SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

Deir Ezzor, March 15 (SANA) Syrian security forces have arrested 12 members of the ISIS group during a security operation in eastern Syria, the Interior Ministry said Sunday.

The ministry said in a statement on its Telegram channel that the Internal Security Forces, working in coordination with the General Intelligence Directorate, carried out a targeted operation in the Abu Kamal and al-Bsyrah areas following extensive intelligence gathering and surveillance.

According to the statement, seven individuals were arrested in Abu Kamal and five in al-Bsyrah. The arrests followed close monitoring of the movements of individuals suspected of activities threatening security and stability in the region.

The ministry said investigations with the detainees are ongoing in accordance with legal procedures before judicial action is taken against those found responsible.

It added that security agencies will continue to monitor activities that could threaten public safety and regional stability, stressing their commitment to the rule of law and the protection of civil peace.

Earlier in February, the ministry carried out an operation in Deir Ezzor province against ISIS members following an attack on a checkpoint of the 86th Division of the Ministry of Defense.

Fedaa al-Rahayiah

Damascus, March 15 (SANA) As Eid al-Fitr approaches, the scent of freshly baked sweets drifting through the narrow streets of Damascus recalls a long-standing tradition: neighborhood ovens where families once gathered to bake holiday pastries.

For generations, these traditional ovens were more than simple bakeries. They formed part of the city’s social life during Ramadan , when families brought trays of maamoul, baklava and other sweets to be baked over wood fires ahead of the holiday.

Heritage researcher Dr. Najlaa al-Khadraa said the ovens remain a symbol of Damascene culture despite the spread of modern home appliances.

“Even today, sweets baked in the neighborhood oven have a unique taste linked to Eid celebrations,” she told SANA.

Historically, many homes lacked suitable ovens for delicate pastries, relying instead on traditional stoves used mainly for cooking. As a result, families turned to market ovens built of stone, whose large fire chambers distributed heat evenly and produced distinctive flavors.

These ovens were often located in the heart of old markets or neighborhood squares. Bakers used long wooden tools to slide large copper trays deep into the ovens while residents waited nearby, exchanging greetings and holiday wishes.

Preparations typically began days before Eid. Families gathered to prepare dough and fillings of dates, walnuts or pistachios before carrying marked trays through neighborhood alleys to the oven. As the pastries baked, the aroma of clarified butter and wood smoke spread through the streets, signaling that the holiday was near.
Although modern gas and electric ovens have reduced their use, a handful of traditional ovens still operate in Damascus. According to historical records, about 70 such ovens existed in the city until the early 20th century, but fewer than 10 remain today, many operating only seasonally.

Researchers say preserving these ovens is about more than maintaining a traditional cooking method, it also protects a piece of Damascus’ cultural and social heritage tied to Ramadan and Eid celebrations.

K.A.A

Washington, March 15 (SANA) U.S. technology giants including Alphabet (Google), Amazon, Meta and Microsoft are preparing to invest more than $650 billion in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure by 2026, according to reports cited by Bloomberg.

The spending reflects an intensifying global race to develop advanced AI technologies and expand the digital infrastructure needed to support them.

Investment Plans

The companies are expected to direct much of the funding toward data centers, AI chips, servers and cloud infrastructure, marking one of the largest capital investment waves in the technology sector.

Company Spending Plans

• Amazon is expected to spend about $200 billion on AI infrastructure and cloud computing.
• Alphabet (Google) plans to invest roughly $185 billion in AI-focused data centers and specialized processors.
• Meta aims to allocate around $65 billion to expand AI infrastructure and recruit thousands of specialists as part of an “AI-first” strategy.
• Microsoft has not disclosed exact figures but is expected to remain among the largest investors in AI and cloud infrastructure.

Global AI Competition

The investments are designed to strengthen companies’ ability to run advanced AI models and expand cloud services that power applications such as generative AI, data analytics and automation.

Analysts say the surge in spending highlights growing competition among technology companies to dominate the global AI market.

Opportunities and Risks

While the investments could generate major technological and economic gains, analysts warn that such large spending carries risks if projects fail to produce sufficient returns.

Market volatility and intensifying global competition may also force companies to reassess their strategies in the coming years.

k.A.A

London, March 15 (SANA) Britain’s Special Envoy to Syria, Ann Snow, reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for Syria and its people ahead of the 15th anniversary of the Syrian revolution.

