SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

Energy Minister, Mohammad al‑Bashir, affirmed on Thursday that “the Salvation Government” played a central role in the “Deterrence of Aggression” campaign, participating in the operations room during the liberation battles and overseeing the preparation of shelters, public services, and the health sector.

“Police units were mobilized to maintain security and regulate traffic, while government institutions entered Aleppo and Damascus from the very first day to ensure the continuity of services,” al-Bashir said.

In a special interview with Syrian Al‑Ikhbariya TV, al‑Bashir added that Syria has faced major economic challenges due to war and sanctions, escalated by the legacy of the deposed regime, including corruption, administrative inefficiency and low wages.

He noted that the government has sought to address those issues through raising salaries by 200%, strengthening the purchasing power of the Syrian pound, and improving the supply of fuel and essential foodstuffs.

Al‑Bashir added that the government relied on the efforts of volunteers and essential workers to safeguard and operate facilities, helping preserve civil peace and prevent disorder despite attempts by some groups to stir unrest.

Regarding the energy sector, al‑Bashir clarified that after merging the ministries of oil, electricity, and water resources, the ministry undertook rebuilding efforts, and power generation capacity rose from 1,100 to 2,300 megawatts, with the potential to reach 4,500 after major plant repairs, and daily electricity supply increased to 14–16 hours, with main projects aiming for 24 hours, alongside tenders to renew networks and install millions of smart meters for electricity and water.

He noted that contracts have been signed to build renewable energy plants with a capacity of 4,500 megawatts and gas projects scheduled to come online by 2030, covering national needs.

The minister emphasized that those plans will resolve 80% of the electricity crisis by 2026–2027 and ensure round‑the‑clock power by 2030.

Al‑Bashir also revealed strategic water projects to combat drought, initiatives to expand gas and oil production, and investments in vast reserves of phosphates and offshore gas, enabling new downstream industries and a refinery.

He stressed those projects mark a strategic step toward transforming Syria into a regional hub for energy and manufacturing.

President Ahmad al-Sharaa, in a phone call Thursday coinciding with a meeting between the Governor of Latakia and local community leaders, emphasized the centrality of national unity and strategic planning in Syria’s ongoing reconstruction and development efforts.

Speaking on the anniversary of the launch of Syria’s liberation campaign, President al-Sharaa described the event as a historic milestone widely welcomed by most Syrians, while acknowledging that some segments of society have faced challenges and others have embraced the necessity of safeguarding the country’s unity and security.

He noted that over the past year, Syria has made significant strides across multiple sectors, and stressed that public demands, while largely legitimate, occasionally include politically motivated elements. “The state remains fully prepared to listen and address all demands seriously,” he added.

President al-Sharaa highlighted the strategic importance of the Syrian coast, citing its role in international trade and regional economic integration. He affirmed that the region’s social and sectarian diversity strengthens national unity, dismissing proposals for federalism or separatism as based on narrow political perspectives.

“The Syrian geography is interconnected; no region can claim autonomous authority separate from the rest of the country,” he said, noting that economic and social integration demonstrates the futility of calls for division.

He further clarified that local governance structures already incorporate elements of decentralization under Law No. 107, allowing for adaptations while maintaining national cohesion. “Any weak component within our society exposes all to risks; our strength lies in mutual support,” he stressed.

Reflecting on Syria’s post-liberation achievements, President al-Sharaa emphasized that stability and recovery are gradual processes requiring time and strategic planning. He affirmed the government’s commitment to introducing a new legal and administrative framework over the next five years to establish robust state institutions.

He underscored that unity is non-negotiable, and praised broad domestic and international support for Syria, noting that all Syrians are partners in building the nation and sharing responsibility.

Citing the example of Idlib, the president recalled how Syria resisted separatist pressures despite challenging conditions, successfully delivering public services and fostering economic activity. “Today, Syria’s capacities and circumstances allow for a dignified and stable life. Narrow agendas serving individual interests do not reflect the reality of Syrians,” he said.

