SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

A unit of Israeli forces carried out an incursion on Monday near the town of Saida al-Hanout, located in the western part of the southern Quneitra countryside.

According to a SANA reporter, five Israeli military vehicles advanced toward the town before withdrawing shortly afterward.

Israeli forces continue to carry out near-daily incursions into Syrian territory, in violation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, international law, and relevant United Nations resolutions. Syria regularly condemns these actions and calls on the international community to take a firm stance to halt them

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced that it has received a second group of Israeli prisoners from the Gaza Strip, totaling 13 individuals, as part of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement.

Earlier on Monday, the Committee received the first group of seven Israeli prisoners from Gaza and transferred them to the Israeli authorities.

In a statement, Hamas confirmed that it had handed over a total of 20 living Israeli prisoners to the Red Cross in Gaza, reaffirming its commitment to the terms and timeline of the agreement, provided the Israeli side fulfills its obligations.

According to the first phase of the agreement, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on October 9 as part of his plan to end the war in Gaza, all living Israeli prisoners held in the Gaza Strip-numbering 20-will be released.

Additionally, 28 bodies are to be returned gradually, depending on the progress of recovery efforts from beneath the rubble in Gaza.

In exchange, the Israeli authorities will release 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences, along with 1,718 detainees from Gaza who were arrested following the outbreak of the war on October 7, 2023. The entire exchange is to be completed within a 72-hour window beginning on Friday, as stipulated in the agreement.

Mohammad Al-Omar, Director of the Consular Department at the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, affirmed that the ministry is steadily working to develop and expand consular services in several Syrian provinces.

In a statement to SANA, Al-Omar noted that the ministry has begun using electronic sticker verification service in Aleppo province as part of the state’s broader digital transformation initiative and efforts to enhance public services.

He added that the ministry is preparing to open new consular offices in Idlib and Deir Ezzor, representing a significant milestone as the first such offices in these provinces.

The Consular Department has also recently launched a Quality Department to monitor and improve the performance of diplomatic missions and consular offices nationwide, Al-Omar added.

He confirmed that these initiatives represent a significant transformation in Syrian consular services, combining technological modernization, human resource development, and geographic expansion to better serve Syrian citizens everywhere.

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed confidence that the ceasefire in Gaza “will hold,” describing his trip to the Middle East as “very special.”

“The war is over, okay?” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, en route to the region, according to Agence France-Presse (AFP). He added that the ceasefire agreement would “definitely hold.”

Trump said he had received verbal “assurances” from both Israel and Hamas, as well as other key regional actors, regarding the first phase of the agreement. He added that he did not believe anyone “wants to let him down.”

He also expressed a desire to visit Gaza, or at least “set foot on its soil” and pledged to establish a new peace council focused on the Strip, which he would lead. He said the council would be formed “very quickly.”

Trump announced last Thursday that Israel and Hamas had reached an agreement on the first phase of his plan for a ceasefire in Gaza and a prisoner exchange.

The giant cargo ship “NAVEGANTES”, operated by the global company CMA CGM, has docked at Lattakia Port, marking a new milestone in the port’s growing role as a major logistics hub on the eastern Mediterranean coast.

The General Authority of Land and Sea Ports stated on its Telegram channel that “NAVEGANTES” is one of the largest vessels ever to dock at Lattakia, measuring approximately 222 meters in length. “This confirms the readiness of Syrian ports to accommodate large vessels in accordance with the highest technical and logistical standards,” the statement added.

The ship is carrying a diverse shipment of goods and essential commodities intended to meet the needs of the local market and to support commercial and economic activity across the country.

Syria is exerting significant efforts to restore the role of its seaports as strategic hubs in maritime trade.

The ” Sweida Is Part of Us” fund raising initiative has collected some $14,633,000 during an event held on Sunday evening in al-Soura al-Kubra village in the countryside of Sweida Governorate.

The campaign, organized by a group of youths from various Syrian provinces, aimed to provide direct financial and in-kind support by collecting donations from all provinces, sending a message of national unity to emphasize that Sweida as an integral part of Syria

Sweida Governor Mustafa al-Bakour emphasized that the campaign embodies a national and humanitarian spirit, reinforcing trust between citizens and the state. He stressed that all contributions would be transparently distributed to those in need, calling for unity among all Syrians.

Sheikh Laith al-Balous from sweida, expressed that the campaign reflects the strong commitment of the Syrian people and their unwavering spirit in the face of challenges.

He said: “Sweida Governorate was and will remain an integral part of the Syrian Arab Republic,” praising the high national spirit of the people of the governorate and other Syrian governorates.

