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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Dec 11, 2024, 22:45:22 IST
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Syria Civil War Live Updates: Israeli ships destroyed Syrian fleet, defence minister says
Israeli airstrikes reportedly hit three Syrian military bases and other facilities, destroying helicopters and planes in one of the largest assaults since Bashar al-Assad's fall, Syrian sources quoted by Reuters said.
Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu reaffirmed the Golan Heights as permanently part of Israel. However, the US called Israel's actions beyond the Golan Heights "temporary" and urged adherence to the 1974 agreement, while the UN criticized Israel's presence in the buffer zone.
Also, Ousted Syrian president Assad's Baath party pledged to support a transitional phase post-Assad, emphasizing national unity.
Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu reaffirmed the Golan Heights as permanently part of Israel. However, the US called Israel's actions beyond the Golan Heights "temporary" and urged adherence to the 1974 agreement, while the UN criticized Israel's presence in the buffer zone.
Also, Ousted Syrian president Assad's Baath party pledged to support a transitional phase post-Assad, emphasizing national unity.
22:45 (IST) Dec 11
Berlin urges Israel, Turkey not to jeopardise Syria transition
Germany's foreign minister on Wednesday urged Israel and Turkey not to jeopardise a peaceful transition in Syria after the ousting of president Bashar al-Assad in an Islamist-led rebel offensive.
"We must not allow the internal Syrian dialogue process to be torpedoed from the outside," Annalena Baerbock told a Berlin press conference.
"Neighbours such as the Turkish and Israeli governments, which are asserting their security interests, must not jeopardise the process."
Since Assad's downfall, Israel has launched strikes on military sites in Syria ranging from weapons depots to naval vessels, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor.
Israel has also sent troops into a UN-patrolled buffer zone east of the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights.
Turkey meanwhile is worried Kurdish separatists could take advantage of Assad's ouster to extend their influence in Syria, where they have dominated a large northeastern area since 2012.
"We must not allow the internal Syrian dialogue process to be torpedoed from the outside," Annalena Baerbock told a Berlin press conference.
"Neighbours such as the Turkish and Israeli governments, which are asserting their security interests, must not jeopardise the process."
Since Assad's downfall, Israel has launched strikes on military sites in Syria ranging from weapons depots to naval vessels, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor.
Israel has also sent troops into a UN-patrolled buffer zone east of the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights.
Turkey meanwhile is worried Kurdish separatists could take advantage of Assad's ouster to extend their influence in Syria, where they have dominated a large northeastern area since 2012.
21:56 (IST) Dec 11
'Free again': Hope rises from war-scarred streets of Syria's Aleppo
In one of the few open shops on a main street in downtown Aleppo, Syrian shopkeeper Ramadan Dali wields his feather duster with gusto, standing on tip-toes so he can reach the windows.
Dali, a 70-year-old wearing a black felt hat, is ready for customers to come back, along with the hope that has returned to the streets of Syria's second largest city since it was retaken by rebels on their way to topple president Bashar al-Assad.
Aleppo was once Syria's economic capital, a vibrant northern city of two million people, popular with tourists and archaeologists.
But the city became the battleground of some of the fiercest fighting during the country's civil war, and was captured by Assad's forces in 2016 with support from Russia.
Aleppo still bears the scars from this violence, with many buildings standing empty, dusty curtains flapping in their cracked facades.
Dali, a 70-year-old wearing a black felt hat, is ready for customers to come back, along with the hope that has returned to the streets of Syria's second largest city since it was retaken by rebels on their way to topple president Bashar al-Assad.
Aleppo was once Syria's economic capital, a vibrant northern city of two million people, popular with tourists and archaeologists.
But the city became the battleground of some of the fiercest fighting during the country's civil war, and was captured by Assad's forces in 2016 with support from Russia.
Aleppo still bears the scars from this violence, with many buildings standing empty, dusty curtains flapping in their cracked facades.
21:56 (IST) Dec 11
Relatives of Syria's disappeared seek closure in Damascus morgues
In the corridors of Damascus's main hospitals, thousands of families have gathered for the foreboding mission of trying to find the bodies of loved ones captured years ago by the Syrian authorities.
"Where are our children?" women cried out as they grasped at the walls, desperate for closure after their years-long ordeal.
But no such closure was within reach for Yasmine Shabib, 37, who still could not locate her brother or father, both arrested in 2013.
Having travelled for more than four hours from the northwestern city of Idlib, the victorious rebels' wartime base, she had little hope of finding them alive.
But at very least, she hoped she would not leave without their bodies.
"Just open the prison vaults for us, we will search ourselves among the corpses," she said in tears.
"Where are our children?" women cried out as they grasped at the walls, desperate for closure after their years-long ordeal.
But no such closure was within reach for Yasmine Shabib, 37, who still could not locate her brother or father, both arrested in 2013.
Having travelled for more than four hours from the northwestern city of Idlib, the victorious rebels' wartime base, she had little hope of finding them alive.
But at very least, she hoped she would not leave without their bodies.
"Just open the prison vaults for us, we will search ourselves among the corpses," she said in tears.
20:34 (IST) Dec 11
Syria Civil War Live Updates: UN chief sees hope in Syria after end of Assad regime
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said there were signs of hope in Syria following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces over the weekend.
"As we speak, we are witnessing the reshaping of the Middle East. ... We also see some signs of hope, and signs of hope namely coming from the end of the Syrian dictatorship," Guterres said during a visit to South Africa on Wednesday.
Syria was one of the most oppressive police states in the Middle East during five decades of Assad family rule.
Guterres said after meeting South African foreign minister Ronald Lamola in the capital Pretoria that the United Nations was committed to a smooth transition of power in Syria.
"It's our duty to do everything to support different Syrian leaders in order to make sure that they come together, they are able to guarantee a smooth transition, an inclusive transition in which all Syrians can feel that they belong," Guterres told reporters. "The alternative doesn't make any sense."
"As we speak, we are witnessing the reshaping of the Middle East. ... We also see some signs of hope, and signs of hope namely coming from the end of the Syrian dictatorship," Guterres said during a visit to South Africa on Wednesday.
Syria was one of the most oppressive police states in the Middle East during five decades of Assad family rule.