President al-Sharaa concluded by urging an end to decades of societal division, emphasizing the awareness, solidarity, and enduring patriotism of Syrians inside and outside the country as key to constructing a stronger, indivisible Syria resilient to all attempts at fragmentation.

The Syrian national badminton team delivered a standout performance at the West Asia Championship held in Iraq, securing an impressive 17 medals across multiple age categories.

Highlights included gold medals in the U15 women’s singles (Mayas Qabbani), U17 men’s doubles (Shadi Al‑Ansari and Mohammad Khaled Al‑Rifai), and U17 women’s doubles (Thanaa Al‑Zoubi and Dania Karzon).

The team also collected a series of silver and bronze medals in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events across the U15, U17, and U23 divisions.

The tournament featured strong competition from regional teams representing Jordan, Bahrain, Lebanon, Palestine, Oman, and Qatar, underscoring Syria’s rising profile in the sport.

Al-Batrani Garden in Lattakia province offers a natural refuge within the city’s old neighborhoods, surrounding the historic mosque built in 1277 AD. The site has become a spiritual and cultural gathering place for residents and visitors seeking calm and nature.

Plans for Development

Imam Hassan Abdullah Qassab articulated that the mosque was named after Muhammad Fares al-Batrani, a naval commander under Sultan al-Zahir Baybars, who requested burial at the site. He noted ongoing studies with the Directorate of Endowments to establish a women’s prayer hall and a condolence hall, along with plans to improve the garden’s care and services.

A Century of Heritage

Citizen Muammar Abu Zainab described the garden, nearly 120 years old, as one of the city’s “living monuments.” Once directly adjacent to the sea before the port was built, it has retained its appeal despite urban changes. Its old trees remain part of the city’s memory, and residents emphasize the need to preserve its heritage character.

Social Bonding and Memories

Visitor Mohsen Kanani, who has frequented the garden since childhood, recalled the same trees shading him today as they did more than fifty years ago. Families from the city and countryside gather weekly, with children playing safely and adults enjoying fresh air. The garden continues to attract large numbers thanks to its atmosphere of comfort and social connection.

Clean and Welcoming

According to visitors, the garden maintains good standards of cleanliness and organization, with staff cooperating to welcome guests and preserve order. Its mild climate and calm environment make it a favored destination throughout the year.

The Internal Security Directorate in Jableh carried out a precise operation that dismantled a criminal network involved in kidnapping, robbery and murder.

According to the Ministry of Interior, initial investigations revealed the gang’s involvement in crimes against six victims, including kidnapping, killing and robbery as well as seizing goods from citizens.

One of the killed victim’s body was handed over to his family, while part of the stolen property was returned to its owners. The detainees were referred to the judiciary for prosecution.

On November 16, Internal Security forces in Lattakia Province conducted another operation that led to the arrest of individuals implicated in serious violations against civilians.

Egypt renewed its firm position, calling for respect for the unity and sovereignty of Syrian territory. This came during Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty’s discussions on Thursday with European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Haja Habib, in Cairo.

Abdelatty stressed his country’s rejection of any interventions or movements that would undermine the stability of Syria.

The Egyptian Minister also appreciated the positive developments in relations with the European Union after the transition to a comprehensive strategic partnership, noting Egypt’s keenness to enhance cooperation in various fields, despite the burdens it bears as a result of hosting millions of refugees.

In a regional context, Abdelatty presented the latest developments in Gaza, stressing the continuation of Egyptian efforts to establish a ceasefire in accordance with the Sharm el-Sheikh Agreement, and to prepare for an international conference for early recovery and reconstruction of the Strip, while stressing the need for humanitarian aid to arrive without obstacles.

He also condemned the violations in El Fasher city in Sudan, highlighting Egypt’s role within the quadripartite mechanism to stop the conflict, preserve Sudan’s unity, and ensure the entry of humanitarian aid.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the situation in Lebanon following Abdelatty’s visit to Beirut, where he affirmed Egypt’s support for Lebanon’s security, stability, and unity.

