Syrian Civil War (Graphic Photos/Vid Not Allowed)

[ghazi52]

In maps: How Syrian rebels toppled the Assad regime​

it took only 12 days for Syrian rebel groups to topple the country's 50-year-old Assad regime and capture the country's capital of Damascus.

Here's a visual timeline of how it unfolded:

 

[ghazi52]

From Syrian jihadist leader to rebel politician: How Abu Mohammed al-Jolani reinvented himself​

Mina Al-Lami
Jihadist Media Specialist, BBC Monitoring

AFP
Abu Mohammed al-Jolani spoke to supporters at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus hours after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad

Syrian rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani has dropped that nom de guerre associated with his jihadist past, and been using his real name, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in official communiques issued since Thursday, ahead of the fall of President Bashar al-Assad.

This move is part of Jolani's effort to bolster his legitimacy in a new context, as his Islamist militant group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), leading other rebel factions, announces the capture of the Syrian capital, Damascus, solidifying its control over much of the country.

Jolani's transformation is not recent, but has been carefully cultivated over the years, evident not only in his public statements and interviews with international outlets but also in his evolving appearance.

Once clad in traditional jihadist militant attire, he has adopted a more Western-style wardrobe in the past years. Now, as he leads the offensive, he has donned military fatigues, symbolising his role as the commander of the operations room.

But who is Jolani - or Ahmed al-Sharaa - and why and how has he changed?

The IS-Iraq link​

A 2021 PBS interview with Jolani revealed that he was born in 1982 in Saudi Arabia, where his father worked as an oil engineer until 1989.

In that year, the Jolani family returned to Syria, where he grew up and lived in the Mezzeh neighbourhood of Damascus.

Jolani's journey as a jihadist began in Iraq, linked to al-Qaeda through the Islamic State (IS) group's precursor - al-Qaeda in Iraq and, later, the Islamic State of Iraq (ISI).

After the 2003 US-led invasion, he joined other foreign fighters in Iraq and, in 2005, was imprisoned at Camp Bucca, where he enhanced his jihadist affiliations and later on was introduced to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the quiet scholar who would later go on to lead IS.

In 2011, Baghdadi sent Jolani to Syria with funding to establish al-Nusra Front, a covert faction tied to ISI. By 2012, Nusra had become a prominent Syrian fighting force, hiding its IS and al-Qaeda ties.

Reuters
Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi sent Jolani to Syria to establish Al-Nusra Front

Tensions arose in 2013 when Baghdadi's group in Iraq unilaterally declared the merger of the two groups (ISI and Nusra), declaring the creation of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS), and publicly revealing for the first time the links between them.

Jolani resisted, as he wanted to distance his group from ISI's violent tactics, leading to a split.

To get out of that sticky situation, Jolani pledged allegiance to al-Qaeda, making Nusra Front its Syrian branch.

From the start, he prioritised winning Syrian support, distancing himself from IS's brutality and emphasising a more pragmatic approach to jihad.

Joining al-Qaeda​

In April 2013, al-Nusra Front became al-Qaeda's Syrian affiliate, putting it at odds with IS.

While Jolani's move was partly an attempt to maintain local support and avoid alienating Syrians and rebel factions, the al-Qaeda affiliation ultimately did little to benefit this effort.

It became a pressing challenge in 2015 when Nusra and other factions captured Idlib province, forcing them to co-operate in its administration.

Reuters
Jolani rebranded al-Nusra Front as Jabhat Fatah al-Sham in 2016. The following year it became Hayat Tahrir al-Sham

In 2016, Jolani severed ties with al-Qaeda, rebranding the group as Jabhat Fatah al-Sham and later as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in 2017.

While initially appearing superficial, the split revealed deeper divisions. Al-Qaeda accused Jolani of betrayal, leading to defections and the formation of Hurras al-Din, a new al-Qaeda affiliate in Syria, which HTS later crushed in 2020. Members of Hurras al-Din, however, have remained cautiously present in the region.