Guterres said after meeting South African foreign minister Ronald Lamola in the capital Pretoria that the United Nations was committed to a smooth transition of power in Syria.
"It's our duty to do everything to support different Syrian leaders in order to make sure that they come together, they are able to guarantee a smooth transition, an inclusive transition in which all Syrians can feel that they belong," Guterres told reporters. "The alternative doesn't make any sense."
18:45 (IST) Dec 11
Syria's rebel leader says all involved in torturing detainees will not be pardoned
Syrian rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, better known Abu Mohammed al-Golani, said on Wednesday that all who were involved in torturing and killing detainees in Syrian prisons would not be pardoned.
"We will pursue them in Syria, and we ask countries to hand over those who fled so we can achieve justice," Golani said in a statement published on the Syrian state TV's Telegram channel.
"We will pursue them in Syria, and we ask countries to hand over those who fled so we can achieve justice," Golani said in a statement published on the Syrian state TV's Telegram channel.
18:24 (IST) Dec 11
Syria Civil War Live Updates: Syria shows risks for countries relying on Russia, says German minister
Developments in Syria demonstrate that countries with a strategic partnership with Russia can rely on Moscow only as long as they are of use to President Vladimir Putin, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said on Wednesday.
During a short visit to Jordan, Pistorius made a stop-over at the Al-Azraq air base on his way to Baghdad where he will discuss ways to help stabilise the region in the light of the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
The minister did not specify what the developments will mean for Germany's involvement in the region but said that its military missions in the Middle East, which include some 600 troops, would rather be ramped up than reduced.
As part of a U.S.-led coalition of some 70 countries, Germany has had troops in Iraq since 2015 to assist local forces trying to prevent a resurgence of Islamic State which in 2014 seized large swaths of Iraq and Syria but was later pushed back.
The Jordanian base Al-Azraq is used as logistics hub for the mission, and the German air force is launching air-to-air refueling missions from there.
Germany has also deployed some 300 troops to the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission that monitors the demarcation line with Israel, an area that has seen more than a year of hostilities between Israeli troops and Iran-backed Hezbollah fighters.
During a short visit to Jordan, Pistorius made a stop-over at the Al-Azraq air base on his way to Baghdad where he will discuss ways to help stabilise the region in the light of the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
The minister did not specify what the developments will mean for Germany's involvement in the region but said that its military missions in the Middle East, which include some 600 troops, would rather be ramped up than reduced.
As part of a U.S.-led coalition of some 70 countries, Germany has had troops in Iraq since 2015 to assist local forces trying to prevent a resurgence of Islamic State which in 2014 seized large swaths of Iraq and Syria but was later pushed back.
The Jordanian base Al-Azraq is used as logistics hub for the mission, and the German air force is launching air-to-air refueling missions from there.
Germany has also deployed some 300 troops to the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission that monitors the demarcation line with Israel, an area that has seen more than a year of hostilities between Israeli troops and Iran-backed Hezbollah fighters.
18:18 (IST) Dec 11
Syria Civil War Live Updates: Syrians head home from Turkey to 'a better life' after rebellion
Syrians lined up at the Turkish border on Wednesday to head home after rebels ousted President Bashar al-Assad, speaking of their expectations for a better life following what was for many a decade of hardship in Turkey.
"We have no one here. We are going back to Latakia, where we have family," said Mustafa as he prepared to enter Syria with his wife and three sons at the Cilvegozu border gate in southern Turkey. Dozens more Syrians were waiting to cross.
Mustafa fled Syria in 2012, a year after the conflict there began, to escape conscription into Assad's army. For years he did unregistered jobs in Turkey earning less than the minimum wage, he said.
"Now there's a better Syria. God willing, we will have a better life there," he said, expressing confidence in the new leadership in Syria as he watched over the family's belongings, clothes packed into sacks and a television set.
"We have no one here. We are going back to Latakia, where we have family," said Mustafa as he prepared to enter Syria with his wife and three sons at the Cilvegozu border gate in southern Turkey. Dozens more Syrians were waiting to cross.
Mustafa fled Syria in 2012, a year after the conflict there began, to escape conscription into Assad's army. For years he did unregistered jobs in Turkey earning less than the minimum wage, he said.
"Now there's a better Syria. God willing, we will have a better life there," he said, expressing confidence in the new leadership in Syria as he watched over the family's belongings, clothes packed into sacks and a television set.
16:33 (IST) Dec 11
Syria Civil War Live Updates: Qatar says to reopen embassy in Syria 'soon'
Qatar said on Wednesday that it would soon reopen its embassy in the Syrian capital Damascus after president Bashar al-Assad's ouster in an Islamist-led rebel offensive.
The Gulf country "will soon reopen its embassy in the sisterly Syrian Arab Republic after completing the necessary arrangements", foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said in a statement.
The move aimed to "strengthen the close historical fraternal ties between the two countries", said the statement.
It also sought to "enhance coordination with relevant authorities to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid currently provided by Qatar to the Syrian people" via an air bridge, it added.
Doha closed its diplomatic mission in Damascus and recalled its ambassador in July 2011 after an uprising against the Assad government turned into a civil war.
Unlike other Arab countries, Qatar never restored diplomatic ties with Syria under Assad, who was toppled over the weekend as Islamist-led rebels swept into the capital.
The Gulf country "will soon reopen its embassy in the sisterly Syrian Arab Republic after completing the necessary arrangements", foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said in a statement.
The move aimed to "strengthen the close historical fraternal ties between the two countries", said the statement.
It also sought to "enhance coordination with relevant authorities to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid currently provided by Qatar to the Syrian people" via an air bridge, it added.
Doha closed its diplomatic mission in Damascus and recalled its ambassador in July 2011 after an uprising against the Assad government turned into a civil war.
Unlike other Arab countries, Qatar never restored diplomatic ties with Syria under Assad, who was toppled over the weekend as Islamist-led rebels swept into the capital.
15:56 (IST) Dec 11
Syria Civil War Live Updates: Russia calls for rapid Syria stabilisation, criticises Israel
The Kremlin said Wednesday that it wanted to see rapid stabilisation in Syria, criticising Israeli strikes and its creation of a "buffer zone" along the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights.
Russia also said its military offensive on Ukraine remained its "absolute priority" amid questions over whether Moscow's almost three-year campaign there meant it could not support long-term ally Bashar al-Assad in the face of the lightning rebel offensive.