In turn, Haja Habib praised the Egyptian efforts in support of peace and stability in the region, stressing the European Union’s keenness to continue strengthening the strategic partnership with Egypt.

At dawn on November 27, 2024, the Battle of Deterring Aggression began, marking the start of a historic offensive that would culminate in the fall of the criminal Assad regime after twelve days of intense fighting.

This victory marked the dawn of a new era that the Syrian people had long dreamed of since the launch of their revolution in March 2011. In pursuit of this vision, they offered nearly a million martyrs, killed in bombings or tortured in detention centers, and millions more were displaced or turned into refugees.

The battle erupted suddenly while the Assad regime intensified its airstrikes on the liberated north, in an international climate that seemed to support its rehabilitation. However, the preparation for this offensive had been in the works for years.

Five Years of Preparation

President Ahmad al-Sharaa, commander of the Liberation Battle, confirmed that the planning for the offensive had taken five years to execute. During this period, various factions were unified and integrated into a coordinated effort. Despite the regime’s knowledge of the preparations and its mobilization of resources, al-Sharaa proceeded with the battle, rejecting warnings of repeating the Gaza-like destruction in Idleb. His decision to move forward was guided by the motto, “A victory without vengeance.”

The Liberation of Aleppo

On November 28, the Military Operations Command announced the full liberation of Aleppo, the economic capital of Syria. This moment was pivotal. Aleppo’s liberation, just one day into the offensive, sent a powerful message: the Deterring Aggression forces would protect all civilians, regardless of their background, and ensure the safety and security of their homes and livelihoods.

Rapid Advances: Hama, Homs, and Damascus

The forces rapidly advanced, liberating Hama by the evening of December 5. They continued southward, fully liberating Homs by December 8. That evening, the capital, Damascus, was secured. Having lost control of the country, the regime fled, with Bashar al-Assad and his senior leaders taking refuge in Moscow. Syrians across the nation flooded the streets, celebrating their newfound freedom and marking the beginning of a new chapter in their history.

International Recognition and Support

The fall of the Assad regime was met with widespread international recognition. Arab countries, the European Union, the United States, and the broader international community congratulated the Syrian people on their victory. Diplomatic delegations began arriving in Damascus, signaling the end of Syria’s diplomatic isolation.

A New Era: Rebuilding Syria

With the Assad regime’s 54-year rule brought to an end, Syria entered a new phase, one focused on state-building, restoring institutions, and ensuring stability. The leadership, from the very first moments of liberation, began laying the groundwork for a national army, restructuring public institutions, and fostering social cohesion to heal the divisions left behind by the oppressive regime.

The Syrians understood that while the battle for liberation had been won, the battle for reconstruction and the creation of a new, free Syria was just beginning.

Head of Syria’s Investment Authority, Talal Al-Hilali, met with a delegation from the UAE’s BEEAH Group on Thursday to explore collaboration in waste management and recycling. The discussions, held in Damascus, focused on sectors for cooperation, potential challenges, and strategies for success.

Al-Hilali emphasized the Authority’s ongoing efforts to attract leading companies, particularly in sectors that enhance quality of life. He also expressed interest in partnering with BEEAH, a leader in sustainability and waste-to-energy solutions.

Mohammad Banihammad, Director of Business Development at BEEAH, highlighted the group’s eagerness to invest in Syria, describing it as an “honor” to contribute to the country’s recovery. He also pointed out that Syria’s new investment climate, supported by favorable policies and incentives, offers significant opportunities for expansion.

BEEAH is a regional leader in sustainability, with operations in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. The group views Syria as a strategic market for sharing best practices in waste management, energy, and other sectors.

Brigadier General Hassan Abdul Ghani of the Syrian Ministry of Defense marked the first anniversary of the “Deterrence of Aggression” battle on Sunday, reflecting on the significant victories and progress achieved by Syria over the past year. Despite ongoing challenges, he emphasized that the country has made notable strides on multiple fronts.

