SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

Damascus, Dec.20 (SANA ) Syrian artist, Wasfi Al-Ma‘asarani, returned to Damascus and its audience in the “Victory” concert, organized by Ministry of Culture in cooperation with the Artists’ Syndicate and the Syrian American Council, at Dummar Cultural Complex theater on Friday,  after his songs had toured the world in support of the revolutionary Syrian people.

The concert featured a selection of al-Ma‘asarani’s national anthems that accompanied the course of the Syrian revolution, especially those he performed alongside the late Abdul Baset al-Sarout. The audience joined in singing some of his most famous works, including “Ala Al-Hodlak,” “Janna Janna,” “Skaba,” and “Shid Al-Himma.” The evening concluded with the song “Mawtini,” which embodied feelings of pride and belonging.

Speaking to SANA, al-Ma‘asarani affirmed that art and music are tools for enhancing national awareness, noting that patriotic songs had lost their meaning during the era of the deposed regime when they were turned into a means of glorifying the tyrant, but today they express freedom and optimism.

Wasfi al-Ma‘asarani is a Syrian singer and composer, born in the city of Homs, and has been residing in the Czech Republic since 2000. He initially focused on Western music before turning to patriotic songs with the outbreak of the Syrian revolution; his first such work was “Daraa is Calling.”

Hama, Dec. 20 (SANA) The Gardenia female’s Choir presented Friday a musical evening at Salamiyah Cinema in eastern Hama countryside, featuring songs that have left a lasting mark in memory, drawn from children’s programs and animated series.

The Choir leader, Safana Bakleh, told SANA that the ensemble seeks to build bridges among Syrians through music, noting that these melodies form part of the collective childhood memory.

She explained that the choir has previously performed in Darayya in Damascus countryside, then in Afrin, and now in Salamiyah, with plans to continue in other locations.

Art activist, Asaad Eido stressed that the choir represents a unique artistic style in Syria, built mainly on female voices. He underlined its power to enchant audiences and spread joy, considering such cultural efforts as vital today as they foster unity around a shared artistic vision.

Marah Araour, a theater actress, emphasized that the choir’s performance was distinguished by its joyful simplicity, seeking to unite the audience in affection and harmony while showcasing emerging talents.

Damascus, Dec.20 (SANA) Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates affirmed Syria’s commitment to combating ISIS and ensuring that the organization has no safe havens on its territory, calling on the US and member states of the International Coalition to join in supporting Syria’s efforts against terrorism.

“The Syrian Arab Republic extends its heartfelt condolences to families of the victims among Syrian and American security personnel who were killed in the terrorist attacks that took place in Palmyra and northern Syria last week. This loss underscores the need to strengthen international cooperation in combating terrorism.” Foreign Ministry said in a post on X.  

The ministry added: “Syria reaffirms its steadfast commitment to fighting ISIS and ensuring that it has no safe havens in Syrian territory, and will continue to intensify military operations against the organization in all areas it threatens.”

“The Syrian Arab Republic also calls on the United States and member states of the International Coalition to join in supporting Syria’s efforts in combating terrorism, in a way that contributes to protecting civilians and restoring security and stability in the region.”

Last Saturday, an armed member of ISIS infiltrated a meeting site in the city of Palmyra, which included officials from the Badiyah security command along with a delegation from International Coalition forces, and opened fire on the joint Syrian–American forces.

The attack resulted in the killing of two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter, in addition to wounding other Americans and Syrian security personnel.

Following this cowardly terrorist attack, carried out by an ISIS member, the Syrian Ministry of Interior announced that its units carried out a decisive and high-level security operation in Palmyra last Sunday.

The operation was conducted in full coordination with the General Intelligence Directorate and International Coalition forces, based on precise intelligence information, and led to the arrest of five suspects, who were immediately placed under investigation.

ME

Damascus, Dec 20 (SANA) – The authorities in Damascus, the Syrian capital, confirmed Saturday the theft of the statue of Saint Paul, granted in 1999 by the Pope of the Vatican to the Church of the Monastery of Saint Paul, located in the Bab Kisan area of Old Damascus.

