Israel cautious on Lebanon withdrawal despite Netanyahu overtures, US push

The Trump administration is pressuring Netanyahu to make concessions to the Lebanese government in exchange for its efforts to disarm Hezbollah.

Israel

After weeks of threats, is Turkey softening line on Syrian SDF?

Turkey’s dialing down of rhetoric may be linked to ongoing Israel-Damascus security talks, an expert told Al-Monitor.  

Turkey

US eases export controls to boost Syria's recovery

The move is the Trump administration’s latest bid to assist the country's postwar reconstruction.

Syria

ACWA Power, TAQA among Saudi firms backing Syria's energy comeback

Some 14 years of civil war have wiped at least $800 billion from the country’s gross domestic product, according to UN figures.

Syria

Syria says six soldiers killed in Israeli drone strike as US pushes for security deal

There have been signs of progress in Israel-Syria talks, though tensions are flaring in the south and Syria has condemned a number of Israeli actions.

Syria

Syria partners with Nokia to rebuild digital infrastructure after years of war

The new Syrian government wants to expand internet access in the country after damage during the civil war and years of underinvestment due to sanctions.

Syria

Turkey’s pro-Kurdish DEM party to meet jailed PKK leader Ocalan 

The meeting will come as Ankara ramps up threats against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces to disarm.

Turkey

Analysis

Will Israel’s potential Syria security deal intensify its rivalry with Turkey?

Israeli experts warn that a security deal with Syria won’t ease tensions with Turkey or end the ongoing battle for regional influence.

By Ben Caspit

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

New Druze militia forms in Syria as Hijri calls for autonomy

Tensions are running high in southern Syria, despite government efforts to investigate the recent violence and deliver more aid.

Syria

Analysis

Turkey’s gamble: Syria defense deal signals long road to rebuilding forces

Experts say training police and army units could take years and billions, while Ankara seeks to curb SDF influence and expand its regional role.

By Barin Kayaoglu

In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security

Turkey launches military training for Syria’s new army: What to know

Ankara has launched training, consultancy and technical assistance support to Syrian troops, according to the Turkish Defense Ministry. 

Turkey

Nine bodies unearthed in Latakia mass grave, one of dozens found in post-Assad Syria

As part of the efforts by new Syrian authorities to bring justice to victims of the Assad regime, dozens of mass graves containing thousands of bodies — believed to be victims of former regime forces — have been discovered across Syria.

Syria