Alicia Alamillos is a journalist and fixer based in Madrid, Spain. Former Middle East correspondent for ABC newspaper, based in Cairo, Egypt. Former Subsaharan Africa correspondent and editor for EFE News Agency based in Nairobi, Kenya. With experience working for print, online and radio. Breaking ...

The Communicating Vessels of the Iron Butterfly: Aleppo Falls into Rebel Hands

30 Nov 2024  |  www.elconfidencial.com  |  Spanish  |  Middle East Conflict

In a surprising turn of events, Syrian rebels have captured Aleppo, marking a significant shift in the Syrian Civil War. The offensive, led by Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, has seen rapid advances with little resistance from Bashar Al-Asad's forces, who are struggling without Russian support. The article highlights the interconnectedness of global conflicts, with Russia's focus on Ukraine and Hezbollah's stretched resources impacting the situation in Syria. The fall of Aleppo could signal a major change in the region, with potential implications for refugees and international relations.

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Syrian Army Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham Hezbollah Russian Military

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Andrew Byrne is a Europe correspondent based in Brussels, Belgium.

Mystery trip for one-armed ‘godfather of Belgian jihadism’ ends in French jail

05 Oct 2023  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Law Enforcement

Ayachi, known as the 'godfather of Belgian jihadism,' was arrested in France under mysterious circumstances, possibly involving unofficial cooperation between Turkish and French officials. Despite his radical influence and connections to terrorism, he has never been prosecuted for a terrorist crime. His arrest is seen as significant by security sources. Ayachi's history includes radicalizing many Islamic militants and opposing ISIS, which led to the loss of his arm. His family has been involved in various terrorist activities, and his arrest raises questions about international cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.

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Free Syrian Army Isis al-Qaeda Belgian Islamic Centre

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I’m a journalist based in Beirut covering Lebanon, Syria and Jordan. Available for lives, both video and audio. I specialise in covering humanitarian and refugee issues.

Celebrating the unknown: Syrian Alawites fear for future under rebel rule

15 Dec 2024  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  Rebel Rule

The article explores the fears and uncertainties faced by the Syrian Alawite community following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime and the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebels. Despite the end of Assad's oppressive rule, Alawites remain apprehensive about potential retaliation and the imposition of religious dogma by the new rulers. The community, historically marginalized and used as a labor pool for the Syrian army, is now caught between relief at the regime's downfall and fear of the unknown future under HTS. While HTS has made assurances about respecting minority rights, skepticism remains, with individuals like Olga and Ali expressing concerns about personal freedoms and safety.

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Syrian Army Hayat Tahrir al-Sham

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Colombian journalist, editor and researcher based in Spain.

Rebels, militias, and Kurds... Who is who in Syria after the fall of Assad?

09 Dec 2024  |  elordenmundial.com  |  Spanish  |  Middle East Politics

The Assad regime in Syria has fallen after 54 years, following a rapid offensive led by Hayat Tahrir al Sham (HTS). Despite the end of the dictatorship, the conflict may continue with potential for a new civil war. HTS, originally linked to Al Qaeda, has emerged as a key political player, while other groups like the Front for National Liberation and the Syrian National Army, supported by Turkey, played significant roles in the offensive. The Syrian Democratic Forces, backed by the US, face challenges from the Syrian National Army. Internationally, Russia and Iran, Assad's main supporters, have been weakened, with Russia offering asylum to Assad. Iran's strategic interests in the region are further compromised due to conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, affecting its ally Hezbollah.

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Syrian Democratic Forces Syrian National Army Hayat Tahrir al Sham Front for National Liberation Russia Iran Hezbollah

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Umar Farooq is a journalist based in Istanbul, Turkey.  He reports regularly for the Los Angeles Times from the region.  In the past year, his work has also appeared in Foreign Affairs, National Geographic, The Guardian, Boston Review, and The Nation.  

He received a Pulitzer Center Crisis ...

What Are Uyghurs Doing in Syria?