In a statement, the Damascus Press Department clarified the circumstances of the incident, following the spread of contradictory reports.

It noted that it carried out a field visit to the site of the theft, gathered testimonies from the church administration and witnesses, and coordinated with the police station of the capital’s Qassaa neighborhood to review the preliminary results of the investigation.

According to the available information, the stolen statue is made of solid copper and was gifted to the church on the occasion of the Pope’s historic visit to Damascus, which gives it high religious, cultural, and symbolic value.

Initial investigations indicate that the theft occurred around 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 18, and was carried out by several individuals using simple tools, without resorting to heavy machinery.

Authorities believe the main motive was the economic value of the copper, describing the perpetrators as individuals driven by profit, with no other objectives identified so far.

The relevant authorities assured that it continues to closely monitor the progress of the investigation, in coordination with the competent bodies, in order to fully clarify the incident and strengthen the protection of the city’s religious and heritage sites.

ME

Aleppo, Dec. 20 (SANA) The community campaign of “Aleppo, the Best of All,” raised more than $270 million on its second day, with broad official and popular participation, to support reconstruction projects and essential services in the city.

Ali Keda, Assistant Secretary-General of the Presidency for Cabinet Affairs, affirmed that the initiative represents a message of loyalty to a city that has endured with its people and history, embodying national belonging and responsibility toward Aleppo and Syria as a whole.

He praised the noble efforts and initiatives undertaken by the city’s residents and guests to strengthen solidarity among Syrians, stressing that the people of Aleppo deserve the best.

Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Marwan al-Halabi, for his part, emphasized that the true rebuilding of Aleppo lies first in its people, then in its stones ,noting that education is the shortest path to growth and prosperity.

For his part, Aleppo’s Mufti Ibrahim Shasho declared the start of the “zero hour” for rebuilding the city, affirming that Aleppo will remain a symbol of dawn, hope, and love, and that it always rises from the rubble.

The people of Aleppo expressed gratitude to President Ahmad al-Sharaa for his strong support of the city, stressing that the responsibility of reconstruction is a collective mission defined by hope and joint action.

The three-day campaign, aims to support the rehabilitation of infrastructure and fund reconstruction projects across key service and economic sectors.

Similar initiatives have been witnessed across several Syrian provinces this year, aimed at supporting reconstruction and improving living and service conditions in areas damaged by the deposed regime’s bombardment.

NA/ ME

Damascus, Dec. 19 (SANA) Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal al-Shaar affirmed that the repeal of the Caesar Act was not merely a legal step, but rather the removal of a heavy barrier that had shackled Syria’s economy and burdened the lives of Syrians for years. He noted that the decision opens long-awaited new horizons, granting Syria an exceptional privilege and restoring its natural place among the nations of the world.

Al-Shaar explained, in a post on his Facebook page Friday, that this stage represents a turning point requiring work, responsibility, and the ability to prove oneself, moving from a mindset of resilience to one of achievement, and from waiting for opportunities to creating them.

He stressed that the coming phase demands a genuine revolution in mentality and behavior, liberation from the legacy of isolation, closure, exploitation, and bullying, and the building of a normal state with a free people, confident in themselves, capable of competing and engaging with the world on equal footing and mutual respect.

The minister emphasized that this transformation requires a broad and organized national effort to rebuild trust with the international community. He highlighted the need to demonstrate that Syria is a reliable partner, a safe environment for investment, and capable of commitment, transparency, and sustainability.

Al-Shaar stressed that this effort cannot be borne by the government alone, but is a responsibility shared by every Syrian at home and abroad. He considered that every word, action, and initiative send a message to the world, and that adopting this new mindset and promoting a responsible image of Syria and its people lays the foundation for a new historic phase of genuine revival, restoring Syria’s standing, and building a strong economy worthy of the sacrifices of its people.

MHD

Doha, Dec. 19 (SANA) A delegation from Syria’s Central Authority for Control and Inspection, headed by Amer al-Ali, held bilateral meetings with Romanian and Swiss delegations to discuss mechanisms of cooperation and coordination in combating corruption and asset recovery.