HTS also targeted IS operatives and foreign fighters in Idlib, dismantling their networks and forcing some to undergo "deradicalisation" programmes.

These moves, justified as efforts to unify militant forces and reduce infighting, signalled Jolani's strategy to position HTS as a dominant and politically viable force in Syria.

Despite the public split from al-Qaeda and name changes, HTS continued to be designated by the UN, US, UK and other countries as a terrorist organisation, and the US maintained a $10m reward for information about Jolani's whereabouts. Western powers considered the break-up to be a façade.

 

[ghazi52]

On Monday, the OPCW said it had contacted Syria "with a view to emphasising the paramount importance of ensuring the safety and security of all chemical weapons related materials and facilities" in the country.


Also on Monday, the Israeli military released photos of its troops who crossed from the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights into the demilitarised buffer zone in Syria where UN peacekeepers are based.

It comes a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the military had temporarily seized control of the so-called Area of Separation, saying the 1974 disengagement agreement with Syria had "collapsed" with the rebel takeover of the country.

The Golan Heights is a rocky plateau about 60km (40 miles) south-west of Damascus.

Israel seized the Golan from Syria in the closing stages of the 1967 Six-Day War and unilaterally annexed it in 1981. The move was not recognised internationally, although the US did so unilaterally in 2019.

Speaking at a news conference on Monday, Saar said the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) was only making "a very limited and temporary step" taken for "security reasons".

He also claimed that Israel had no interest in meddling in internal Syrian affairs and was concerned only with defending its citizens.

Defence Minister Israel Katz meanwhile said the Israeli military would "destroy heavy strategic weapons" - including missile and air defence systems.

 

[RClarkTaylor]

In a dramatic escalation of military operations, Israeli forces have reportedly conducted over 300 targeted airstrikes in Syria over the past 24 hours, effectively destroying the entire Syrian air force. This includes the complete annihilation of all aircraft, including MiG and Sukhoi jets, helicopters, and anti-aircraft systems. The strikes come in the wake of the recent collapse of President Bashar al-Assad'sregime.

Key Developments:​

1. Scope of Airstrikes:
   • The Israeli military launched one of its largest air operations in history, targeting approximately 250 to 300 sites across Syria. This extensive campaign aimed to dismantle the remnants of Assad's military capabilities, focusing on air bases, missile storage facilities, and command centers.
2. Destruction of Military Assets:
   • Reports indicate that Israeli forces have successfully destroyed all operational aircraft and helicopters within the Syrian military. This includes a significant number of fighter jets that had previously posed a threat to Israeli airspace. The airstrikes also targeted anti-aircraft systems that could potentially be used against Israeli aircraft.
3. Strategic Importance:
   • The strikes on Syrian military assets are critical for Israel’s national security strategy, especially in light of the potential for hostile forces to exploit the power vacuum left by Assad's regime. By neutralizing Syria's air capabilities, Israel aims to prevent any resurgence of military threats from its northern neighbor.
4. Israeli Military Statements:
   • Israeli officials have characterized these operations as necessary for maintaining regional stability and security. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that the actions taken are aimed at ensuring that no hostile forces can establish themselves near Israel's borders.
5. International Reactions:
   • The extensive airstrikes have drawn attention from various international actors, including Russia and Iran, both of which have historically supported Assad. Moscow has expressed concerns about the safety of its military personnel stationed in Syria and called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council to address the situation.
6. Impact on Syrian Civil Conflict:
   • The destruction of Syria's military capabilities raises concerns about further destabilization within the country. Analysts warn that without a functioning military structure, Syria could descend into chaos similar to what occurred in Libya after its civil war, with various factions vying for control.
7. Future Implications:
   • As Israel continues its campaign against Syrian military assets, the situation remains fluid. The potential for retaliation from Iranian forces or their proxies could lead to further escalations in hostilities in the region.