04 Apr 2025  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  International Relations

Uyghur fighters have become a significant presence in Syria, particularly in the rebel-held areas of Idlib and Jisr al-Shughur, following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. The Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), composed largely of Uyghur fighters, has been integrated into the Syrian military structure, playing a crucial role in the conflict. The presence of Uyghur fighters poses challenges for Syria's new government in its efforts to lift international sanctions, as groups like TIP are viewed with suspicion by global powers, particularly China. The article explores the complex dynamics of Uyghur involvement in Syria, their motivations, and the broader geopolitical implications, including China's stance on Uyghur groups and the potential parallels with the Taliban's experience in Afghanistan.

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Syrian Army Turkistan Islamic Party Hayat Tahrir al-Sham

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Eduard Freisler is a Czech freelance journalist based in Caracas, Venezuela. Graduated in with a Bachelors degree in General Media from the Hunter College, New York City. Experienced at identifying and developing both mainstream and unusual viewpoints on stories involving peoples struggles for ...

Shocking Occupation of Syrian Aleppo. Russian Planes Had to Intervene in the Fight

15 Oct 2023  |  www.seznamzpravy.cz  |  Czech  |  Middle East Conflict

Syrian rebels, led by the Islamist group Haját Tahrír aš-Šám, have taken control of Aleppo, marking a significant setback for Bashar al-Assad's regime. The Syrian army confirmed the loss, and Russian planes have intervened for the first time since 2016. The offensive, which began on Wednesday, has resulted in approximately 300 casualties, including Syrian and Russian soldiers. The rebels have also captured Maarat an-Numán in Idlib province, gaining control of the area near the Turkish border. The Syrian regime, supported by Russia and Iran, faces challenges as both allies are preoccupied with conflicts elsewhere. The situation raises questions about Assad's stability and the future of the region.

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Syrian Army Haját Tahrír aš-Šám Russian Air Force Iranian Revolutionary Guard International Crisis Group

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Journalist in Kathmandu, often with BBC Travel, der Spiegel, Stern, the Scotsman and other German and British media. 
Former senior foreign correspondent in Brussels covering EU affairs. Worked in broadcast, but still prefer print and photography. 
I usually write in English and German, but can ...

The Fall of Aleppo Poses a Significant Threat to Syria’s Leader

02 Dec 2024  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  International Relations

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad faces a significant threat as rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), capture Aleppo and other areas in a surprise offensive. The conflict has resulted in substantial casualties and displacement, with HTS gaining control over regions previously held by Assad's forces. The situation is complicated by the involvement of international actors, including Russia, Iran, Turkey, and the U.S., each with their own interests and alliances. The humanitarian situation in Aleppo is dire, with shortages of essentials and ongoing airstrikes exacerbating the crisis. Diplomatic efforts continue, but tensions remain high as various factions vie for control and influence in the region.

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Syrian National Army Syrian Observatory for Human Rights HTS Violet Russian Air Force Iranian-backed militias YPG PKK Turkish Armed Forces U.S. Military

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Jennifer Gnana is a multi-lingual journalist with experience in print and broadcast, currently based in Bahrain. She has extensive experience reporting on economic development in the Middle East, with a focus on GCC and Iran. Her specialty is feature writing and risk analysis. She is fluent in ...

With Assad gone, Turkey urges Syrian opposition to unite, warns against PKK

01 Dec 2024  |  Al-Monitor: Independent, trusted coverage of the Middle East  |  English  |  Syrian Opposition

Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called for unity among Syrian opposition groups, emphasizing a peaceful transition and the inclusion of all Syrian communities. Turkey remains vigilant against the influence of Kurdish groups, which it views as a security threat, and is coordinating with US partners to address these concerns. Turkish-backed forces have made significant territorial gains in Syria, capturing strategic locations from the Syrian Democratic Forces. Efforts to repatriate Syrian refugees have also been initiated, as Turkey hosts over 3 million displaced individuals.

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Syrian Democratic Forces Syrian National Army Turkish Foreign Ministry Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Kurdistan Workers Party US-led international coalition

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Currently covering the fight against ISIS in Mosul as of October 19th, available for phoners and Skype interview. I'm a former producer and correspondent for Vice News, and have covered Iraq since 2012, reporting on the fight against ISIS in Syria and Iraq since they first took Mosul in the summer ...