The meetings took place on the sidelines of the 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, held in Doha, Qatar.

The discussions focused on ways to exchange expertise and review legal and technical frameworks, contributing to capacity building and strengthening joint efforts in line with international standards.

The 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (COSP11) is being held in Doha from 15 to 19 December, with broad participation from various countries. The conference serves as a key international platform to address corruption challenges, highlight pressing issues, and strengthen international cooperation by unifying efforts for a more effective global response to this threat.

MHD

Jeddah, Dec. 19 (SANA) The Muslim World League welcomed Friday the United States’ decision to repeal the “Caesar Act,” describing it as a pivotal step toward a more promising future for the Syrian people.

In a statement posted on the League’s official website, Secretary-General Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa said the historic move by U.S. President Donald Trump reflects Syria’s right to move forward on its new path.

Al-Issa added that he hoped the Syrian government’s efforts would succeed in meeting the aspirations of its people for stability and prosperity, and he praised Saudi Arabia’s support for Syria during this critical juncture.

On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed the Department of Defense budget law for 2026, which includes a provision fully repealing the Caesar Act, imposed on Syria since 2019, making the repeal effective.

Abdul

Manama , Dec. 19 (SANA) The Kingdom of Bahrain welcomed the U.S. administration’s decision to lift sanctions imposed on Syria under the “Caesar Act,” praising the efforts of U.S. President Donald Trump in this regard.

“The Kingdom of Bahrain congratulates Syria on the issuance of this important decision, which will support the Syrian government’s efforts to strengthen stability, recovery, reconstruction, and development,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement published by the Bahrain News Agency.

The Ministry reaffirmed Bahrain’s solidarity with Syria in its endeavours to preserve security and stability, safeguard sovereignty and the unity and integrity of Syrian territory, and fulfil the aspirations of the Syrian people for peace, growth, and prosperity.

MHD

Damascus, Dec. 19 (SANA) President Ahmad al-Sharaa extended congratulations to the Syrian people following the complete lifting of sanctions on Syria, expressing gratitude to the U.S. President, members of Congress, and the nations that supported the Syrian people.

He affirmed that the era of rebuilding Syria has begun, with the goal of elevating the country to the highest ranks.

Speaking on Friday from Mount Qasioun via his account on platform (X), President al-Sharaa said: “Great Syrian people, peace be upon you. From the slopes of Mount Qasioun, I extend my congratulations and gratitude for the lifting of sanctions on Syria. Today marks the first day of a Syria free of sanctions, thanks to God Almighty, and to your efforts and patience over fourteen years.”

“Heartfelt thanks to all who sacrificed and endured during the blessed Syrian revolution, to those who inhaled chemical weapons, to those who migrated and left their homeland, to those who drowned in the seas, and to the blood of martyrs that nourished this sacred land. All of this has led us to this great victory, crowned by the complete lifting of restrictions on Syria,” he added.

President al-Sharaa continued: “Special thanks to U.S. President Donald Trump for responding to the call of the Syrian people, and to the members of Congress for recognizing the sacrifices of the Syrian people and answering their call to lift sanctions on Syria.”

“Thanks also go to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. I also extend deep gratitude to all Arab, Islamic, and European nations that supported the Syrian people during the years of war and stood by them in the final year to lift sanctions,” President al-Sharaa added.

He concluded: “Today is your day, great Syrian people. The time of suffering has passed, and the era of rebuilding has begun, God willing. Hand in hand, we will build this nation until we raise it to the highest ranks, by the will of God Almighty.”

MHD

Damascus, Dec. 19 (SANA) The General Directorate of Antiquities and Museums announced on Friday the discovery of an archaeological tomb in the city of Manbij, northeast of Aleppo, dating back to the classical period. The discovery was made during emergency excavation work conducted by an archaeological mission at the site.

According to a statement published on the directorate’s official Facebook page, excavation work for a building on a private property in Manbij uncovered archaeological indicators, prompting the formation of an urgent excavation team from the Aleppo Directorate of Antiquities and Museums to assess the site.

The excavations uncovered a tomb consisting of a main chamber and three adjoining rooms with semi-circular arches—architectural features characteristic of the classical era. No artifacts of significant historical value were discovered inside the tomb.