Conclusion:​

The recent Israeli airstrikes represent a significant turning point in the ongoing conflict in Syria, effectively dismantling the Syrian air force and altering the balance of power in the region. As Israel seeks to secure its borders against potential threats from a fragmented Syria, the implications for regional stability and international relations will be closely monitored by all stakeholders involved.

 

[HamzaWaseem]

In a dramatic escalation of military operations, Israeli forces have reportedly conducted over 300 targeted airstrikes in Syria over the past 24 hours, effectively destroying the entire Syrian air force. This includes the complete annihilation of all aircraft, including MiG and Sukhoi jets, helicopters, and anti-aircraft systems. The strikes come in the wake of the recent collapse of President Bashar al-Assad'sregime.

Key Developments:​

1. Scope of Airstrikes:
   • The Israeli military launched one of its largest air operations in history, targeting approximately 250 to 300 sites across Syria. This extensive campaign aimed to dismantle the remnants of Assad's military capabilities, focusing on air bases, missile storage facilities, and command centers.
2. Destruction of Military Assets:
   • Reports indicate that Israeli forces have successfully destroyed all operational aircraft and helicopters within the Syrian military. This includes a significant number of fighter jets that had previously posed a threat to Israeli airspace. The airstrikes also targeted anti-aircraft systems that could potentially be used against Israeli aircraft.
3. Strategic Importance:
   • The strikes on Syrian military assets are critical for Israel’s national security strategy, especially in light of the potential for hostile forces to exploit the power vacuum left by Assad's regime. By neutralizing Syria's air capabilities, Israel aims to prevent any resurgence of military threats from its northern neighbor.
4. Israeli Military Statements:
   • Israeli officials have characterized these operations as necessary for maintaining regional stability and security. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that the actions taken are aimed at ensuring that no hostile forces can establish themselves near Israel's borders.
5. International Reactions:
   • The extensive airstrikes have drawn attention from various international actors, including Russia and Iran, both of which have historically supported Assad. Moscow has expressed concerns about the safety of its military personnel stationed in Syria and called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council to address the situation.
6. Impact on Syrian Civil Conflict:
   • The destruction of Syria's military capabilities raises concerns about further destabilization within the country. Analysts warn that without a functioning military structure, Syria could descend into chaos similar to what occurred in Libya after its civil war, with various factions vying for control.
7. Future Implications:
   • As Israel continues its campaign against Syrian military assets, the situation remains fluid. The potential for retaliation from Iranian forces or their proxies could lead to further escalations in hostilities in the region.

Conclusion:​

The recent Israeli airstrikes represent a significant turning point in the ongoing conflict in Syria, effectively dismantling the Syrian air force and altering the balance of power in the region. As Israel seeks to secure its borders against potential threats from a fragmented Syria, the implications for regional stability and international relations will be closely monitored by all stakeholders involved.

View attachment 1035272View attachment 1035273View attachment 1035274View attachment 1035275

The Israeli Air Force has conducted airstrikes on the Latakia port in Syria, targeting naval assets linked to the former regime of President Bashar al-Assad. This operation is part of Israel's ongoing efforts to prevent advanced weaponry from reaching hostile forces in the region.

