss Gaza.

Syria

Interview

Syria's Kurds to demand federalism in tactical push for decentralization

Syrian Kurdish groups are uniting to push for federalism and constitutional guarantees of Kurdish rights in talks with Damascus, despite skepticism about interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s willingness to accept decentralization

Mohammed Ismail

President of the Kurdistan National Council

Fidan says Turkey-Israel deconfliction talks over Syria underway: What to know

As the two countries have initiated deconfliction talks, Israel sets a red line on military deployments near Palmyra.

Turkey

Feature

Syrian Jews urge US sanctions relief to revive ancient community

For Syria's Jewish diaspora, the country's economic crisis stands in the way of restoring their ancient heritage.

By Elizabeth Hagedorn

In Washington, DC, reporting on diplomacy, regional politics, human rights

Analysis

Israel expanding Syria operations: Buffer zone or open-ended campaign?

Syria's options for responding to Israeli military's actions are limited as the war-torn country seeks international acceptance, according to experts.

By Adam Lucente

In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change

Netanyahu set to meet Trump amid differences over Iran, tariffs and Turkey: What to know

In a surprise move, the US president invited the Israeli prime minister to Washington at short notice to discuss his recent tariff decision, the Iranian file and other issues.

United States

Analysis

​​Turkey's defense strategy in Syria: Stability, not confrontation with Israel

Turkey's military presence in Syria is focused on territorial integrity and regional security, which could align with long-term Israeli interests despite tensions between Turkey and Israel.

By Barin Kayaoglu

In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security