In a post on X on Sunday, Snow reflected on the past 15 years, highlighting progress made since the day of liberation and affirming that the UK would continue to stand by Syria.

She said Britain would work with partners to support a stable, secure and prosperous future for all Syrians.

Syrians will mark the 15th anniversary of the revolution on March 18, commemorating the uprising against the deposed regime and calls for freedom, reform and an end to decades of oppression. These goals were achieved on December 8, 2024, the day of liberation.

R.H

Damascus, Mar. 15 (SANA) Syria’s Interior Ministry announced that several Internal Security personnel involved in insulting religious symbols in Sweida province have been detained and that legal measures are being taken against them.

In a statement published on its Telegram channel, the ministry said that after images circulated on social media showing Internal Security members in Sweida insulting religious symbols, authorities moved to address the incident.

The ministry confirmed that the personnel involved were arrested and that legal procedures are underway in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. It stressed that such behavior is unacceptable and does not represent the principles of the security institution or the values of the Syrian state.

The ministry added that Syria is a state that brings together citizens from different religious and social backgrounds, emphasizing that respecting citizens’ dignity and safeguarding the religious and social symbols of all communities without discrimination are fundamental principles guiding state institutions.

It reiterated that any insult directed at any community or its symbols constitutes a violation of the law regardless of the individual’s position.

The ministry concluded that Syria’s religious and social diversity remains a source of strength for society and that maintaining mutual respect among all citizens is essential for strengthening stability and civil peace.

M.Q.R

Washington, March 15 (SANA) Kharg Island, a small but crucial oil export hub Iran, has emerged as a strategic focal point amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Recent U.S. strikes on military targets near the island have highlighted its importance to Iran’s economy and to global energy markets.

Analysts warn that any disruption to operations at Kharg could have significant repercussions for global oil supply chains.

A Critical Node in Iran’s Oil Economy

Kharg Island serves as Iran’s primary oil export terminal, handling roughly 90% of the country’s crude exports to global markets. Its deepwater facilities allow large tankers to load oil destined mainly for Asian buyers, including China.

The island has the capacity to load millions of barrels of oil per day and store tens of millions of barrels, making it a central pillar of Iran’s energy infrastructure and a key source of government revenue.

Geography and Global Energy Routes

Located off Iran’s southern coast, Kharg lies near the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes daily.

Its deepwater jetties and pipelines linking major oilfields enable the island to handle large tanker traffic, giving Kharg strategic importance far beyond its modest size.

Strategic Messaging Behind U.S. Strikes

Geopolitical analysts say U.S. strikes on military facilities linked to Kharg are intended to demonstrate Washington’s military reach without directly damaging oil infrastructure.

By targeting defensive positions rather than export terminals, the United States appears to be applying pressure on Tehran while limiting the risk of major disruptions to global energy markets.

Military and Economic Implications

Kharg’s exposed offshore location makes it more vulnerable to potential air or naval attacks compared with inland facilities. Analysts say even limited strikes could disrupt Iran’s export capacity and reduce government revenues.

Iran has warned that attacks on its energy infrastructure could trigger retaliatory strikes on oil facilities elsewhere in the region.

Risks to Global Energy Markets

Energy experts caution that a major disruption at Kharg could remove significant volumes of Iranian crude from global markets. Exports from the island are estimated at around 1.5 million barrels per day, and any prolonged disruption could tighten supply and increase price volatility.

Strategic Crossroads of Conflict and Energy

The growing military focus on Kharg Island underscores the close link between energy infrastructure and geopolitical strategy. As tensions rise, the island stands at the intersection of regional conflict, global energy security and international market stability.


K.A.A

Abuja, March 15 (SANA) Gunmen killed 20 people, including security personnel and local vigilantes, in an ambush attack Sunday in Plateau State in central Nigeria.

AFP quoted the Kanam Development Association (KADA) as saying in a statement that gunmen ambushed Nigerian soldiers on routine patrol, killing 12 security personnel and eight others.

The attackers also stormed a nearby village and looted property.

The association said the violence has worsened the suffering of already vulnerable rural communities, noting that villages in the region have faced frequent attacks and kidnappings in recent years.

On Feb. 26, Nigerian authorities said at least 25 people, including three soldiers, were killed in two separate attacks by gunmen targeting the towns of Madagali and Hong in Adamawa State in northeastern Nigeria.