"We would like to see the situation in the country stabilised somehow as soon as possible," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.
He also condemned Israel's strikes on Syrian military installations and the establishment of a "buffer zone" as aggravating the crisis.
"The strikes, the actions in the Golan Heights and the buffer zone hardly contribute to the stabilisation of the situation in the already destabilised Syria," he said.
Russia was continuing to discuss the fate of its military infrastructure in the country with Syria's new leadership, Peskov said.
"We are in contact with those who control the situation in Syria. This is necessary since our (military) base and diplomatic mission are there," Peskov said.
Russia also said its military offensive on Ukraine remained its "absolute priority" amid questions over whether Moscow's almost three-year campaign there meant it could not support long-term ally Bashar al-Assad in the face of the lightning rebel offensive.
"We would like to see the situation in the country stabilised somehow as soon as possible," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.
He also condemned Israel's strikes on Syrian military installations and the establishment of a "buffer zone" as aggravating the crisis.
"The strikes, the actions in the Golan Heights and the buffer zone hardly contribute to the stabilisation of the situation in the already destabilised Syria," he said.
Russia was continuing to discuss the fate of its military infrastructure in the country with Syria's new leadership, Peskov said.
"We are in contact with those who control the situation in Syria. This is necessary since our (military) base and diplomatic mission are there," Peskov said.
15:50 (IST) Dec 11
Qatar says to reopen embassy in Syria 'soon
Qatar said on Wednesday that it would soon reopen its embassy in the Syrian capital Damascus after president Bashar al-Assad's ouster in an Islamist-led rebel offensive.
The Gulf country "will soon reopen its embassy in the sisterly Syrian Arab Republic after completing the necessary arrangements", foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said in a statement.
The Gulf country "will soon reopen its embassy in the sisterly Syrian Arab Republic after completing the necessary arrangements", foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said in a statement.
14:55 (IST) Dec 11
Assad's fall exposes secrets of dungeons, 'human slaughterhouse' in Syria
The first place Syrians turned to after the fall of their longtime tormentor, former president Bashar al-Assad, was the network of hidden dungeons and torture chambers, uncovering the dark secrets of what transpired behind the concrete walls of Damascus's security compound. Within the defense ministry's secured compound, various intelligence agencies, each tasked with monitoring ordinary Syrian civilians, ran their own underground prisons and interrogation chambers behind the fortified walls. The Syrian population lived in constant anxiety about being called for interrogation, uncertain if they would ever return home. Rebel fighters now control access points to the restricted area in the capital's Kafr Sousa neighbourhood, where security services maintained their central operations alongside administrative offices.
Read more13:54 (IST) Dec 11
Iran's Khamenei says toppling of Syria's Assad was result of US-Israeli plan
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Wednesday Iran had evidence that the toppling of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was a result of a plan by the US, Israel and one of Syria's neighbours that he did not name
12:58 (IST) Dec 11
Refugees return to Syria as caretaker prime minister appointed
Refugees from Syria's long civil war were making their way home on Wednesday, as a new interim prime minister said he had been appointed with the backing of the rebels who toppled President Bashar al-Assad.
US officials, engaging with rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), urged them not to assume automatic leadership of the country but instead run an inclusive process to form a transitional government.
The new government must "uphold clear commitments to fully respect the rights of minorities, facilitate the flow of humanitarian assistance to all in need, prevent Syria from being used as a base for terrorism or posing a threat to its neighbours," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.
HTS is a former al Qaeda affiliate that led the anti-Assad revolt and has lately downplayed its jihadist roots.
In a brief address on state television on Tuesday, Mohammed al-Bashir, a figure little known across most of Syria, said he would lead the interim authority until March 1.
"Today we held a cabinet meeting that included a team from the Salvation government that was working in Idlib and its vicinity, and the government of the ousted regime," he said.
Bashir ran the rebel-led Salvation Government before the 12-day lightning rebel offensive swept into Damascus.
Behind him were two flags - the green, black and white flag flown by opponents of Assad throughout the civil war, and a white flag with the Islamic oath of faith in black writing, typically flown in Syria by Sunni Islamist fighters.
US officials, engaging with rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), urged them not to assume automatic leadership of the country but instead run an inclusive process to form a transitional government.
The new government must "uphold clear commitments to fully respect the rights of minorities, facilitate the flow of humanitarian assistance to all in need, prevent Syria from being used as a base for terrorism or posing a threat to its neighbours," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.
HTS is a former al Qaeda affiliate that led the anti-Assad revolt and has lately downplayed its jihadist roots.
In a brief address on state television on Tuesday, Mohammed al-Bashir, a figure little known across most of Syria, said he would lead the interim authority until March 1.
"Today we held a cabinet meeting that included a team from the Salvation government that was working in Idlib and its vicinity, and the government of the ousted regime," he said.
Bashir ran the rebel-led Salvation Government before the 12-day lightning rebel offensive swept into Damascus.
Behind him were two flags - the green, black and white flag flown by opponents of Assad throughout the civil war, and a white flag with the Islamic oath of faith in black writing, typically flown in Syria by Sunni Islamist fighters.
12:55 (IST) Dec 11
What happened in Syria result of joint US and Israeli plan, says Iran leader Khameni
What happened in Syria result of joint US and Israeli plan, says Iran leader Khameni days after Bashar al-Azad ousted
07:12 (IST) Dec 11
75 Indians evacuated from Syria
India evacuated 75 Indian nationals from Syria, following recent developments in that country, said govt. The evacuees included 44 'zaireen' from J&K who were stranded at Saida Zainab. All Indian nationals have safely crossed over to Lebanon and will return by available commercial flights to India, said government. The evacuation, coordinated by the embassies of India in Damascus and Beirut, was put into effect following our assessment of the security situation and requests from Indian nationals in Syria.
Read more02:23 (IST) Dec 11
Israel says its air strikes destroyed most of Syria's strategic weapons stockpiles
Israel aims to impose a "sterile defence zone" in southern Syria that would be enforced without a permanent troop presence, Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday, as the military said a wave of air strikes had destroyed the bulk of Syria's strategic weapons stockpiles.