Prominent community figures highlighted the significance of unity among Sweida’s diverse religious groups, reaffirming the region’s rich history and commitment to the Syrian identity. Government officials, including the Minister of Information, Culture, and Health, stressed the importance of addressing societal divisions and fostering a cohesive national dialogue.

Israel and Hamas began the first stage of their prisoner exchange early Monday, carried out through the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), officials from both sides confirmed.

In a statement, the ICRC said it had launched a multi-phase operation to oversee the release and transfer of prisoners as part of the ceasefire agreement.

Seven Israelis have already been handed over to the Red Cross, with another 13 expected to be released at 10 a.m. local time. The first group is currently being transported to Israeli military custody, the committee said.

Red Cross buses were seen positioned outside Ofer Prison ahead of the scheduled release of Palestinian detainees.

The Palestinian Prisoners Club published a list of 1,718 Palestinians expected to be freed under the terms of the deal.

Syria has resumed participation in the Trade Negotiating Committee of the Trade Preferential System among the Member States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), marking its first appearance in the forum after a 14-year suspension.

At The meeting held in Ankara, the Syrian delegation led by Samer Shannat, thanked the OIC Secretariat for inviting Syria to rejoin the negotiations after its long absence. He emphasized the need of revitalizing trade cooperation among member states, exchanging expertise, and strengthening economic partnerships.

 Shannat noted that such efforts are crucial for supporting sustainable development and advancing economic integration across the OIC region.

The Syrian Arab Republic has extended its heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the State of Qatar, its leadership and people, following the tragic death of several Qatari diplomats in a car crash in Egypt’s Sharm El-Sheikh. Syria affirmed its full solidarity with Qatar in this painful time.

“With deep sorrow and grief, we received news of the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of several Qatari diplomats on the road to Egypt’s Sharm El-Sheikh. The Syrian Arab Republic, in expressing its sympathy to the leadership and people of Qatar in this grievous loss, extends its sincerest condolences and profound sympathy to the families of the victims.” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said in a statement Sunday.

The ministry added: “Syria reaffirms its support for Qatar in this difficult time. We pray to Almighty God to bestow His mercy upon the deceased, grant them eternal peace, bless the injured with a swift recovery, and their families with patience and solace.”

Anas Haj Zeidan, Director General of Antiquities and Museums, met Sunday with a delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), headed by Tosaka Sota, Director of JICA’s Tokyo headquarters, to explore ways of boosting cooperation in urban planning for Syria’s historic cities, particularly Old Damascus and Old Aleppo.

The discussions focused on mechanisms for implementing integrated urban planning projects that preserve the unique historical and cultural fabric of both cities, while also meeting the demands of sustainable development amid the challenges posed by urban and environmental changes.

The JICA delegation expressed the agency’s readiness to offer its technical and professional expertise in urban planning and heritage conservation, drawing on Japan’s leading experience in the field.

These talks are expected to open new avenues for fruitful collaboration between the two sides, contributing to the protection of Syria’s historic cities and restoring their cultural splendor.

The Internal Security Department in Daraa Province carried out a security operation, Sunday, in one of the villages of the eastern countryside, targeting an abandoned house following credible intelligence about the presence of unidentified armed individuals inside.

A security source told SANA that the operation resulted in the seizure of various light and medium weapons, in addition to narcotic substances that had been carefully concealed within the house.

The source stressed that the operation is part of ongoing efforts by security authorities to reinforce stability and safety in the province and prevent any actions that may endanger citizens.

A nationwide grassroots campaign titled “Sweida Is Part of Us – Syria Is Your Support and Mine” was launched today in the village of Al-Sura Al-Kabira, aiming to promote national unity and social solidarity through community-driven fundraising.

Led by youth from across Syria’s provinces, the initiative seeks to provide direct financial and material support to Sweida, while reinforcing the message that the region is an inseparable part of Syria’s national fabric.

Organizers emphasized the campaign’s role in fostering trust, empowering young Syrians, and showcasing their leadership in humanitarian and civic efforts.

The campaign targets key sectors including education, healthcare, and infrastructure—supporting schools, hospitals, and essential services such as water, electricity, and roads.

It also reflects a broader movement across Syria to strengthen civil society and build a more resilient future through collective action and shared responsibility.

This initiative is part of a broader wave of community-driven efforts across Syrian provinces and cities, aimed at strengthening civic engagement, promoting social partnerships, and fostering a culture of giving to help build a better future for Syrians in the post-liberation phase.