The Directorate reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Syria’s cultural heritage and urged citizens to report any archaeological discoveries encountered during excavation or construction activities, thereby contributing to the protection of this invaluable heritage for future generations.

The Manbij region in eastern Aleppo is regarded as a natural open-air museum rich in ancient remains. Historically known as the “Sacred City” (Hierapolis), the area is home to several important archaeological sites, most notably Qalaat Najm, Umm al-Sarj site, and the ancient wall of Manbij, as well as Roman tombs, mosaic panels, and a wide range of archaeological finds.

Abdul

Damascus, Dec. 19 (SANA) The Syrian Ministry of Culture announced the arrest of the ringleader of an antiquities theft network involved in stealing artifacts from the Classics Hall of the National Museum in Damascus last month. The ministry confirmed that joint investigations with the Interior Ministry and the recovery of surveillance recordings led to uncovering the details of the operation and thwarting it.

The ministry explained, in a statement Friday, that its teams, in cooperation with the Interior Ministry, worked continuously since the incident, collecting evidence and pursuing the perpetrators until the efforts succeeded in record time.

It added that Interior Ministry experts and investigators, supported by Syrian national technological expertise and under direct ministerial supervision, managed to reactivate the surveillance system that the thieves believed was out of service. This allowed the extraction of precise recordings of the operation and the reactivation of cameras to monitor movements inside the museum before, during, and after the theft.

The ministry stated that these efforts led to the arrest of “T.H.,” the ringleader of the network, who confessed to his crime and provided information about his accomplices. It praised the security forces and all those who contributed to the mission, which required the highest levels of secrecy and precision.

It emphasized that Syria’s culture, along with its tangible and intangible heritage and ancient antiquities, constitutes national security. It declared that safeguarding and protecting them is a collective responsibility, and vowed not to tolerate any attempts to target them, as they represent Syria’s civilizational image,both government and people.

The National Museum in Damascus was subjected to a theft on November 10, targeting several ancient statues and rare artifacts. The Ministry of Culture, in cooperation with internal security forces, quickly pursued the perpetrators as part of its efforts to protect Syria’s national heritage, which forms a cornerstone of the country’s civilizational identity.

MHD

Doha , Dec. 19 (SANA)The Syrian delegation from the Central Authority for Control and Inspection, headed by Amer al-Ali, held bilateral meetings with the Saudi and Omani delegations on the sidelines of the 11th session of the Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention against Corruption, convened in Doha. The discussions focused on ways to enhance cooperation in combating corruption and asset recovery.

The talks addressed mechanisms for exchanging expertise and organizing joint meetings and workshops to develop institutional capacities, thereby strengthening integrity and transparency systems in line with international standards.

The 11th session of the Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention against Corruption (COSP11) is being held in Doha from 15 to 19 December, with broad participation from various countries. The conference serves as an important international platform to address the challenges of corruption, highlight its pressing issues, and promote international cooperation and unified efforts for a more effective global response to this threat.

MHD

Paris, Dec. 19 (SANA) Farid al-Madhhan, known as “Caesar,” congratulated the Syrian people on the lifting of the “Caesar Act,” stressing that this step paves the way for reconstruction and opens the doors to investment.

“A major obstacle to investment and reconstruction has been removed, opening the way to build a new state, free and just, politically, socially, and economically, after the Assad dictatorship that destroyed the country and oppressed and killed its people,” al-Madhhan posted on his Facebook page.

Al-Madhhan described the announcement of the repeal of the “Caesar Act” as a long-awaited joy, addressing the Syrian government by saying: “With the end of the Caesar Act… today is your day, our promising government.”

Al-Madhhan was formerly the head of the forensic evidence office in the Military Police in Damascus. He defected from the former regime’s forces and leaked tens of thousands of photos and documents documenting the regime’s crimes against detainees, while concealing his identity for years under the name “Caesar.” These images provoked international outrage, leading the United States to impose the Caesar Act to hold the regime accountable for its crimes.

