SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

Damascus, Dec.21 (SANA) The historic halls of Khan As’ad Pasha in Damascus hosted an art exhibition titled “Sham” on Saturday, showcasing around 80 artworks in celebration of Liberation Day.

The exhibition, in its 13th edition, was jointly organized by Fayrouz Forum and the Directorate of Fine Arts at the Ministry of Culture as part of ongoing cooperation between the two institutions. For the first time, the exhibition brings together contributions from both established and emerging artists, ranging in age from 4 to 35. Wassim Abdel Hamid, director of fine arts at the Ministry of Culture, told SANA that he is pleased with this collaboration, which supports young artists and children.

Abdel Hamid also said the exhibition reflects the directorate’s commitment to supporting the arts sector. He noted that the ministry’s plans for next year focus on assisting graduates of colleges, institutes, and technical centers, as well as introducing new initiatives aimed at developing artistic activity.

Exhibition supervisor and director of Fayrouz Forum, artist Fayza al-Halabi, said Khan As’ad Pasha was chosen for its historical and symbolic significance to Damascus. She added that the exhibition’s title, “Sham,” was intended to express the sense of joy shared by Damascus and Syrians more broadly during the month of liberation.

Founded in 2009, Fayrouz Forum provides ongoing training courses in drawing for children and architecture students, along with a range of other artistic programs.

Aleppo, Dec. 21 (SANA) The community-led ‘Aleppo, the Best of All’ campaign raised $426 million on its final day, marking a significant achievement that reflects broad popular and official support for recovery and reconstruction efforts in the province.

Aleppo Governor Azzam al-Gharib said at the campaign’s closing ceremony that the wide participation sent a message of loyalty to the city, citing its history and resilience.

The three-day campaign, launched on Dec. 18, was organized as a community initiative with official participation. It aims to restore and improve the city’s infrastructure and public services across multiple sectors, while supporting service and development projects to enhance economic and social stability in Aleppo city and its surrounding areas. The campaign drew broad participation from the financial and commercial sectors, official institutions, and large segments of the local community.

In a video address to participants on the final day, President Ahmad al-Sharaa said Aleppo remains Syria’s primary economic hub and a key pillar of reconstruction and development, particularly following the lifting of sanctions. He highlighted the city’s longstanding contribution to economic and commercial activity nationwide and underscored the importance of continued development and charitable initiatives to combat poverty and promote sustainable growth.

The campaign is part of ongoing efforts to ensure essential services for residents. The funds are expected to help local authorities rehabilitate the city’s infrastructure damaged by the bombardment of the former regime.

Damascus, Dec. 21 (SANA) Syria’s General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport said it is close to completing the installation of an advanced air navigation system at Damascus International Airport, aimed at reducing disruptions caused by poor weather, particularly dense fog.

In a statement published on its Telegram channel, the authority said the new system includes an integrated navigation suite with an automatic landing system and modern radar. It is expected to become operational within a month and should significantly improve the airport’s ability to handle flights in low-visibility conditions.

The authority added that similar equipment is set to be installed at Aleppo International Airport.

Heavy fog in recent days has reduced visibility at Damascus airport to below internationally accepted operational limits, forcing the diversion or cancellation of several flights. The authority said such measures are standard international practice and stressed that passenger and aircraft safety remains its top priority.

The authority apologized to passengers for delays and inconvenience caused by weather conditions beyond its control, saying coordination with airlines is ongoing to minimize disruption and safeguard passenger rights until conditions improve and the new systems come online.

Earlier this week, the authority announced the diversion and cancellation of multiple flights to and from Damascus and Aleppo airports due to dense fog and low visibility.

Damascus, Dec. 20 (SANA)Defense Minister Major General Murhaf Abu Qasra met with a delegation of dignitaries and notables from the city of Hama, in the presence of several senior officers, to explore ways of strengthening coordination and integration between the military institution and other governmental and civil bodies, in a manner that serves the national interest and supports various shared domains.

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Hama,Dec. 20 (SANA)The Anti-Narcotics Directorate thwarted an attempt to smuggle a large quantity of Captagon pills hidden inside the Pullman garage in Hama, prepared for shipment abroad toward Saudi Arabia.