“Twelve months have passed since we successfully deterred the regime of injustice and terrorism, rescuing our people from the fires of death, relentless shelling, and suffering,” said Abdul Ghani. “The displaced have returned to their homes, and the darkness has been lifted.”

He described the battle as a pivotal moment in Syria’s modern history, reiterating the commitment of the Syrian Arab Army to protect the country and the people. “We will defend every inch of Syria’s territory, from east to west,” he pledged. “Wherever you are, know that our army is safeguarding the borders and protecting the homeland from any aggression.”

Abdul Ghani called on the Syrian people to unite behind their army and government in the effort to rebuild the country and restore its historical legacy as a land of civilization, prosperity, and knowledge.

He urged citizens to “celebrate this victory and remember those great days,” stressing that “the era of injustice has ended, and a new era of dignity, pride, and reconstruction has begun—an era that will be carried forward by future generations.”

The Syrian Bakery Establishment in Daraa has completed construction works for a new bakery in the town of Busr al-Harir, in Daraa countryside, with support from the World Food Program (WFP). The project is part of broader efforts to rebuild the region’s food infrastructure, including the installation of a modern production line.

Khalil Hassan, Deputy Director of Daraa Bakery Establishment, told SANA that the new bakery is being built on the site of a former carpet factory, which was 80% destroyed due to the actions of the previous regime.

Hassan added that the installation of the production line has already begun, with plans to have the bakery fully operational by the end of the year. He emphasized that the Bakery Establishment is utilizing all available resources to ensure a consistent supply of bread, meeting quality standards and taking necessary measures to maintain uninterrupted production at bakeries across the province.

Busr al-Harir, home to approximately 35,000 residents, has long struggled with limited food services. The town currently relies on a single private bakery to meet the needs of its population.

The Gaza Rights Center announced on Sunday that it has recorded 535 violations by Israeli forces of the October 10 ceasefire agreement, targeting Palestinians across the Gaza Strip, which has led to the deaths of 350 Palestinians.

The center explained in a statement carried by Palestinian media outlets that ongoing airstrikes, artillery shelling, incursions, attacks on civilians, restrictions on humanitarian access, and movement bans constitute systematic violations. These violations have killed 198 vulnerable individuals, including 130 children, 54 women, and 14 elderly people.

The center added that the number of injured has risen to 889, with children, women, and elderly individuals accounting for 60.6 percent of the casualties. The center stressed that Israeli forces have failed to comply with withdrawal agreements, deliberately destroying hundreds of homes and buildings, and exacerbating humanitarian conditions by blocking aid entry.

According to the statement, the Gaza Strip is experiencing critical shortages of fuel, medical supplies, and materials for infrastructure rehabilitation. The Rafah crossing remains closed, and hundreds of detainees and missing persons are still unaccounted for, amid reports of enforced disappearances and abuse in Israeli prisons.

The center warned of an impending humanitarian catastrophe and urged the international community to take urgent action to protect civilians, stop the violations, launch investigations, ensure accountability, enable real international monitoring of the ceasefire, open crossings, and guarantee the basic rights of Gaza’s population.

Syria’s Deputy Minister of Economy and Trade, Basil Abdul Hanan, visited Riyadh Cables Group on Wednesday to explore the company’s technologies and innovations in cable manufacturing.

During the visit, Abdul Hanan discussed with the company’s management ways to enable Syria to benefit from their expertise and technology to strengthen its cable manufacturing sector. The officials also focused on enhancing both public and private sector growth, promoting national industrial development, and attracting local and foreign investment.

Abdul Hanan’s visit occurred on the sidelines of Syria’s participation in the 21st General Conference of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Riyadh, where representatives from 173 countries gathered to discuss global industrial development.

Syrian and Russian officials discussed on Wednesday opportunities for joint agricultural cooperation during the country’s reconstruction and recovery phase. The talks took place via video call between Syria’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture Basil al-Swaidan and Russian officials.