With the participation of a Syrian Health Ministry delegation, the World Health Summit (WHS) launched in the German capital, Berlin, on Sunday, recognized as one of the leading global forums in the healthcare sector, the summit brings together ministers, experts, and organizations from around the world.

As part of the event, the Syrian Ministry of Health, in cooperation with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), organized a session titled “Recovery of Syria’s Health System… Pathways to Resilience.”

The discussion highlighted ongoing efforts to rebuild Syria’s healthcare infrastructure and strengthen its capacity to respond to future challenges.

Dr. Alaa Abdeen, head of the Syrian delegation and Director of the Minister’s Office, noted that this marks Syria’s first participation in the WHS.

He emphasized the importance of presenting the ministry’s strategic vision and reform plans, and of engaging with international partners to shape a resilient and responsive health system.

The Syrian delegation aims to showcase national initiatives to improve medical services and facilities, while fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange with global stakeholders.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized on Sunday that Turkey and Syria share intertwined security interests and pledged to continue providing all forms of support to ensure Syria’s full security and territorial integrity.

Following a meeting with senior Syrian officials in Ankara, Fidan said in a statement on X that Turkey has maintained intensive contacts with Syria across all fields and levels since the liberation of the Syrian people. “We agree with Syria on enhancing close coordination and cooperation to protect and strengthen its gains,” he added.

The minister noted that the Ankara meeting, attended by the foreign ministers, defense ministers, and intelligence chiefs of both countries, provided an “opportunity to discuss the strategic aspects of our relationship from all perspectives.”

“We discussed joint steps that can be taken to ensure Syria’s complete security while preserving its territorial integrity, and conducted a comprehensive and detailed assessment of our operational plans,” Fidan stressed.

Highlighting the Syrian administration’s determination and resolve to overcome the difficult challenges it faces, Fidan reaffirmed that Turkey “does not view Syria’s security as separate from its own security, and we will continue to provide all forms of support to our Syrian brothers on this path.”

Syrian Minister of Defense, Major General Murhaf Abu Qasra expressed his sincere gratitude to Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler for the substantial efforts in supporting the development of the Syrian Arab Army.

In a statement on X following talks in Ankara, Abu Qasra also extended thanks to Turkish Intelligence Chief İbrahim Kalın and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan for their active participation and dedication to fostering cooperation and mutual understanding between the two countries.

The defense minister described the meeting as a significant milestone in enhancing coordination and collaboration between the Syrian and Turkish armed forces. He emphasized that the strengthened ties serve the interests of both nations and peoples and contribute to regional security and stability.

Interior Minister Anas Khattab held talks with a delegation from the Turkish Embassy in Damascus to discuss cooperation in security and police affairs.

According to a statement published on the Interior Ministry’s Telegram channel, Minister Khattab met with Chargé d’Affaires Burhan Koroglu and Colonel Alaa Seydou, Director of the Planning and Organization Department.

The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation police and security domains, experience exchange, and joint training initiatives aimed at strengthening security and stability.

On the sidelines of the Third Qatar Real Estate Forum, Syrian Minister of Local Administration and Environment Mohammad Anjarani held talks on Sunday with Saudi Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing Majid Al-Hogail to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation in local governance and municipal services.

The two ministers explored opportunities for Syria to benefit from Saudi Arabia’s experience in modernizing local administration, particularly in areas such as legislative development, capacity building, and digital transformation.

The meeting underscored Syria’s interest in fostering regional collaboration and benefiting from best practices in public sector modernization.

Syrian Minister of Local Administration and Environment Mohammad Anjarani met on Sunday with Qatari Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah to discuss strengthening cooperation in the field of local governance.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Third Qatar Real Estate Forum in Doha and focused on sharing expertise and best practices in municipal management.

Both ministers emphasized the importance of enhancing bilateral collaboration in local administration, urban planning, and municipal services.

President Ahmad al-Sharaa held a meeting on Saturday evening with cabinet ministers, heads of public authorities, and governors to discuss the latest political, security, and military developments, according to a statement from the presidency.

The meeting also reviewed progress and achievements across various sectors, the statement added in a post published on the presidency’s Telegram channel.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza said on Sunday that the bodies of 124 Palestinians including 117 retrieved from under the rubble and 33 injured have been received in Gaza hospitals over the past 24 hours.

According to the ministry daily report “a number of victims remain under the rubble and on the roads”, where ambulance and civil defense crews are unable to reach them so far.

Since the start of the war on October 2023, more than 67,806 Palestinians have been killed, and approximately 170.066 others have been injured, according to the Ministry.