Over the past 48 hours, following the collapse of the government of President Bashar al-Assad, the military said jets had conducted more than 350 strikes on targets including anti-aircraft batteries, military airfields, weapons production sites, combat aircraft and missiles.
Over the past 48 hours, following the collapse of the government of President Bashar al-Assad, the military said jets had conducted more than 350 strikes on targets including anti-aircraft batteries, military airfields, weapons production sites, combat aircraft and missiles.
00:29 (IST) Dec 11
Netanyahu says Israel struck across Syria to knock out military assets
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Tuesday that the Israeli military carried out a wave of airstrikes across Syria, targeting remnants of the toppled government’s military capabilities. He emphasized that Israel seeks peaceful relations with the new government emerging in Syria.
Following the strikes, Netanyahu stated that Israel has no intention of interfering in Syria’s internal affairs but will act decisively to safeguard its security and prevent extremist groups from acquiring Syrian military assets.
Netanyahu issued a stern warning to the new Syrian leadership, saying, "If the new government allows Iran to re-establish itself in Syria, facilitates the transfer of Iranian weapons to Hezbollah, or launches attacks on us, we will respond forcefully and exact a heavy price."
The remarks were made in a video statement from the Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv, shortly after Netanyahu concluded his first day of testimony in his ongoing corruption trial.
Following the strikes, Netanyahu stated that Israel has no intention of interfering in Syria’s internal affairs but will act decisively to safeguard its security and prevent extremist groups from acquiring Syrian military assets.
Netanyahu issued a stern warning to the new Syrian leadership, saying, "If the new government allows Iran to re-establish itself in Syria, facilitates the transfer of Iranian weapons to Hezbollah, or launches attacks on us, we will respond forcefully and exact a heavy price."
The remarks were made in a video statement from the Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv, shortly after Netanyahu concluded his first day of testimony in his ongoing corruption trial.
23:59 (IST) Dec 10
Syria will 'pay heavy price' for hosting Iran or arming Hezbollah, says Israeli PM Netanyahu
23:47 (IST) Dec 10
This is a turning point for Syria, should not be used by its neighbors to encroach on Syria's territory.
UN spokesperson
23:28 (IST) Dec 10
Syria's new PM says time for 'stability and calm': Al Jazeera interview
Mohammad al-Bashir, who was appointed the new Syrian PM, tried to bring a degree of order to the last major bastion of armed opposition against longtime leader Bashar al-Assad.
He had served as the head of the rebel administration's self-styled "Salvation Government" since January, and previously held the role of its "development minister".
He had served as the head of the rebel administration's self-styled "Salvation Government" since January, and previously held the role of its "development minister".
23:12 (IST) Dec 10
Israel assuming 'worst-case scenario' with Syria bombing
Israel's bombing of Syrian military assets and its entry into the UN-patrolled buffer zone on the Golan Heights show it fears the worst from the end of the Assad clan's rule, analysts told AFP.
"The Israeli government... is operating on a worst-case scenario with little to no nuance," said Yossi Mekelberg, a Middle East specialist at Chatham House in London.
Analysts noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had long appeared to regard ousted president Bashar al-Assad's continued rule as the least bad option for Syria, despite his alliance with Israel's arch foes Iran and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, for fear his overthrow would lead to chaos.
Now, Israeli leaders seem to fear that chaos has already arrived.
"The Israeli government... is operating on a worst-case scenario with little to no nuance," said Yossi Mekelberg, a Middle East specialist at Chatham House in London.
Analysts noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had long appeared to regard ousted president Bashar al-Assad's continued rule as the least bad option for Syria, despite his alliance with Israel's arch foes Iran and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, for fear his overthrow would lead to chaos.
Now, Israeli leaders seem to fear that chaos has already arrived.
22:32 (IST) Dec 10
Israeli warplanes pound Syria as troops reportedly advance deeper into the country
Israel carried out a wave of heavy airstrikes across Syria as its troops advanced deeper into the country, a Syrian opposition war monitor said Tuesday, and the Israeli defense minister announced that his forces had destroyed Syria’s navy.
Israel acknowledged pushing into a buffer zone inside Syria following the overthrow of President Bashar Assad. But it remained unclear if its soldiers had gone beyond that area, which was established more than 50 years ago. Israel denied it is advancing on the Syrian capital of Damascus.
Israeli officials have said they are striking military targets, including heavy weapons, suspected chemical weapons sites and air-defense systems, to prevent them from falling into the hands of extremists. Photographs circulating online showed destroyed missile launchers, helicopters and warplanes. Associated Press reporters in the capital heard heavy airstrikes overnight and into Tuesday morning.
Israel acknowledged pushing into a buffer zone inside Syria following the overthrow of President Bashar Assad. But it remained unclear if its soldiers had gone beyond that area, which was established more than 50 years ago. Israel denied it is advancing on the Syrian capital of Damascus.
Israeli officials have said they are striking military targets, including heavy weapons, suspected chemical weapons sites and air-defense systems, to prevent them from falling into the hands of extremists. Photographs circulating online showed destroyed missile launchers, helicopters and warplanes. Associated Press reporters in the capital heard heavy airstrikes overnight and into Tuesday morning.
20:57 (IST) Dec 10
Syria Civil War Live: Russia's military bases in Syria under threat
The rebel offensive that ousted Moscow ally Bashar al-Assad has left Russia's military bases in Syria under threat.
The Tartus naval base and Hmeimim air base are Russia's only military outposts outside the former Soviet Union and have been key to the Kremlin's activities in Africa and the Middle East.
Russian state media report that the Syrian opposition has "guaranteed" the security of the facilities, but it is not clear if Moscow will maintain control of them.
The Tartus naval base and Hmeimim air base are Russia's only military outposts outside the former Soviet Union and have been key to the Kremlin's activities in Africa and the Middle East.
Russian state media report that the Syrian opposition has "guaranteed" the security of the facilities, but it is not clear if Moscow will maintain control of them.
20:11 (IST) Dec 10
Egypt calls for adoption of 'comprehensive political process' in Syria
Egypt called on Tuesday for Syria to allow a full political process to take place in Syria after former president Bashar al-Assad was ousted by rebel forces, the foreign ministry said.