The seized quantity amounted to around 26,000 pills, concealed inside a metal bed and camouflaged within a wooden frame in a professional manner, the Ministry of Interior stated in a statement on Saturday.

The ministry noted that foiling the smuggling attempt highlights the readiness and efficiency of the concerned security authorities.

The ministry added that the relevant authorities took the necessary legal measures, confiscated the seized items, and continue investigations to uncover all those involved and bring them before the competent judiciary.

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Washington,Dec. 20 (SANA) Qatar and the United States stressed the need to support efforts aimed at achieving stability in Syria and boosting its economy, in addition to continuing cooperation in combating terrorism.

This came in a joint statement following the seventh strategic dialogue between the two countries, held in Washington, D.C., with the participation of senior officials from both sides, according to the Qatar News Agency (QNA).

According to the statement, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed that cooperation between Doha and Washington constitutes a fundamental pillar in supporting peace in the Middle East, including Syria, through strengthening security and addressing regional challenges.

The dialogue addressed key regional and international issues, including Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, while affirming that the strategic partnership between the two countries serves as a strong force for stability and confronting terrorist threats.

The U.S. side praised Qatar’s leading role in global counterterrorism efforts and its commitment to international standards on combating terrorist financing and money laundering.

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Damascus, Dec. 20 (SANA) President Ahmad al-Sharaa said that Aleppo has always held a great and central place in Syria, describing it as the key and gateway to the entire country and the main economic gateway through which Syria will rise again.

In a video address to participants in the “Aleppo the best of all” campaign, President al-Sharaa said that following the lifting of sanctions on Syria and the country’s renewed openness, Aleppo will assume the leading regional position, not only at the local level. He stressed that the city will serve as the primary gateway for economic and commercial activity across Syria.

The President emphasized the importance of eradicating poverty in Aleppo as a first step, before expanding efforts to other provinces in order to lift poverty nationwide.

President al-Sharaa noted that Syria has transitioned from being governed by individuals to being led by its people, underscoring the vital economic, cultural, and social role citizens play across the country.

The President also called for sustained attention to Aleppo’s reconstruction and development, urging that charitable and development initiatives continue. Al-Sharaa highlighted Aleppo’s contributions to Syria’s blessed revolution, stressing that his remarks referred to both the city and its surrounding countryside.

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Rural Damascus, Dec. 20 (SANA) Brigadier General Ahmad al-Dalati, Commander of Internal Security in Rural Damascus Province discolsed Saturday that specialized security units, in cooperation with the Internal Security Command in Daraa Province, carried out a high-profile security operation in the Qudsaya area.

The operation resulted in the arrest of individuals involved in smuggling weapons on behalf of outlawed groups in Sweida Province and areas controlled by the so-called QSD militias, as well as cells linked to the terrorist ISIS organization.

Al-Dallati said the operation was launched following precise and reliable intelligence about suspicious activity at a farm in the area. Security forces swiftly moved to the location, imposed a tight cordon, and carried out a raid.

During the operation, security units seized FPV-type drones with all their accessories, approximately 1.5 tons of TNT explosives, and anti-personnel explosive devices weighing two kilograms each, which had been prepared for use in suicide drones.

All seized items were confiscated, and the suspects were referred to the competent authorities to complete investigations ahead of their transfer to the judiciary to take the necessary legal measures, al-Dallati added.

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Hama, Dec. 20 (SANA) Two people were killed and three others were wounded on Saturday when unidentified gunmen opened fire in the town of al-Sabboura, in eastern Hama province, central Syria.

The shooting occurred on Market Street in the town early in the day, the Interior Ministry said in a statement, adding that security forces quickly secured the area and launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the attack and identify those responsible and bring them to justice.

The ministry said it was committed to maintaining public security and would pursue those involved in the incident.

Ankara, Dec 20 (SANA) Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler underscored the strategic importance of stability and security in Syria for Turkey’s national security, highlighting the growing coordination between Ankara and Damascus.

Speaking to media representatives in Ankara on Saturday, Guler said there is “close communication, strong coordination, and constructive cooperation” between the two countries with Syria is moving toward reconstruction, peace, and reintegration into the international community.