Saving Lives With Tech Amid Syria’s Endless Civil War

01 Oct 2023  |  www.wired.com  |  English  |  Humanitarian Aid

The article highlights the efforts of Hala Systems, a tech startup co-founded by John Jaeger, Dave Levin, and Murad, to save lives in Syria's Idlib Province through an early-warning system called Sentry. This system alerts civilians of impending air strikes, giving them crucial time to seek shelter. The narrative follows the personal stories of individuals like Abu al-Nour, who have benefited from these warnings, and details the technical and logistical challenges faced by the team. The article underscores the humanitarian impact of Sentry, its potential applications in other conflict zones, and the ethical considerations surrounding its use.

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Free Idlib Army Syrian Civil Defense Jaysh al-Izza State Department UN Global Compact

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I'm a multimedia reporter and writer. I have covered social change, conflict and rights in more than ten countries across the Middle East and Europe while based out of London, Rome and the West Bank.

I'm experienced across all aspects of digital journalism - from filing breaking news to ...

Where Turkey stands as the Assad regime is toppled

09 Dec 2024  |  The New Arab  |  English  |  Middle East Politics

The article discusses the recent toppling of Bashar Al-Assad's regime in Syria and the implications for Turkey and the broader Middle East. Syrian opposition forces, including Turkey-backed militias, have made significant territorial gains, capturing key cities and the capital, Damascus. This shift in power dynamics weakens the influence of Assad's allies, Russia and Iran, while potentially strengthening Turkey's position in the region. The article highlights Turkey's strategic interests, including managing refugee flows and countering Kurdish groups linked to the PKK. Analysts suggest that Turkey may benefit from a friendly government in Damascus, but caution that regional stability remains uncertain, with potential threats from ISIS and ongoing military operations against the SDF.

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Syrian Democratic Forces Syrian National Army Hayat Tahrir al-Sham International Crisis Group People’s Protection Units Kurdistan Workers’ Party Astana process

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Ali Haj Suleiman is a journalist based in Idlib, Syria.

In pictures: The unsung heroes of Syria's revolution

01 Oct 2023  |  Middle East Eye  |  English  |  Art Exhibition

A unique exhibition in Idlib, Syria, showcases artworks depicting revolutionaries who played significant roles in the Syrian revolution. The exhibition, curated by Rami Abd al-Haq, features portraits of individuals like Basil Shehadeh, Abdul Basit al-Sarout, Suad al-Kiyari, and others who lost their lives in the conflict. The event aims to honor these unsung heroes and keep the spirit of the revolution alive. Attendees praised the exhibition for providing a personal connection to the revolutionaries' stories. The article highlights the ongoing struggle and the hope for peace and regime change in Syria.

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Syrian Revolutionaries Front Free Army Radio Fresh

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Freelance journalist covering war and humanitarian situations in Syria. Experienced collaborator with media agencies including Al Jazeera, The Guardian, Middle East Eye, and other media outlets.

Desperate journeys: Syrian refugees fleeing Israel’s assault on Lebanon

15 Oct 2024  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Israel-Lebanon Conflict

The article discusses the plight of Syrian refugees fleeing the Israeli assault on Lebanon, highlighting the dangerous journey back to Syria amidst ongoing conflict. Many refugees, like Musa Baghdadi, face the dilemma of choosing between the dangers in Lebanon and the risks of returning to a war-torn Syria. The article criticizes the Syrian government's amnesty promises as ineffective, with many refugees resorting to smugglers to avoid regime checkpoints. The narrative underscores the humanitarian crisis, with organizations like the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and the International Organization for Migration providing data on casualties and displacement. The article reflects on the broader geopolitical tensions involving Israel, Lebanon, and Syria, and the impact on civilians caught in the crossfire.

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Syrian National Army Syrian Democratic Forces Syrian National Coalition Syrian Observatory for Human Rights International Organization for Migration White Helmets

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Hediye Levent | Freelance Journalist With over two decades of experience in journalism, I have been extensively covering the Middle East since 2003. From 2008 to 2021, I was based in Syria, Lebanon and Iraq, providing in-depth coverage of the region's complex developments. Currently, I reside in ...