"Egypt reaffirms its keenness to communicate with brothers in Syria and exert all efforts to ensure the success of a comprehensive political process that achieves the ambition of the Syrian people," a foreign ministry statement read.
"Egypt reaffirms its keenness to communicate with brothers in Syria and exert all efforts to ensure the success of a comprehensive political process that achieves the ambition of the Syrian people," a foreign ministry statement read.
19:15 (IST) Dec 10
UN envoy warns against sending refugees back to Syria too soon
The United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, has urged European nations to refrain from hastily repatriating refugees to Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government. Speaking on Tuesday, Pedersen also called on foreign actors, including Israel, to avoid military intervention in the volatile country.
"Syria remains in a fluid state," Pedersen stated during a news conference at the UN's Geneva headquarters, highlighting the ongoing disorder three days after Assad's ouster.
Despite the political shift, conflict continues to rage in northeastern Syria, exacerbating instability. Meanwhile, Israel has conducted airstrikes on targets within Syria and expanded its buffer zone, further complicating the fragile situation.
"Syria remains in a fluid state," Pedersen stated during a news conference at the UN's Geneva headquarters, highlighting the ongoing disorder three days after Assad's ouster.
Despite the political shift, conflict continues to rage in northeastern Syria, exacerbating instability. Meanwhile, Israel has conducted airstrikes on targets within Syria and expanded its buffer zone, further complicating the fragile situation.
18:43 (IST) Dec 10
The Syrian rebels now in power in Damascus have appointed Mohammed al-Bashir as head of a transitional government that will be in place until March 1, state media said Tuesday.
"The general command has tasked us with running the transitional government until March 1," said a statement attributed to Bashir on state television's Telegram account, referring to him as "the new Syrian prime minister".
"The general command has tasked us with running the transitional government until March 1," said a statement attributed to Bashir on state television's Telegram account, referring to him as "the new Syrian prime minister".
17:38 (IST) Dec 10
Syria Civil War Live: Qatar says it is unacceptable for Israel to 'exploit' Syria situation
Qatar considers it unacceptable for Israel to "exploit" the current situation in Syria and violate its sovereignty, Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari said in a press conference on Tuesday.
Asked about any communication with Syria's leading rebel faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Al-Ansari said Qatar's doors are open to all concerned parties in Syria.
Asked about any communication with Syria's leading rebel faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Al-Ansari said Qatar's doors are open to all concerned parties in Syria.
17:38 (IST) Dec 10
Tehran says 4,000 Iranians returned from Syria since Assad's fall
Tehran said Tuesday it had brought home 4,000 Iranian citizens from Syria following the ouster of its ally Bashar al-Assad as rebels took over Damascus.
"Over the past three days, 4,000 Iranian citizens were returned to Iran," Fatemeh Mohajerani, the spokeswoman for Iran's government, said at a press conference in the capital.
She added that Iran would keep up its efforts "until the departure of the last Iranian" in Syria.
Around 10,000 Iranian citizens had been living in Syria in recent years, according to official figures.
"Over the past three days, 4,000 Iranian citizens were returned to Iran," Fatemeh Mohajerani, the spokeswoman for Iran's government, said at a press conference in the capital.
She added that Iran would keep up its efforts "until the departure of the last Iranian" in Syria.
Around 10,000 Iranian citizens had been living in Syria in recent years, according to official figures.
16:48 (IST) Dec 10
Syria: Jolani's masterplan that shocked Putin, Khamenei; Here's how HTS secretly trapped Assad
16:48 (IST) Dec 10
Syria Civil War Live: Jordanian man returns home after 38 years in Syria's prisons
A Jordanian man has returned to his homeland after enduring nearly four decades in Syrian jails, an official announced on Tuesday. His return marked the end of an agonizing chapter for his family, who had waited for answers since his disappearance in 1986.
The man, identified as Osama Bashir Hassan al-Bataynah, was discovered in Syria in a fragile state, unconscious and suffering from memory loss, according to Jordanian Foreign Ministry official Soufian al-Kodat.
Al-Bataynah was just 18 years old when his family reported him missing in 1986. According to al-Kodat, he had been imprisoned in Syria ever since. The circumstances of his detention remain unclear.
Following his discovery, al-Bataynah was transferred from Damascus to the Jaber border crossing with Jordan, where he was handed over to Jordanian border guards. Early Tuesday morning, he was reunited with his family, bringing a bittersweet resolution to a decades-long ordeal.
The man, identified as Osama Bashir Hassan al-Bataynah, was discovered in Syria in a fragile state, unconscious and suffering from memory loss, according to Jordanian Foreign Ministry official Soufian al-Kodat.
Al-Bataynah was just 18 years old when his family reported him missing in 1986. According to al-Kodat, he had been imprisoned in Syria ever since. The circumstances of his detention remain unclear.
Following his discovery, al-Bataynah was transferred from Damascus to the Jaber border crossing with Jordan, where he was handed over to Jordanian border guards. Early Tuesday morning, he was reunited with his family, bringing a bittersweet resolution to a decades-long ordeal.
16:09 (IST) Dec 10
Access to Syria 'crime scene' a 'game-changer': UN investigator
UN investigators who for years have been gathering evidence of horrific crimes committed in Syria hope Bashar al-Assad's downfall will finally mean they can access "the crime scene" and "massive evidence".
"There is a sea change," said Robert Petit, a Canadian prosecutor and legal scholar who heads the United Nations investigative body known as the International Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) on Syria.
"The evidence in Syria is finally becoming available," he told AFP in an interview, a day after Assad fled Syria as Islamist-led rebels swept into the capital, bringing to a spectacular end five decades of brutal rule by his clan over a country ravaged by one of the deadliest wars of the century.
"It's already quite clear that there's massive evidence," he said, pointing to the videos emerging from Syria's emptying prisons showing "rooms full of reams and reams of paper".
"There is a sea change," said Robert Petit, a Canadian prosecutor and legal scholar who heads the United Nations investigative body known as the International Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) on Syria.
"The evidence in Syria is finally becoming available," he told AFP in an interview, a day after Assad fled Syria as Islamist-led rebels swept into the capital, bringing to a spectacular end five decades of brutal rule by his clan over a country ravaged by one of the deadliest wars of the century.
"It's already quite clear that there's massive evidence," he said, pointing to the videos emerging from Syria's emptying prisons showing "rooms full of reams and reams of paper".