Fedaa al- Rahayiah

Gaza, March 15 (SANA) The death toll from Israeli attacks on Gaza since Oct. 7, 2023, has risen to 72,239, with 171,861 people injured, the Palestinian Health Ministry said.

The Palestinian news agency WAFA quoted the ministry as saying that Gaza hospitals received five bodies and eight injured people over the past 24 hours.

Since the ceasefire that took effect on Oct. 10, the ministry said 663 people have been killed, 1,762 injured, and 756 bodies recovered.

Months of Israeli attacks have caused widespread destruction across Gaza, severely damaging infrastructure and displacing large numbers of Palestinians.

Medical and humanitarian teams continue to face major challenges in reaching victims due to extensive damage, shortages of resources and ongoing strikes, the report said.

R.H

Capitals, March 15 (SANA) Global energy markets have seen a sharp surge in oil and gas prices as tensions rise amid the escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, once again highlighting the fragility of supply chains and strategic chokepoints.

Europe, already working to reduce its dependence on Russian gas, now faces the dual challenge of securing energy supplies while maintaining climate commitments and long-term plans for a green transition.

To ease pressure, European countries are diversifying energy sources by importing liquefied natural gas from the United States, Qatar and Algeria, along with oil supplies from Norway, the United Kingdom, North Africa and Brazil. Officials are also exploring new pipeline routes to avoid strategic chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz.

Despite efforts to cut reliance on Russian energy, implementation remains complex. Some countries — including Hungary and Slovakia — remain heavily dependent on Russian gas, while the Czech Republic maintains supply links through the Druzhba pipeline.

Political tensions also surround the pipeline. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected proposals linking Ukraine’s access to €90 billion in European Union loans to reopening the Druzhba route for Russian oil shipments to Hungary and Slovakia, describing the suggestion as “blackmail”.

Norway is emerging as a key alternative supplier as it seeks to expand exploration in the Barents Sea. Norwegian Energy Minister Terje Aasland said new exploration areas could produce billions of cubic meters of oil and gas equivalent, but warned that escalation in the Strait of Hormuz could force Europe to reconsider aspects of its energy strategy.

Despite sanctions, Russia still accounts for about 20% of the European Union’s liquefied natural gas imports, while President Vladimir Putin has reiterated Moscow’s readiness to supply oil and gas under normal commercial agreements.

The European Commission has proposed a roadmap to phase out Russian energy by 2028, including banning new gas contracts by 2026, ending long-term imports by 2027, and requiring member states to submit plans to reduce dependence by 2025.

With disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz — through which about one-fifth of global oil and LNG trade passes — Europe is also exploring alternative shipping routes and maritime imports from suppliers such as Norway, the United Kingdom, Algeria and Brazil.

Analysts warn that rising geopolitical tensions continue to expose the vulnerability of global energy markets and could have lasting economic and strategic consequences.

M.Q.R

Washington, March 15 (SANA) The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran is driving military spending to unprecedented levels, with daily war costs estimated at more than $1 billion, while Israel faces a growing shortage of interceptor missiles, analysts say.

The rising expenses are placing increasing pressure on defense budgets and regional stability, while also affecting global energy markets.

U.S. War Costs Near $20 Billion

According to the “Iran Cost Ticker,” cited by CNBC Arabia, U.S. military operations against Iran have already cost nearly $20 billion.

Pentagon briefings indicated that $11.3 billion was spent during the first six days of the conflict, with daily costs continuing at roughly $1 billion. Real-time estimates suggest spending is equivalent to more than $11,000 per second, with costs likely to rise alongside higher fuel prices.

Despite the high expenditures, several sectors of the U.S. economy have benefited. Shares in defense and energy companies have risen since the start of the conflict, including Lockheed Martin, whose stock climbed about 4%, and RTX, the manufacturer of Patriot missile systems. Stocks of major oil and shale companies have also gained between 1% and 10%.

Israel Boosts Military Spending

Israel has increased defense spending to cover the costs of the war, while economic losses linked to the conflict are estimated at $3 billion per week due to disruptions in business activity.

The government is expected to require an additional $13 billion to sustain military operations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans for a “special budget” to finance the war effort and maintain military readiness.

Shortage of Interceptor Missiles

U.S. news outlet Semaphore reported that Israel is facing a significant shortage of ballistic missile interceptors amid continued attacks from Iran and Hezbollah.