Key Developments:​

1. Targeting Naval Assets:
   • The strikes on Latakia port are aimed at destroying military infrastructure associated with the Assad regime. These include missile storage facilities, air defense systems, and potentially chemical weapons sites that could be used by Iranian-backed militias operating within Syria.
2. Escalation of Attacks:
   • Reports indicate that Israel has intensified its military operations following the recent political changes in Syria, particularly after Assad's fall. In just one day, Israeli forces executed over 100 strikes across various military targets in Syria, including air bases and naval facilities.
3. Strategic Importance of Latakia:
   • Latakia is a vital logistical hub for the Syrian military and has been a focal point for Iranian and Hezbollah operations. By targeting this port, Israel aims to disrupt supply lines and prevent hostile forces from gaining access to advanced military capabilities.
4. Ongoing Conflict Dynamics:
   • The situation in Syria remains fluid as various factions vie for control following the collapse of Assad's regime. The rise of groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has added complexity to the conflict, with HTS expressing intentions to push towards coastal cities like Latakia and Tartous.
5. International Reactions:
   • The international community is closely watching these developments, particularly given the potential for increased tensions between Israel and Iran, as well as the implications for regional stability. The strikes have raised concerns about further escalation in an already volatile environment.
6. Impact on Civilians:
   • As military operations continue, civilians in the region face increasing risks. The targeting of infrastructure often leads to collateral damage, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Syria where many are already displaced or lacking essential resources.

Conclusion:​

The Israeli airstrikes on Latakia port signify a significant escalation in Israel's military campaign against Syrian military assets linked to Iran and the remnants of Assad's regime. As Israel seeks to secure its borders and prevent hostile forces from gaining strength, the implications for regional security and civilian safety remain critical concerns for both local populations and international observers.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866184801394294897

 

[AbdulQadir7]

The recent developments surrounding Sednaya Prison in Syria have brought to light the harrowing experiences of detainees, including the discovery of Osama Al-Bataineh, a Jordanian who was found alive after being missing for 38 years. His case highlights the brutal conditions and the extensive history of human rights abuses within this notorious facility.

Key Details about Sednaya Prison:​

1. Historical Context:
   • Sednaya Prison, located near Damascus, has been described as a "human slaughterhouse" and a "death camp" due to the systematic torture, executions, and inhumane treatment of prisoners. Since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011, it has become infamous for holding political prisoners and those opposing the Assad regime.
2. Conditions Within the Prison:
   • Reports indicate that detainees faced extreme torture and were subjected to executions on a daily basis. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights estimates that between 5,000 and 13,000 people were extrajudicially executed at Sednaya between 2011 and 2015. Survivors have described conditions that include forced disappearances, severe beatings, and sexual violence.
3. Rescue Operations:
   • Following the recent military advances by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), thousands of prisoners were liberated from Sednaya during an operation that led to the fall of Assad’s regime. Reports suggest that between 20,000 and 25,000 prisoners have been freed, although many remain unaccounted for.
4. Discovery of Osama Al-Bataineh:
   • Osama Al-Bataineh's case is particularly striking as he was found alive after nearly four decades in captivity. Upon his discovery, he was reported to be suffering from complete memory loss, underscoring the psychological and physical toll of prolonged imprisonment under such brutal conditions.
5. Ongoing Investigations:
   • Rescue teams, including the White Helmets, are actively searching for hidden cells within Sednaya where additional detainees may still be trapped. The complexity of the prison's layout has led to fears that many individuals remain unaccounted for.
6. International Response:
   • Human rights organizations have condemned the actions of the Assad regime and are calling for accountability for the atrocities committed within Sednaya Prison. The international community is urged to investigate these crimes against humanity thoroughly.
7. Survivor Accounts:
   • Former inmates have provided chilling accounts of their experiences, detailing systematic torture designed not just to extract information but to degrade and punish individuals. Amnesty International has documented these abuses extensively through interviews with survivors.

Conclusion:​

The situation at Sednaya Prison serves as a stark reminder of the brutal realities faced by political prisoners in Syria. The discovery of Osama Al-Bataineh alive after 38 years highlights both the resilience of individuals enduring such horrors and the urgent need for justice and accountability for those responsible for these human rights violations. As rescue operations continue, the full extent of the abuses at Sednaya may still unfold, emphasizing the importance of international attention and action regarding Syria's ongoing humanitarian crisis.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866219144758084046

 

[sidkhan2]

The Israeli Air Force has conducted airstrikes on the Latakia port in Syria, targeting naval assets linked to the former regime of President Bashar al-Assad. This operation is part of Israel's ongoing efforts to prevent advanced weaponry from reaching hostile forces in the region.

