Islamic State takes advantage of Ukraine war to increase attacks

The Islamic State has recently intensified its activity against the Syrian government forces and its allies, setting up a number of ambushes in the Syrian desert and killing dozens.

Syria

Jihadi group raises prices in Syria’s Idlib as war rages in Ukraine

While some believe the Russian war on Ukraine has upped prices in northwest Syria, others accuse Hayat Tahrir al-Sham of exploiting the crisis to make gains.

Syria

Child kidnappings haunt civilians in Syria’s Daraa

Civilians in Syria’s southern province of Daraa are living in constant fear amid increasing cases of kidnappings.

Syria

Analysis

Ukraine war stirs fears Russia could weaponize Syria aid

As Russia wages war in Ukraine, concerns are mounting that Moscow will use its UN Security Council veto powers to dismantle what remains of cross-border aid operations into Syria.

By Elizabeth Hagedorn

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

Islamic State mines kill truffle hunters in Syrian desert

The country's economic collapse and widespread poverty have driven residents to risk their lives to make a living in the desert near Deir ez-Zor.

Syria

Despite unrest, northwest Syria shows baby boom

Births are rising in northwest Syria, including in the displacement camps despite conditions often not being suitable for babies and mothers.

Syria

Islamic State names new leader after prior chief's death

An audio statement from IS confirmed previous reports that Abu al-Hassan al-Hashimi al-Qurashi is its new leader, but his real identity and background is not clear.

Syria

Biden administration to announce sanctions waivers for Syrian Kurds, Sunni opposition-held areas

Sanctions exemptions are aimed at expediting humanitarian aid and diminishing the economic damage in certain areas.

Syria

Lawmakers urge US action on Syria's crisis-hit Rukban camp

The Biden administration faces congressional pressure to help desperate civilians stranded in the Syrian camp near Jordan.

Syria

Jihadis in Idlib bash Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov for role in Ukraine war

Chechen jihadis in Syria seek to join the forces defending Ukraine against Russia while condemning the participation of pro-Russian and leader of Russia's Chechnya region Ramzan Kadyrov in the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Syria

Residents in north Syria grow angry at Turkish-backed rebels over rise in bombings

The wave of assassinations reflects the failure of the Turkish-backed opposition factions to secure the area in north Syria, while their members are accused of facilitating these operations by turning a blind eye on smuggling operations from regime and Kurdish-held areas.

Syria

Will Russia turn to Syrian mercenaries for its Ukraine fight?

Evidence is emerging that the Syrian government and its Russian military partners are recruiting Syrian fighters for potential deployment to the former Soviet state.

Syria