15:49 (IST) Dec 10
Syria Civil War Live: War monitor says Israel conducted 300 strikes on Syria since Assad's fall
A war monitor said on Tuesday that Israel had conducted 300 strikes on Syria since the fall of president Bashar al-Assad, adding that the raids had "destroyed the most important military sites" in the country.
Assad fled Syria as an Islamist-led rebel alliance swept into the capital Damascus, bringing to an end on Sunday to five decades of brutal rule by his clan.
Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the Islamist leader who headed the offensive that forced Assad out, has begun talks on a transfer of power and vowed to pursue former senior government officials responsible for torture and war crimes.
Assad fled Syria as an Islamist-led rebel alliance swept into the capital Damascus, bringing to an end on Sunday to five decades of brutal rule by his clan.
Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the Islamist leader who headed the offensive that forced Assad out, has begun talks on a transfer of power and vowed to pursue former senior government officials responsible for torture and war crimes.
15:25 (IST) Dec 10
Syria Civil War Live updates: Israeli warplanes pound Syria as troops reportedly advance deeper into the country
Israel launched a series of heavy airstrikes across Syria as reports surfaced of its troops moving deeper into the country, coming within 25 kilometers (15 miles) of Damascus, according to a Syrian opposition war monitor on Tuesday. However, Israel firmly denied advancing toward the Syrian capital.
Associated Press reporters in Damascus documented heavy overnight and early-morning airstrikes targeting the city and its suburbs. Images circulating online depicted extensive damage, including destroyed missile launchers, helicopters, and warplanes.
There was no immediate response from the insurgent groups dominating Damascus, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a leading force among opposition factions.
Israel had earlier taken control of a 400-square-kilometer (155-square-mile) buffer zone inside Syria, an area initially established after the 1973 Mideast war. Israeli officials justified the move as a protective measure to prevent attacks in the wake of President Bashar Assad’s overthrow.
Associated Press reporters in Damascus documented heavy overnight and early-morning airstrikes targeting the city and its suburbs. Images circulating online depicted extensive damage, including destroyed missile launchers, helicopters, and warplanes.
There was no immediate response from the insurgent groups dominating Damascus, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a leading force among opposition factions.
Israel had earlier taken control of a 400-square-kilometer (155-square-mile) buffer zone inside Syria, an area initially established after the 1973 Mideast war. Israeli officials justified the move as a protective measure to prevent attacks in the wake of President Bashar Assad’s overthrow.
15:05 (IST) Dec 10
Syria Civil War Live updates: Erdogan discusses Syria with Nato chief
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan spoke with Nato secretary general Mark Rutte on Tuesday to discuss the latest developments in Syria, according to a statement from Erdogan's office. The President emphasized that Turkey will continue to do everything in its power to help establish a unified, terror-free Syria, the statement said on X.
15:04 (IST) Dec 10
Syria civil war live updates: Syria defence research centre destroyed after strikes
Strikes that a Syrian war monitor said were carried out by Israel in Damascus's Barzeh area have completely destroyed a defence ministry research centre, AFP reported on Tuesday.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights had reported Monday that "Israeli warplanes launched over 100 strikes... including on the Barzeh scientific research centre". Western countries including the United States struck the facility in 2018, saying it was related to Syria's "chemical weapons infrastructure".
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights had reported Monday that "Israeli warplanes launched over 100 strikes... including on the Barzeh scientific research centre". Western countries including the United States struck the facility in 2018, saying it was related to Syria's "chemical weapons infrastructure".
14:21 (IST) Dec 10
Syria civil war live updates: How was country's economy ravaged by the civil war?
In 2011, Syria's economy was valued at $67.5 billion (€63.9 billion), ranking 68th globally in GDP, comparable to countries like Paraguay and Slovenia. However, following the outbreak of large-scale protests against President Bashar al-Assad's regime, which escalated into a full-scale civil war, the economy suffered drastically.
By last year, Syria had fallen to 129th place in global GDP rankings, with its economy shrinking by 85% to just $9 billion, according to World Bank estimates, putting it on par with nations such as Chad and the Palestinian Territories. Nearly 14 years of conflict, international sanctions, and the displacement of 4.82 million people—over a fifth of Syria’s population—have severely impacted a country that was already one of the poorest in the Middle East.
By last year, Syria had fallen to 129th place in global GDP rankings, with its economy shrinking by 85% to just $9 billion, according to World Bank estimates, putting it on par with nations such as Chad and the Palestinian Territories. Nearly 14 years of conflict, international sanctions, and the displacement of 4.82 million people—over a fifth of Syria’s population—have severely impacted a country that was already one of the poorest in the Middle East.
14:00 (IST) Dec 10
Syria civil war live updates: Scholz, Macron prepared to work with rebels after Assad ouster
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron have expressed their willingness to cooperate with the Syrian rebel groups that ousted President Bashar al-Assad, under certain conditions, according to a German government statement following a phone call between the two leaders. The leaders of the EU's two largest powers welcomed Assad's departure, acknowledging the immense suffering he caused to the Syrian people and the extensive damage inflicted on the country. Assad fled Damascus for Moscow on Sunday, ending over 50 years of brutal rule by his family.
The statement outlined that Scholz and Macron are ready to engage with Syria's new rulers, provided that fundamental human rights and the protection of ethnic and religious minorities are upheld. As governments globally scramble to form new relationships with Syria's leading rebel faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)—a group previously allied with Al Qaeda and designated a terrorist organization by the US, EU, Turkey, and the UN—Scholz and Macron agreed to strengthen EU involvement in Syria. This includes support for an inclusive political process, with further discussions to be held in close coordination with Middle Eastern partners.
The statement outlined that Scholz and Macron are ready to engage with Syria's new rulers, provided that fundamental human rights and the protection of ethnic and religious minorities are upheld. As governments globally scramble to form new relationships with Syria's leading rebel faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)—a group previously allied with Al Qaeda and designated a terrorist organization by the US, EU, Turkey, and the UN—Scholz and Macron agreed to strengthen EU involvement in Syria. This includes support for an inclusive political process, with further discussions to be held in close coordination with Middle Eastern partners.