Key Developments:​

1. Targeting Naval Assets:
   • The strikes on Latakia port are aimed at destroying military infrastructure associated with the Assad regime. These include missile storage facilities, air defense systems, and potentially chemical weapons sites that could be used by Iranian-backed militias operating within Syria.
2. Escalation of Attacks:
   • Reports indicate that Israel has intensified its military operations following the recent political changes in Syria, particularly after Assad's fall. In just one day, Israeli forces executed over 100 strikes across various military targets in Syria, including air bases and naval facilities.
3. Strategic Importance of Latakia:
   • Latakia is a vital logistical hub for the Syrian military and has been a focal point for Iranian and Hezbollah operations. By targeting this port, Israel aims to disrupt supply lines and prevent hostile forces from gaining access to advanced military capabilities.
4. Ongoing Conflict Dynamics:
   • The situation in Syria remains fluid as various factions vie for control following the collapse of Assad's regime. The rise of groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has added complexity to the conflict, with HTS expressing intentions to push towards coastal cities like Latakia and Tartous.
5. International Reactions:
   • The international community is closely watching these developments, particularly given the potential for increased tensions between Israel and Iran, as well as the implications for regional stability. The strikes have raised concerns about further escalation in an already volatile environment.
6. Impact on Civilians:
   • As military operations continue, civilians in the region face increasing risks. The targeting of infrastructure often leads to collateral damage, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Syria where many are already displaced or lacking essential resources.

Conclusion:​

The Israeli airstrikes on Latakia port signify a significant escalation in Israel's military campaign against Syrian military assets linked to Iran and the remnants of Assad's regime. As Israel seeks to secure its borders and prevent hostile forces from gaining strength, the implications for regional security and civilian safety remain critical concerns for both local populations and international observers.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866184801394294897

NEW:

The Israeli occupation tanks drove through Damascus country side , 19 km from the capital.
Noone is opposing them.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866325976675766592

 

[Akbar26]

The Israeli Air Force has conducted airstrikes on the Latakia port in Syria, targeting naval assets linked to the former regime of President Bashar al-Assad. This operation is part of Israel's ongoing efforts to prevent advanced weaponry from reaching hostile forces in the region.

Key Developments:​

1. Targeting Naval Assets:
   • The strikes on Latakia port are aimed at destroying military infrastructure associated with the Assad regime. These include missile storage facilities, air defense systems, and potentially chemical weapons sites that could be used by Iranian-backed militias operating within Syria.
2. Escalation of Attacks:
   • Reports indicate that Israel has intensified its military operations following the recent political changes in Syria, particularly after Assad's fall. In just one day, Israeli forces executed over 100 strikes across various military targets in Syria, including air bases and naval facilities.
3. Strategic Importance of Latakia:
   • Latakia is a vital logistical hub for the Syrian military and has been a focal point for Iranian and Hezbollah operations. By targeting this port, Israel aims to disrupt supply lines and prevent hostile forces from gaining access to advanced military capabilities.
4. Ongoing Conflict Dynamics:
   • The situation in Syria remains fluid as various factions vie for control following the collapse of Assad's regime. The rise of groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has added complexity to the conflict, with HTS expressing intentions to push towards coastal cities like Latakia and Tartous.
5. International Reactions:
   • The international community is closely watching these developments, particularly given the potential for increased tensions between Israel and Iran, as well as the implications for regional stability. The strikes have raised concerns about further escalation in an already volatile environment.
6. Impact on Civilians:
   • As military operations continue, civilians in the region face increasing risks. The targeting of infrastructure often leads to collateral damage, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Syria where many are already displaced or lacking essential resources.