Addressing the March 10, 2025 agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Guler said that integrating SDF units into the Syrian army should follow a clear roadmap and a realistic timetable.

The minister also criticized Israel’s approach in Syria, accusing it of fueling tensions against Damascus and warning that such actions risk destabilizing the region’s fragile balance. He emphasized that Turkey’s priority remains safeguarding stability and combating terrorism within the framework of international law.

On Friday, the Turkish Defense Ministry reiterated that Syria’s security and stability are essential pillars for regional peace, warning that Israeli strikes and expansionist policies pose a threat to the wider Middle East.

Damascus, Dec 20 (SANA) Handmade and woolen products, wooden artifacts, icons, and various Christmas decorations adorned the ambiance of the Christmas bazaar held at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Dormition in Damascus.

Organized by the Cathedral’s fellowship, the bazaar brought together fifty women presenting their own creations, offering families easy access to seasonal essentials. According to organizer Mary Al‑Ahmar, the annual event is designed to encourage women to showcase their handicrafts and provide them with a platform to sell their products.

Participants also highlighted the bazaar’s social dimension. Dunia Ayoub presented items made by members of the “Faith and Light” association for people with disabilities, aiming to demonstrate their abilities and open a market for their work. Other contributors offered festive sweets, handmade ceramics shaped into Christmas motifs, and natural beauty products, emphasizing the charitable spirit and affordable prices of the event.

Beyond commerce, the bazaar reflects the resilience and solidarity of Syrian society, turning holiday markets into symbols of community cooperation and hope.
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Doha, Dec 20 (SANA) The head of Syria’s Central Authority for Control and Inspection(CACI), Amer al-Ali, affirmed that combating corruption is a strategic and irreversible choice, and a fundamental basis for rebuilding the state on the principles of good governance and the rule of law in Syria.

In a speech delivered at the 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (COSP), held in Doha, al-Ali stated that Syria’s participation in this conference, as an observer member, comes at a pivotal stage in its institutional history. He emphasized that it reflects a clear and serious orientation of the new Syrian government toward establishing an integrated system of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Al-Ali explained that the looted and smuggled funds outside Syria are not merely numbers in bank accounts, but represent services, hospitals, and homes. He stressed that recovering them is a sovereign right, calling on friendly states and governments to support Syria’s efforts to reclaim these funds in accordance with international legal procedures and frameworks.

He concluded his speech by reaffirming Syria’s commitment to partnership with countries and international organizations, noting that Syria is currently working to complete the ratification of the United Nations Convention against Corruption.

The Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (COSP) is the largest international gathering dedicated to combating corruption and economic crimes, and serves as the main decision-making body of the Convention—the only legally binding global instrument against corruption.

Amman, Dec 20 (SANA) – The Jordanian Armed Forces announced Saturday that the Royal Jordanian Air Force joined coalition operations in carrying out airstrikes against ISIS positions in southern Syria.

In an official statement, the military confirmed that the strikes were conducted in coordination with the United States as part of the international coalition’s ongoing campaign against the terrorist organization.

The operation aims to prevent extremist groups from exploiting southern Syria as a staging ground to threaten regional security, particularly amid reports that ISIS has been attempting to reestablish its presence and rebuild its capabilities in the area.

The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that American forces also conducted extensive strikes at dawn against dozens of ISIS targets in Syria, in response to the recent attack near Palmyra that targeted joint Syrian–U.S. forces.

Meanwhile, Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its commitment to combating ISIS and called on the United States and coalition members to support its efforts to eliminate terrorism

Tripoli, Dec 20 (SANA) Syrian Health Minister Musab Al-Ali paid a field visit on Saturday to several medical institutions in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, on the sidelines of the 63rd session of the Council of Arab Health Ministers.

The tour included the Al-Dahmani Polyclinic, the National Oncology Hospital, and the Emergency Medicine and Support Center, where the minister reviewed medical services, ambulance readiness, and response mechanisms.

Al-Ali also discussed with Libyan officials the functioning of the health system, human resources management, and medical supply chains, as part of an exchange of expertise and exposure to Libya’s healthcare model.

The visit coincided with the 63rd Arab Health Ministers’ Council meetings, which opened Thursday in Tripoli with Syria’s participation, focusing on strengthening Arab cooperation in public health, emergency response, and the development of health systems.