13:57 (IST) Dec 10
Syria civil war live updates: Israeli troops near Damascus after Israeli airstrikes hit Syrian bases
Two regional security sources and one Syrian security source reported that an Israeli military incursion into southern Syria had advanced approximately 25 km (16 miles) southwest of Damascus. The Syrian security source specified that Israeli troops had reached Qatana, located 10 km inside Syrian territory, east of the demilitarized zone separating the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from Syria. The Israeli military declined to comment on the reports.
13:03 (IST) Dec 10
Syria civil war live updates: Brazil evacuates diplomats
Brazil withdrew its ambassador and diplomats from Syria, relocating them to neighboring Lebanon due to the instability following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, a government official confirmed. Ambassador Andre Luiz Azevedo dos Santos and a small group of diplomats are now based in Beirut, where they will remain until the security situation in Syria's capital improves.
The decision was made after several state buildings and foreign embassies in Damascus were stormed and vandalized, although the Brazilian embassy itself was not targeted. This move came just after an armed group entered the Italian ambassador's residence in Damascus on Sunday and stole three vehicles, according to the Italian foreign ministry.
The decision was made after several state buildings and foreign embassies in Damascus were stormed and vandalized, although the Brazilian embassy itself was not targeted. This move came just after an armed group entered the Italian ambassador's residence in Damascus on Sunday and stole three vehicles, according to the Italian foreign ministry.
11:35 (IST) Dec 10
Syria civil war live updates: Families search Sednaya prison for missing relatives
As families searched desperately through the grim cells of Syria's notorious Sednaya prison on Monday, hoping to find signs of their long-detained relatives after its gates were opened by rebels, the hope of locating missing loved ones began to fade.
Thousands of prisoners, released following President Bashar al-Assad’s downfall on Sunday, emerged from the brutal detention system, some reunited with relatives who had feared they were executed years ago. However, many families continued to navigate the dark corridors and hidden cells of the prison complex, still searching for loved ones detained for protesting, defying authorities, or simply voicing dissent.
Ahmed Najjar, who traveled from Aleppo to Damascus, was among those hoping to find his brother's two children, who had been seized by Assad's security forces in 2012.
Thousands of prisoners, released following President Bashar al-Assad’s downfall on Sunday, emerged from the brutal detention system, some reunited with relatives who had feared they were executed years ago. However, many families continued to navigate the dark corridors and hidden cells of the prison complex, still searching for loved ones detained for protesting, defying authorities, or simply voicing dissent.
Ahmed Najjar, who traveled from Aleppo to Damascus, was among those hoping to find his brother's two children, who had been seized by Assad's security forces in 2012.
10:23 (IST) Dec 10
Syria civil war live updates: Israel has 'destroyed most important military sites in Syria', says war monitor
A war monitor reported on Tuesday that Israel has "destroyed the most important military sites in Syria" through a series of airstrikes following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad's government. Israel, which shares a border with Syria, deployed troops into a buffer zone on the eastern side of the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights after Assad's departure. Foreign minister Gideon Saar called this a "limited and temporary step" taken for "security reasons."
Over the past 48 hours, Israel has conducted "about 250 airstrikes on Syrian territory" with the goal of dismantling the military capabilities of the former regime, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
"Israel destroyed the most important military sites in Syria, including Syrian airports and their warehouses, aircraft squadrons, radars, military signal stations, and many weapons and ammunition depots in various locations in most Syrian governorates," the Britain-based Observatory said in a statement Tuesday.
Over the past 48 hours, Israel has conducted "about 250 airstrikes on Syrian territory" with the goal of dismantling the military capabilities of the former regime, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
"Israel destroyed the most important military sites in Syria, including Syrian airports and their warehouses, aircraft squadrons, radars, military signal stations, and many weapons and ammunition depots in various locations in most Syrian governorates," the Britain-based Observatory said in a statement Tuesday.
08:38 (IST) Dec 10
Syria rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani discusses 'transfer of power'
Syria’s Islamist rebel leader, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, began discussions on Monday about transferring power, a day after his opposition alliance ousted President Bashar al-Assad, ending decades of brutal rule by his family. Assad fled Syria as the Islamist-led rebels advanced into the capital, marking a dramatic conclusion to over five decades of control by the Assad regime.
Assad’s reign was defined by his violent crackdown on the 2011 democracy movement, which ignited a devastating war that killed 500,000 people and forced millions to flee their homes, many seeking refuge abroad.
In the aftermath of Assad's departure, al-Jolani, now using his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, met with outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed al-Jalali to discuss the power transition. According to a statement released via the rebels' Telegram channels, the meeting aimed to "coordinate a transfer of power that guarantees the provision of services" to the Syrian people.
The Assad family's rule, inherited from Hafez al-Assad, was built on a ruthless system of prisons and detention centers designed to suppress dissent and eliminate anyone challenging the power of the ruling Baath party.
Assad’s reign was defined by his violent crackdown on the 2011 democracy movement, which ignited a devastating war that killed 500,000 people and forced millions to flee their homes, many seeking refuge abroad.
In the aftermath of Assad's departure, al-Jolani, now using his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, met with outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed al-Jalali to discuss the power transition. According to a statement released via the rebels' Telegram channels, the meeting aimed to "coordinate a transfer of power that guarantees the provision of services" to the Syrian people.
The Assad family's rule, inherited from Hafez al-Assad, was built on a ruthless system of prisons and detention centers designed to suppress dissent and eliminate anyone challenging the power of the ruling Baath party.
08:33 (IST) Dec 10
Tulsi Gabbard meets Senators; supports him on Syria
Former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, nominated for the influential position of Director of National Intelligence, met with key US Senators on Capitol Hill on Monday to discuss her nomination. During the meeting, Gabbard expressed her strong support for President-elect Donald Trump's stance on Syria, stating, "I stand in full support and wholeheartedly agree with the statements that President Trump has made over these last few days regarding the developments in Syria."
Senator Joni Ernst praised Gabbard's leadership, saying, "Wonderful catching up with Tulsi Gabbard, a strong and proven leader!"
Senator Joni Ernst praised Gabbard's leadership, saying, "Wonderful catching up with Tulsi Gabbard, a strong and proven leader!"