Waiting for normalization: Common threat perceptions may advance Turkey-Syria talks

01 Jul 2023  |  turkeyrecap.substack.com  |  English  |  Conflict Resolution

Turkey and Syria, once close allies, have seen their relationship deteriorate since the 2011 Arab uprisings. Turkish President Erdoğan has expressed openness to talks with Syrian President Assad, albeit with conditions. Despite defense ministry-level meetings, significant progress in normalization has not been achieved, largely due to conflicting objectives and expectations. Both countries view Kurdish-led groups in northern Syria as threats, which could potentially lead to cooperation. The US's support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and pressure from Russia are influencing factors in the reconciliation efforts. Disagreements persist, particularly regarding Turkey's military presence in Syria and support for the Syrian National Army. The normalization process is seen as gradual, with the need for realistic expectations and a focus on common security threats.

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Syrian Democratic Forces Syrian National Army Turkish Armed Forces People’s Protection Units Kurdistan Workers’ Party United States Russian Government Iranian Government

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Multimedia journalist based in Erbil covering Iraq and Syria.

What we know about latest airstrikes in northeast Syria

05 Mar 2024  |  Al-Monitor: Independent, trusted coverage of the Middle East  |  English  |  Middle East Conflict

A strike in northeast Syria killed several Iran-backed militia fighters, with the perpetrator remaining unknown. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that warplanes bombed a villa used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Deir ez-Zor, resulting in 13 deaths. Additional strikes were reported in al-Bukamal and al-Mayadin. The Syrian government and the observatory often attribute such strikes to the Israeli military, which typically does not comment on its operations. The region is a hotspot in the ongoing Syrian civil war, with various factions, including US-backed forces and Iranian proxies, involved in recent conflicts.

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Syrian Army Syrian Democratic Forces Syrian Observatory for Human Rights Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Israeli Military

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Rachel Marsden is a media professional with over two decades of expertise in international politics. Her extensive career includes multilingual hosting, presenting, producing, and debating across TV, radio, and digital platforms. She has been an internationally syndicated columnist since 2011, ...

Syrian Army Shoots Terrorists' Drones Down, Shells their Base

30 Sept 2023  |  www.islamtimes.org  |  English  |  Terrorism

The Syrian Army destroyed terrorists' drones targeting civilian sites and army positions in the suburbs of Idlib, Hama, and Latakia, and shelled the terrorists' base, resulting in casualties. This action is in the context of the 2017 Astana Peace Talks agreement, which led to the Syrian army regaining control of three safe zones in 2018. However, Idlib and parts of Latakia, Hama, and Aleppo remain under terrorist control, despite a 2018 agreement between Russia and Turkey to disarm the terrorists without bloodshed.

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Syrian Army Astana Peace Talks

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Independent journalist covering Russia's war against Ukraine, based in Kyiv

In Syria, a Bittersweet Return to a Damascus Suburb

04 Feb 2025  |  WhoWhatWhy  |  English  |  Rebuilding Efforts

In Eastern Ghouta, a suburb of Damascus, the recent overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has allowed refugees to return home for the first time in years. The return is bittersweet, as many find their homes destroyed and loved ones lost. The area, once a battleground in the Syrian civil war, is now under the control of HTS, which faces ongoing threats from Assad loyalists and Daesh. Returning residents, like Abu Rami and Abdul Rahman, are tasked with securing their neighborhoods while grappling with the challenges of rebuilding their lives amid the ruins. Despite the hardships, there is a sense of hope and determination to live in peace and rebuild their community.

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Free Syrian Army Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham Assad Regime Faylaq al-Rahman Al-Nusra Front Daesh

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An award-winning multimedia correspondent who has reported from North America, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and his native Britain for more than a decade. Strong editorial judgment and leadership skills with the ability to grasp and distill complex issues with ease and lead digital and broadcast ...