Long-range missile defense systems have come under increasing pressure as Iran reportedly incorporates cluster munitions into its missile arsenal.

A U.S. official told the outlet that while Washington currently has enough interceptors to protect its forces and bases in the region, Israel is actively seeking solutions to address its shortage.

Global Economic Impact

As the conflict enters its third week, diplomatic efforts to end the fighting have yet to produce results.

Analysts warn that rising military spending and escalating hostilities could have far-reaching economic and strategic consequences, with global energy markets already showing signs of strain.

K.A.A

Beirut, March 15 (SANA) UNIFIL spokesman Danny Alghafari called for an end to the military escalation in southern Lebanon, warning that Israeli airstrikes are putting civilians and peacekeepers at risk.

Alghafari said in a statement Sunday that military escalation in southern Lebanon has continued since March 2, with cross-border fire and a recent shooting incident targeting UN force.

The spokesman condemned the attack on UNIFIL and urged all parties to uphold their obligations and ensure the safety of peacekeepers.

He noted that about 7,500 UN troops continue operating south of the Litani River under UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

Alghafari added that UNIFIL forces continue to monitor and document violations, report them to the Security Council, facilitate humanitarian access and protect civilians.

R.A

Amman, March 8 (SANA) Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi discussed the repercussions of ongoing military escalation in the region during a phone call Sunday with his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty, Jordan’s state news agency Petra reported.

Petra said the two ministers reviewed prospects for de-escalation and stressed the importance of diplomacy to strengthen security and stability in the region.

Safadi condemned the “unjustified Iranian attacks” on Jordanian territory and other Arab states, saying the kingdom would take all necessary steps to protect its security, stability and sovereignty.

He also reiterated Jordan’s solidarity with Gulf Cooperation Council states in confronting Iranian aggression.

In turn, Abdelatty affirmed Egypt’s condemnation of the Iranian attacks on Jordan and expressed Cairo’s solidarity with the kingdom.

The talks come amid rising regional tensions linked to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

Nicosia, March 8 (SANA) Cyprus Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos said the explosive-laden drones that targeted a British military base in Cyprus were launched from Lebanon.

He told Al Jazeera on Sunday that “the focus must now be on the Lebanese front, and no possibility can be ruled out.”

The remarks come amid rising regional tensions after Hezbollah militia expressed support for Iran in its conflict with the U.S. and Israel.

Hezbollah fired rockets at Israeli positions, prompting Israel to strike the southern suburbs of Beirut and areas in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, killing about 300 people, injuring hundreds and causing widespread damage.

Earlier, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides said the RAF Akrotiri base had been hit overnight by an Iranian “Shahed” drone, causing material damage but no casualties

Occupied Jerusalem , March 8  (SANA) The Palestinian Ministry of Women’s Affairs said women in Gaza are among the hardest hit by the ongoing Israeli war, with more than 12,500 killed since the war began.

The ministry said the victims include more than 9,000 mothers, while children, women and the elderly account for more than 55 percent of the casualties.

The conflict has left 21,193 widows and about 56,000 orphaned children, while hundreds of thousands of families have lost their homes.

More than two million Palestinians have been displaced, many of them women living in shelters and temporary camps.

The ministry also highlighted that 107,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women face severe health risks amid the collapse of Gaza’s healthcare system.

It called on the international community to ensure the protection of civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid access.

Amman, March 8 (SANA) Jordanian Prime Minister and Defense Minister Jafar Hassan held phone calls on Sunday with senior officials from Saudi Arabia, Palestinian and Lebanon to discuss escalating regional tensions and recent security developments.

During a call with Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, Hassan discussed the implications of the latest regional developments and condemned Iranian attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, Jordan and several other Arab states, according to Jordan’s state-run Petra news agency.

Both sides affirmed their countries’ right to take necessary measures to safeguard national security and stability.

In a separate call, Hassan spoke with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam about the deteriorating situation in the region and Israeli strikes on Lebanon, which he said were unacceptable.

Hassan also reaffirmed Jordan’s solidarity with Lebanon and its support for the Lebanese government’s efforts to maintain security and stability.

In talks with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, Hassan discussed ways to intensify regional and international efforts to contain tensions and prevent a broader conflict.

Both sides warned against attempts to exploit the current situation to impose new realities in the West Bank, Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, stressing the importance of protecting the Palestinian people.