Conclusion:​

The Israeli airstrikes on Latakia port signify a significant escalation in Israel's military campaign against Syrian military assets linked to Iran and the remnants of Assad's regime. As Israel seeks to secure its borders and prevent hostile forces from gaining strength, the implications for regional security and civilian safety remain critical concerns for both local populations and international observers.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866184801394294897

Israeli tanks are advancing north along the border between Syria and Lebanon, positioning themselves approximately 10 miles from the outskirts of Damascus. This military maneuver follows Israel's recent incursions into Syrian territory, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict and raising concerns about regional stability.

Key Developments​

• Israeli Military Incursion: Israeli ground forces have crossed into a buffer zone established by a 1974 ceasefire agreement with Syria, which has been monitored by UN peacekeepers. This is reportedly the first explicit entry of Israeli troops into Syrian territory since the October War of 1973. Israeli officials have stated that this move is necessary to secure the area following the withdrawal of Syrian troops amid the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime.
• Strategic Objectives: The Israeli military aims to prevent hostile elements from establishing a foothold near its borders, particularly in light of the increasing influence of rebel factions and extremist groups in Syria. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that these actions are defensive and intended to maintain security along the border.
• Airstrikes and Military Operations: Concurrently, Israel has conducted extensive airstrikes across Syria, targeting military assets, including weapons depots and missile launchers. Reports suggest that these strikes are aimed at preventing advanced weaponry from falling into the hands of groups perceived as threats to Israel's security.

Regional Reactions​

The situation has prompted strong reactions from neighboring countries. Turkey has condemned Israel's actions as an occupation mentality, while other regional players have expressed concern over the potential for increased instability in Syria. The ongoing conflict has created a complex geopolitical landscape, with various actors vying for influence amid a power vacuum left by Assad's regime.

Implications for Security​

The advancement of Israeli forces towards Damascus raises significant questions about future military engagements and the potential for direct confrontations with Syrian or allied forces. Analysts warn that Israel's actions could lead to further escalation in an already volatile region, particularly if militant groups seek to retaliate or if Iranian-backed forces respond to protect their interests in Syria.

Conclusion​

Israel's recent military maneuvers along the Syrian-Lebanese border reflect a strategic effort to secure its borders against perceived threats following the upheaval in Syria. As tensions rise and military operations intensify, the implications for regional stability remain uncertain, with potential consequences for both Israeli security and broader Middle Eastern dynamics. The situation continues to evolve, necessitating close monitoring of developments on the ground.

 

[AbdulQadir7]

The situation in Syria has been marked by severe human rights violations and atrocities committed over the past decades, particularly under the regime of Bashar al-Assad. The term "living grave" reflects the immense suffering endured by the Syrian population, with reports indicating that the Iranian Revolutionary Guards and the Quds Force have played significant roles in supporting Assad's government in its brutal crackdown on dissent.

Atrocities Committed​

1. Systematic Human Rights Violations: Various human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have documented widespread abuses, including:
   • Arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances: Thousands of individuals have been detained without trial, many of whom remain missing.
   • Torture and extrajudicial killings: Reports indicate that detainees are often subjected to torture, leading to numerous deaths in custody.
   • Use of chemical weapons: The Assad regime has been accused of deploying chemical agents against civilians, constituting war crimes.
2. Indiscriminate Attacks on Civilians: The Syrian government has conducted aerial bombardments and shelling of civilian areas, leading to mass casualties and destruction of infrastructure. This has been characterized as a campaign of terror against the civilian population.
3. Collaboration with Iranian Forces: The Iranian military and its affiliated groups have provided crucial support to Assad's forces, contributing to the repression of protests and armed opposition. Their involvement has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, as they have been implicated in various war crimes alongside Syrian forces.

Calls for Accountability​

There are growing demands for an international inquiry into these atrocities. Many advocates for justice argue that an independent commission should be established to investigate the actions of Bashar al-Assad, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, and other actors involved in the conflict. The establishment of such a commission could pave the way for accountability and reparations for victims.