05:38 (IST) Dec 10
US says terror designation doesn't bar talks with Syrian rebel group
The US State Department announced it is not actively reviewing the "foreign terrorist organization" designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), despite the group's role in overthrowing Bashar Assad's government in Syria. However, it noted such designations are continually reassessed based on actions. Spokesman Matthew Miller emphasized that the label does not prevent US officials from communicating with the group when it aligns with US interests.
A senior US official acknowledged HTS's importance in Syria's evolving dynamics, comparing potential engagement to the Taliban negotiations during the Trump administration, although the Taliban was under a less stringent designation. President Joe Biden also discussed Syria with Jordan’s King Abdullah II, focusing on stability, counter-ISIS efforts, and refugee concerns.
Meanwhile, the US secured its long-closed Damascus embassy compound with local groups after the Czech Embassy withdrew due to escalating instability. High-ranking US diplomats are consulting regional partners in Jordan and Qatar on Middle Eastern tensions.
A senior US official acknowledged HTS's importance in Syria's evolving dynamics, comparing potential engagement to the Taliban negotiations during the Trump administration, although the Taliban was under a less stringent designation. President Joe Biden also discussed Syria with Jordan’s King Abdullah II, focusing on stability, counter-ISIS efforts, and refugee concerns.
Meanwhile, the US secured its long-closed Damascus embassy compound with local groups after the Czech Embassy withdrew due to escalating instability. High-ranking US diplomats are consulting regional partners in Jordan and Qatar on Middle Eastern tensions.
04:15 (IST) Dec 10
US ramps up efforts to locate missing journalist Austin Tice in Syria
Twelve years after American journalist Austin Tice's abduction in Syria, the US government is intensifying efforts to secure his release. Following the recent political upheaval, special envoy Roger Carstens traveled to Beirut seeking information. While his captors and precise location remain unknown, the Biden administration believes Tice is alive and are pursuing all leads to bring him home.
Read full story03:27 (IST) Dec 10
Syria News Live Updates: Hezbollah condemns Israeli strikes on Syria, says stands by its people
Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group, issued its initial statement on Monday following the ousting of their ally, former President Bashar al-Assad, expressing strong disapproval of Israel's heightened military actions against Syria.
The organisation criticised Israel for expanding its presence in the Golan Heights, where Israeli forces entered the buffer zone after Assad's fall, and for conducting operations that diminished Syria's defence capabilities. The statement emphasised, "While we affirm our support for Syria and its people, we stress the necessity to preserve Syria's unity."
The organisation criticised Israel for expanding its presence in the Golan Heights, where Israeli forces entered the buffer zone after Assad's fall, and for conducting operations that diminished Syria's defence capabilities. The statement emphasised, "While we affirm our support for Syria and its people, we stress the necessity to preserve Syria's unity."
02:39 (IST) Dec 10
Syria News Live Updates: UK indicates lifting ban on HTS if it delivers on its promises
The UK government is considering lifting the ban on Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist militant group that recently overthrew the Assad regime in Syria. This potential shift hinges on HTS upholding its promises to protect minority rights and ensure citizen safety. While HTS has historical ties to al-Qaeda, it claims to have severed those connections.
Read full story02:19 (IST) Dec 10
In first official statement after Assad's fall, India calls for peaceful & inclusive Syrian-led political process
India is monitoring the situation in Syria in the light of the ongoing developments, govt said on Monday, underlining the need for all parties to work towards preserving unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the country.In its first official statement on Syria, where rebel fighters have taken control after ousting the Bashar al-Assad regime, govt "advocate" a peaceful and inclusive Syrian-led political process respecting the interests and aspirations of all sections of Syrian society."Our Embassy in Damascus is in contact with the Indian community, for their safety and security,'' govt said.
Read full story02:00 (IST) Dec 10
Syria Civil War Live Updates: Israel hits Syrian air bases, destroying dozens of helicopters and planes, Syrian security sources say
Israeli aircraft conducted extensive strikes on three major Syrian military air installations, marking the most significant aerial assault on such facilities since President Bashar al Assad's fall from power, according to two Syrian security officials quoted by Reuters.
The targeted facilities included Qamishli air base in northeastern Syria, Shinshar base near Homs, and Aqrba airport located southwest of Damascus. These installations housed numerous helicopters and aircraft.
Additionally, Israeli forces carried out attacks on a research facility near Damascus and targeted an electronic warfare centre in the vicinity of Sayeda Zainab area of the capital.
The targeted facilities included Qamishli air base in northeastern Syria, Shinshar base near Homs, and Aqrba airport located southwest of Damascus. These installations housed numerous helicopters and aircraft.
Additionally, Israeli forces carried out attacks on a research facility near Damascus and targeted an electronic warfare centre in the vicinity of Sayeda Zainab area of the capital.
01:59 (IST) Dec 10
Syria Civil War Live Updates: Israel incursion into Syria must be 'temporary',' says US
The United States declared on Monday that Israel's military presence in Syria extending past the Golan Heights, following the removal of Bashar al-Assad, should remain "temporary," after the UN indicated that Israel had breached a 1974 agreement.
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated, "This is a temporary action that they have taken in response to actions by the Syrian military to withdraw from that area. Now, what we want to see, ultimately, is that agreement fully upheld, and we'll watch to see that Israel does that."
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated, "This is a temporary action that they have taken in response to actions by the Syrian military to withdraw from that area. Now, what we want to see, ultimately, is that agreement fully upheld, and we'll watch to see that Israel does that."
3 More Updates
Israeli airstrikes reportedly hit three Syrian military bases and other facilities, destroying helicopters and planes in one of the largest assaults since Bashar al-Assad's fall, Syrian sources quoted by Reuters said.
Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu reaffirmed the Golan Heights as permanently part of Israel. However, the US called Israel's actions beyond the Golan Heights "temporary" and urged adherence to the 1974 agreement, while the UN criticized Israel's presence in the buffer zone.
Also, Ousted Syrian president Assad's Baath party pledged to support a transitional phase post-Assad, emphasizing national unity.
Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu reaffirmed the Golan Heights as permanently part of Israel. However, the US called Israel's actions beyond the Golan Heights "temporary" and urged adherence to the 1974 agreement, while the UN criticized Israel's presence in the buffer zone.
Also, Ousted Syrian president Assad's Baath party pledged to support a transitional phase post-Assad, emphasizing national unity.
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