The U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran have entered their second week, with rising regional tensions following continued exchanges of attacks.

N.J

Beijing, March 8 (SANA) China’s foreign minister called on Sunday for continued dialogue with the United States, warning that a breakdown in communication between the world’s two largest economies could lead to miscalculation and global instability.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi said cutting off contact would only deepen misunderstanding and increase the risk of confrontation.

“Suspending communication only fuels misunderstanding and pushes matters toward confrontation that harms the entire world,” Wang told reporters at a press conference on the sidelines of China’s annual parliament session.

He said high-level talks between Beijing and Washington remain possible but require both sides to create the conditions necessary to manage their differences.

Wang also addressed the escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, calling for an immediate halt to military operations.

“Force is not a solution to crises,” he said, adding that the conflict “should never have happened.”

He warned that military power should not become the basis of international relations and said the world must not return to the “law of the jungle.”

The region has seen a sharp escalation since Feb. 28, with the United States and Israel carrying out strikes against Iran. Tehran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and other countries in the region.

Damascus, March 8 (SANA) As the world marks International Women’s Day, Syrian women continue to play a central role in the country’s social stability and reconstruction efforts, contributing to family life, community resilience and economic recovery across the country.

Amid the profound social and economic challenges Syria has experienced in recent years, women have expanded their presence across many areas of public life while maintaining their traditional role within the family. Their participation in education, healthcare, agriculture and local initiatives has made them an important driver of development and community cohesion.

In homes, community centers and healthcare institutions, women actively contribute to social and medical services, particularly in supporting mothers and children. From major cities to remote rural areas, their efforts help strengthen essential services and support the resilience of local communities.

Balancing family and professional responsibilities

Many Syrian women today carry a dual responsibility, balancing family duties with professional work. As mothers, teachers and workers, they play a significant role in preserving family unity and helping shape future generations.

This ability to combine the demands of home and work has made women a key source of social stability within Syrian society.

Active role in agriculture and industry

In rural areas, women contribute significantly to the agricultural sector, participating in food production, processing and marketing. Their work generates income that supports household livelihoods and strengthens local economies.

Women are also present in workshops and factories, particularly in the textile, handicraft and agro-industrial sectors, where they contribute to economic activity and the self-reliance of many families.

Growing leadership and participation

In recent years, Syrian women have increasingly taken on roles in public administration, education, the judiciary, the media and civil society organizations. Their presence in decision-making positions reflects broader recognition of their professional abilities and their contribution to public life.

A vital role in Syria’s future

International Women’s Day highlights the role Syrian women continue to play in rebuilding communities and supporting national development.

Their participation alongside men remains an essential element in efforts to strengthen society and advance economic recovery.

Mothers, workers, professionals and leaders, Syrian women today represent an important force shaping both the present and the future of the country.

Beirut, March 8 (SANA) Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon killed at least 37 people and injured others over the past 24 hours, Lebanese state media said Sunday.

Lebanon’s National News Agency reported that an Israeli strike hit a three-story building in the town of Sireh al-Gharbiyeh in the Nabatieh district, killing 19 people and leveling the structure. Another strike hit a house in the town of Aytit in the Tyre district, killing three people and wounding several others.

The Lebanese Health Ministry said earlier Sunday that 15 people were killed and 15 injured in separate Israeli strikes on locations in Beirut and other parts of southern Lebanon.

The escalation follows missile attacks by the Hezbollah militia on Israeli positions last Monday, after which Israel launched a wave of airstrikes targeting the southern suburbs of Beirut and large areas of southern and eastern Lebanon’s Bekaa region, causing hundreds of casualties.

N.J

Damascus, March 8 (SANA) Syria’s Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor on Sunday launched its national strategic plan for 2026–2028 during an event at the Damascus Opera House, attended by several ministers and representatives of international and local organizations.

The plan aims to ensure fair access to social services, promote decent work opportunities for those able to work, empower women and protect them against violence, and support the social and economic integration of returnees, the ministry said. It also includes efforts to advance the digital transformation of the social affairs and labor sector.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Kabawat said the strategy represents a new direction for social work in Syria, focusing on establishing social safety nets and a comprehensive protection system.

Kabawat added that the plan seeks to strengthen protection mechanisms to reach the most vulnerable groups, shift toward empowerment-based support, and build partnerships with the private sector and international partners.