Conclusion​

The ongoing conflict in Syria represents a profound humanitarian crisis characterized by systematic violence and repression. The call for an inquiry into these atrocities reflects a broader desire for justice and recognition of the suffering endured by millions. As the situation continues to evolve, it is imperative that the international community takes action to address these violations and support efforts towards accountability and reconciliation.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866183492725571864

 

[RClarkTaylor]

Suheil Hamwi's Emotional Homecoming After 32 Years in Syrian Prisons Background:
Suheil Hamwi, a Lebanese man, has returned to his homeland after spending 32 years imprisoned in Syria. His release follows an insurgent offensive that led to the downfall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Hamwi was among many Lebanese citizens detained during Syria's occupation of Lebanon from 1976 to 2005.

The Abduction​

• Date and Circumstances: In 1992, Hamwi was a merchant in Chekka, Lebanon. On the evening of Eid il-Burbara, he was approached at home by a man interested in purchasing whiskey. After handing his 10-month-old son to his wife, he stepped outside to retrieve the whiskey, only to be forcibly taken by armed men in a vehicle.
• Family's Uncertainty: For years, his family had no information about his fate. It wasn't until 16 years later that his wife discovered he was imprisoned in Syria, and even then, the reasons for his arrest remained unclear until four more years passed, when he was informed of his affiliation with the Lebanese Forces, a group opposing Syrian military presence in Lebanon.

Life in Prison​

• Conditions and Isolation: Hamwi spent years in various prisons, including the notorious Saydnaya prison, experiencing torture early in his incarceration but later living in near-total isolation. He described interrogations as vague and lacking legal representation.
• Family Visits: His wife was permitted to visit him for the first time in 2008, managing to see him about once a year thereafter.

The Escape​

• Turning Point: Recently, whispers of insurgent advances reached the prisoners. On December 10, 2024, chaos erupted as guards abandoned their posts. Hamwi and fellow inmates seized the opportunity to escape, with rebels storming the prison and unlocking cell doors.
• Journey Home: After escaping, Hamwi navigated through unfamiliar streets with the help of strangers before crossing back into Lebanon through the Arida border crossing.

Homecoming​

• Reunion with Family: Upon returning home, Hamwi was greeted by his two grandchildren for the first time. Overwhelmed with emotion, he reflected on the photographs of moments he had missed during his captivity.
• Community Celebration: Neighbors gathered to celebrate his return, sharing sweets and stories as they welcomed him back into the community.

Future Aspirations​

Hamwi has begun medical assessments to understand the impact of his long imprisonment and is learning to adjust to life outside prison walls. He looks forward to reuniting with his only son, George, who is currently working abroad. Their first phone conversation was filled with affection, as George expressed how much he missed him and looked forward to their reunion.

Conclusion​

Suheil Hamwi's return marks a poignant moment not only for him but also for many families affected by Syria's tumultuous history. His story sheds light on the enduring impacts of conflict and the resilience of those who have suffered under oppressive regimes. As he navigates this new chapter of freedom, Hamwi embodies hope for others who continue to seek justice and reconciliation in a region still grappling with its past.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866904006137700402

 

[sidkhan2]

Mount Hermon, a mountain cluster located on the border between Syria and Israel, has been a focal point of territorial disputes and military significance. Following the recent changes in the Syrian political landscape, particularly after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, there are claims that Mount Hermon is now effectively under Israeli control.