Quneitra, Dec 20 (SANA) – Israeli forces carried out a new incursion on Saturday into several villages in the southern and central countryside of Quneitra.

SANA’s reporter in Quneitra said that an Israeli patrol consisting of seven military vehicles advanced from Tel Ahmar al-Gharbi, passing through the village of Kodna and reaching Ain Ziwan, where it set up a temporary checkpoint in the center of the village. The patrol blocked the road linking Ain Ziwan with Suweisa before withdrawing from the area.

The reporter added that another Israeli unit, made up of three Humvees and one Hilux vehicle, entered the village of Al-Ajraf in the central countryside. The force established a temporary checkpoint, stopping and searching passersby before pulling back. No arrests were reported.

Israel continues its incursions into the countryside of Quneitra and Daraa, in violation of the 1974 disengagement agreement, while Syria repeatedly calls for the implementation of United Nations resolutions and an end to the Israeli occupation of Syrian territory, urging the international community to assume its responsibilities in deterring such practices.

Amman, Dec 20 (SANA) The Arab Atomic Energy Agency (AAEA) on Saturday opened the 76th regular session of its Executive Council in Amman, with representatives from member states, including Syria, meeting to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

Syria’s delegation, led by Mudar al-Okla, Director General of the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission, described the session as a milestone for Arab scientific collaboration. He said discussions focused on expanding nuclear energy applications in medicine, agriculture, industry, and scientific research to improve services and build national capacities.

Al-Okla noted that participants agreed to organize joint visits and exchange expertise among Arab specialists, enabling direct access to successful national experiences and fostering practical cooperation programs. He added that Syria’s participation reflects its intention to re-engage in Arab scientific initiatives and restore its role as an active partner.

He also expressed Syria’s readiness to host future agency activities and provide the necessary facilities to ensure their success, stressing the importance of continued coordination and joint programs to advance peaceful nuclear applications as a tool for sustainable development in the region.

The session will continue until December 22.

Damascus, Dec 20 (SANA) Syria’s Bar Association said on Saturday that the U.S. decision to repeal the sanctions law known as the “Caesar Act” represents a legal and diplomatic shift that could pave the way for a new phase in international relations.

In a statement published by the state news agency SANA, the association noted that the move may contribute to restoring social stability and security in Syria, emphasizing that citizens have an inherent right to rebuild their country and live in dignity and peace.

The statement added that the next stage will require strengthening national solidarity and intensifying collective efforts to launch a comprehensive reconstruction process aimed at achieving sustainable development.

On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed into law the 2026 Defense Department budget, which included a provision fully repealing the “Caesar Act,” imposed on Syria in 2019.

Quneitra, Dec.20 (SANA) Israeli forces carried out on Saturday an incursion into several villages in southern Quneitra countryside.

SANA reporter in Quneitra said that an Israeli patrol consisting of seven military vehicles advanced from Tel Ahmar Gharbi, took the road through the village of Kudna, and reached the village of Ayn Ziwan, where it set up a temporary checkpoint in the middle of the village and cut off the road connecting Ayn Ziwan and the village of Suwaisa, before leaving the area.

Israel continues its aggressive actions, violating the 1974 Disengagement Agreement by advancing into the countryside of Quneitra and Daraa, while also attacking civilians.

Syria has repeatedly called for the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from its territory and urged the international community to fulfill its responsibilities in ending these illegal practices.

Occupied Jerusalem, Dec. 20 (SANA) Israeli forces carried out a series of raids across the West Bank Saturday, detaining several Palestinians in different towns and villages.

According to the Palestinian News Agency WAFA, the troops stormed the eastern area of Nablus in the early hours, while a foot patrol entered the village of Madama, south of the city, arresting a number of residents.

In Hebron, Israeli forces launched a campaign of raids, arresting three Palestinians after searching several homes and ransacking their contents in Dura and Karmil town, south of the city. Additional raids targeted the villages of Tarqumiyah, Idna, Beit Kahil, and al-Dhahiriya, where homes were searched, residents were detained and mistreated.

In Ramallah, the forces raided several houses in the villages of Shibtin and Ni’lin, west of the city, arresting a young man from Ni’lin.