Post-Raqqa IS moves from 'caliphate' to guerrilla war

18 Oct 2023  |  Middle East Eye  |  English  |  Middle East Conflict

US-backed Syrian forces are clearing Raqqa of landmines and rubble after its liberation from the Islamic State (IS), marking a significant defeat for the militant group. Despite the loss of their 'caliphate,' IS is expected to transition to guerrilla warfare, exploiting regional chaos and Sunni alienation. The fall of Raqqa has led to humanitarian concerns, with thousands of civilians displaced. The focus now shifts to IS strongholds along the Euphrates River, while the group's leadership and remaining militants may regroup in other conflict zones. Experts warn that IS's ideology will persist, posing ongoing security threats globally.

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Syrian Government US Army US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces Islamic State State Department Russian Government Iranian Government Kurdish Forces Iraqi Forces Taliban

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Mouneb Taim, a distinguished freelance photojournalist born in 2001, has garnered international acclaim for his comprehensive coverage of social issues. With a career spanning since 2014, he documented life under siege in Syria until early 2022, accumulating numerous awards.
Currently based in ...

A war of brothers

15 Oct 2023  |  nowlebanon.com  |  English  |  Syrian Civil War

Heavy fighting erupted in northern Syria between rival armed groups, primarily involving Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Syrian National Army (SNA). The conflict was triggered by the assassination of political activist Muhammad Abu Ghanoum and his wife. HTS intervened, advancing into Afrin and Azaz, but faced resistance from the Third Corps. A Turkish-imposed ceasefire failed, leading to further clashes until the Turkish military intervened. The infighting appears to serve Turkey's interests, consolidating control under HTS. Protests erupted against HTS's presence, and the situation remains fluid with ongoing tensions and uncertainty in northern Syria.

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Syrian Salvation Government Syrian Government Free Syrian Army Syrian National Army Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham Turkish Government Third Corps Levant Front Jaysh al-Islam Hamza Division Suleiman Shah Brigade Ahrar al-Sham Bayada Martyrs Brigade Russian Government

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Cassandra Vinograd is a freelance journalist and producer specializing in conflict, human rights and migration. She previously worked for NBC News, The Associated Press and The Wall Street Journal. Her reporting has taken her throughout Africa, Europe and the Middle East. 

She is HEFAT certified....

Israel Says It Destroyed Syria’s Navy, Part of Wave of Post

10 Dec 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Middle East Conflict

The article reports on the recent military developments in Syria, highlighting Israel's extensive airstrikes that have significantly weakened Syria's military capabilities, including the destruction of its navy. The conflict involves multiple actors, including Turkish-backed forces, the Syrian Democratic Forces, and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, amid the backdrop of the Syrian civil war and the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. The United Nations and various human rights organizations express concerns over the humanitarian impact and the potential for further violence. The geopolitical landscape is shifting, with Israel, Turkey, and the United States playing significant roles in the region's future stability and governance.

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Syrian Network for Human Rights Syrian Observatory for Human Rights Syrian National Army Syrian Democratic Forces Israeli Military Hayat Tahrir al-Sham United Nations Kurdistan Workers’ Party Amnesty International White Helmets Pentagon U.S. Central Command

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Jacob Wirtschafter is a journalist based in Istanbul, Türkiye.

Gaza War Offers Glimmer of Hope to Syria's Marginalized Opposition

16 Oct 2023  |  themedialine.org  |  English  |  Iran Influence

Syrian opposition figures and experts are highlighting Iran's expanding influence in Syria, seeing an opportunity for Western countries and the UN to intervene. The National Salvation Front, an opposition group, sees the recent Israeli airstrikes as a chance to challenge the Assad regime and Iranian proxies. The US has deployed additional military assets to the region, and opposition figures are advocating for political solutions and decreased Iranian influence. Concerns are raised about the lack of attention to Syrian issues due to the Gaza war and the need for a political solution under UN Resolution 2254.

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Syrian Network for Human Rights Syrian Forum USA Free Syrian Army National Salvation Front Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Hamas Hizbullah United States Department of Defense Omran Center for Strategic Studies Idlib University Aramco United Nations

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