Key Points​

1. Geopolitical Context: Historically, Mount Hermon has been strategically important due to its elevation and location. The mountain's highest point, at 2,814 meters, straddles the border between Syria and Israel, with portions of it located in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.
2. Israeli Control: After the collapse of Assad's regime, Israeli forces reportedly took over the highest summit of Mount Hermon on December 8, 2024. This move is seen as a consolidation of Israeli control over the region, which has been under military occupation since the 1967 Six-Day War.
3. Ski Resort and Settlement: The southern slopes of Mount Hermon host the Mount Hermon ski resort, which is operated by Israeli settlers from Neve Ativ. This resort has become a symbol of Israeli presence in the Golan Heights and operates under Israeli law following the enactment of the Golan Heights Law in 1981.
4. Legal and Ownership Issues: The ownership and legal status of Mount Hermon remain contentious. While Israel administers parts of the mountain, international law typically views this territory as occupied land. The ongoing conflict and changes in control have complicated discussions regarding sovereignty.
5. Regional Implications: The assertion that Mount Hermon "no longer belongs to Syria" reflects broader geopolitical shifts in the region. The involvement of various factions and external powers in Syria has created a complex landscape where territorial claims are increasingly challenged.

Conclusion​

The situation surrounding Mount Hermon encapsulates the intricate dynamics of territorial control in a region marked by conflict and shifting alliances. As Israel consolidates its presence following recent developments, the implications for Syrian sovereignty and regional stability remain significant. The future status of Mount Hermon will likely continue to be a contentious issue in Israeli-Syrian relations and broader Middle Eastern geopolitics.

 

[sidkhan2]

Israeli forces are reportedly obstructing access for residents to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, particularly during Friday prayers. This restriction has been implemented as part of broader security measures during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Key Details​

1. Access Restrictions: Israeli authorities have barred many Palestinians from entering Al-Aqsa Mosque, allowing only specific groups to access the site. Reports indicate that only men over the age of 55, women over the age of 50, and children under 10 are permitted entry, effectively excluding a large portion of the Muslim population.
2. Increased Military Presence: A significant number of Israeli soldiers and police have been deployed throughout East Jerusalem to enforce these restrictions. Witnesses have reported that many individuals attempting to enter were denied access, often under claims of lacking necessary permits.
3. Impact on Worshippers: Many Palestinians have expressed frustration and sadness over being prevented from praying at one of their holiest sites. Individuals with valid permits have also faced denial of entry, raising concerns about the arbitrary nature of these restrictions.
4. Historical Context: Access to Al-Aqsa Mosque has been a contentious issue, especially during periods of heightened tensions in the region. Israeli policies often change in response to security concerns, leading to restrictions that disproportionately affect Palestinian Muslims.
5. International Concerns: The ongoing restrictions have drawn criticism from various international bodies and neighboring countries, including Jordan, which oversees the site. There are warnings that such measures could lead to increased tensions and violence in the region.
6. Broader Implications: The restrictions on access to Al-Aqsa Mosque not only affect religious practices but also contribute to the ongoing conflict surrounding Israeli-Palestinian relations. The situation remains fluid, with potential for escalation if access issues continue.

Conclusion​

The obstruction of access to Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli forces highlights ongoing tensions surrounding religious freedoms and rights in Jerusalem. As the situation evolves, it is crucial for all parties involved to seek solutions that respect the rights of worshippers while addressing security concerns. The implications for regional stability and peace remain significant as these events unfold during a sensitive period in the Islamic calendar.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1867523651157078076

 

[Akbar26]

The massive explosion following Israeli airstrikes on a weapons depot near Tartous, Syria, underscores the intensity of the strike. Tartous is a significant site due to its proximity to a key Russian naval base, which often adds complexity to military actions in the region. Strikes on weapons depots typically aim to disrupt the transfer or storage of advanced weaponry, often linked to Iranian arms shipments intended for Hezbollah or other allied forces in Syria.

The magnitude of the blast, large enough to trigger an earthquake alert, suggests the depot may have contained high-explosive munitions, fuel, or other volatile materials. Similar past incidents have had broader geopolitical repercussions, especially when they occur near Russian military assets.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1868427139701182554

 

[HaiderAfan]

Israel is bombing Syrian cities now.
Powerful explosions are being heard everywhere.
This is absolute terrorism!!

 

[LegionnairE]

All signs are showing that Turkish army is preparing to take Kobani. I expect a repeat of the Afrin offensive.