MHD

Damascus, Dec. 19 (SANA) Damascus is experiencing a festive atmosphere as Christmas and New Year approach. Christian communities prepare to celebrate the religious occasion, while other residents join in the social festivities, marked by decorations, lights, and events, reflecting the spirit of joy and optimism shared by all Syrians.

These celebrations come after long years of oppression and hardship endured by the Syrian people under the former regime, which often restricted public festivities and weighed heavily on citizens.

During a tour by SANA in the Hamidiyah, Bzourieh, and Qaimarieh markets, lively activity was observed as people purchased decorations, gifts, and festive foods. Mrs.

Malaka Mosalli (“Um Marwan”) said she is preparing her home with simple decorations and a Christmas tree adorned with colourful lights, noting that these holidays strengthen family bonds and reinforce social ties.

Wael Wahbi said he was shopping with his family of four, buying clothes for his children, decorations, sweets, and food in preparation for hosting extended family.

Children Elias Farah and Layal Abboud expressed their joy at the holidays, which bring time for play and entertainment, staying up late, watching special programmes and fireworks, as well as receiving gifts and sweets. Even simple presents, they said, hold great sentimental value.

Ahmad al-Khatib explained that he shares in the Christmas spirit with his Christian neighbours, visiting them each year to join in decorating the tree and exchanging symbolic gifts. He stressed that such participation strengthens bonds of love and harmony.

Many residents view Christmas and New Year as a time of respite from daily pressures, striving to bring joy to children through decorations, games, and gifts. These holidays remain a symbol of optimism for a new year filled with hopes of stability and prosperity.

MHD

Ankara ,Dec. 19 (SANA) Turkey welcomed the U.S. decision to repeal the “Caesar Act,” stressing the importance of this step in promoting stability and reconstruction in Syria.

“We hope this step will further encourage international cooperation for Syria’s reconstruction and revival, thereby contributing to greater stability, security, and prosperity in the country.” Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oncu Keceli posted on US social media company X.

This came a day after US President Donald Trump signed the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, formally ending the sanctions imposed under the Caesar Act during the rule of the ousted Bashar al-Assad regime.

MHD

Homs,Dec. 19 (SANA) Al-Wahda secured the top match of the first round of the Premier League with a 2–0 victory over al-Karama, in a game played Friday at al-Sarout Stadium in Homs.

Al-Wahda’s goals were scored by Ali Beshmani in the 49th minute and Osama Omari shortly before the end of the second half.

Jableh defeated host al-Shoala 2–0, with goals from Gaith Mahrez and Mahmoud Al-Bahr, in a match held at Panorama Stadium in Daraa’s sports city. The game drew a remarkable crowd, marking the revival of sporting life in the city after years of absence.

Jableh’s head coach, Mohammad Shadeed, thanked the fans of Daraa for their warm reception, noting that the team had prior knowledge of some Al-Shoala players, which helped in managing the match and securing victory.

MHD

Doha, Dec. 19 (SANA) The State of Qatar welcomed the U.S. decision to lift sanctions imposed on Syria under the “Caesar Act,” describing it as an important step towards supporting stability and prosperity in the country.

In a statement posted on its account on X, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed hope that lifting the sanctions would open new horizons for cooperation and partnerships with various countries, pave the way for renewed investments, and facilitate the flow of international aid. Such measures, the ministry noted, would help accelerate Syria’s economic recovery and restore its natural position on the global economic map.

The ministry reaffirmed Qatar’s full support for Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, as well as the aspirations of the Syrian people for security, stability, and development.

MHD

Kuwait , Dec. 19 (SANA) The State of Kuwait welcomed the U.S. decision to repeal the “Caesar Act,” stressing that this step will contribute to supporting Syria’s economic recovery and reconstruction efforts.

Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed, in a statement on Friday, the country’s supportive stance towards Syria in its efforts to establish security and stability, while safeguarding its unity and sovereignty. The ministry emphasized that repealing the “Caesar Act” will bolster the Syrian government’s reconstruction and development efforts, and enhance its international cooperation and economic partnerships.

The Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry also highlighted the role of U.S. President Donald Trump in lifting sanctions on Syria.

MHD