The officials addressed several key issues, including training Syrian agricultural professionals, increasing exports of Syrian produce to Russia, and importing fodder crops from Russia. Al-Swaidan also highlighted Syria’s need for agricultural equipment and the potential for partnerships to secure it, while emphasizing collaboration on fertilizer plants and production line development.

Russian officials expressed readiness to support Syrian agriculture and strengthen bilateral cooperation, stressing the importance of follow-up meetings to achieve practical results.

Earlier, on October 16, Agriculture Minister Amjad Badr met with a delegation from the Syrian-Russian Joint Committee for Trade, Economic, and Technological Cooperation to further enhance agricultural ties and promote shared interests.

The Syrian Ministry of Economy and Industry, together with the Syrian-Turkish Joint Business Council (STIK), is participating in the international Halal Expo 2025 in Istanbul, which is attracting broad participation from countries across the region.

The Syrian delegation highlighted national products certified to halal standards and strengthened the presence of Syrian companies at one of the world’s largest trade shows for the food and halal industries.

The Syrian pavilion features companies in food production, packaging, and commercial services, as well as emerging entrepreneurial projects. STIK organized business-to-business (B2B) meetings between Syrian and Turkish companies to explore investment and export opportunities and assess market needs in both countries.

The Halal Expo, part of the 11th Global Halal Summit, serves as an international platform connecting hundreds of companies and institutions in the halal sector, offering a platform for product showcases and connections to regional and global supply chains.

Israeli forces carried out a new ground incursion into Umm al-Luqas village in Quneitra’s southern countryside on Wednesday.

SANA reporter in Quneitra said that an Israeli force of four vehicles entered the village, raided houses, and then withdrew.

Syria has condemned the repeated Israeli incursions as violation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement and UN resolutions and called on the international community to enforce compliance and ensure Israel withdraws fully and adheres to the agreement.

The Syrian men’s national basketball team is set to begin its 2027 Qatar World Cup qualifying campaign with a showdown against Jordan in Amman on Wednesday, with tip-off at 7:30 PM local time.

Coach Joseph Stiebing named a 12-man roster for the opener: Omar Idlibi, Mayar Al-Balbisi, George Nono, Kamel Abdullah, Tariq Al-Jabi, Andre Fares, Abdul Rahman Al-Kurdi, Bilal Atli, Omar Sheikh Ali, Hani Adribi, Stanley Davies, and Christian Maran.

Syria will face Jordan again on the 30th for the second leg, aiming to build momentum and get off to a strong start in the qualifiers.

A French diplomatic delegation visited the Aleppo Industrial City on Wednesday to meet with city officials and review the challenges facing the industrial sector, offering support to help revitalize the city’s factories.

Jean-Baptiste Faivre, chargé d’affaires at the French Embassy in Damascus, along with embassy counselors, was briefed on the city’s current situation, including production challenges and ongoing efforts to enhance working conditions and support local manufacturers.The delegation toured a factory, observing production operations on the floor.

The visit is part of ongoing Syrian efforts to strengthen communication with international partners and support initiatives aimed at revitalizing Aleppo’s industrial sector.

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance the presence of Syrian women in leadership positions, the Academic Women’s Empowerment Unit at Damascus University organized a lecture aimed at preparing young women for leadership roles as the country looks toward long-term recovery.
Titled “From University Seats to Leadership Seats: How Can a Student Make an Impact in the New Syria,” the event focused on supporting female students and empowering them to shift from being passive recipients of opportunities to becoming active, initiative-taking members of society.

Building Confidence and Leadership Skills

The lecture was delivered by Dr. Daawa al-Ahdeb from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates. She outlined strategies for turning ideas into practical initiatives and discussed the qualities young women need to navigate leadership roles in a rapidly changing environment.

Al-Ahdeb said empowering female students is essential to speeding Syria’s social recovery, describing universities as one of the few remaining platforms able to foster new female talent and encourage innovation.

University Officials See Women as Key to Social Rebuilding

Dr. Ahed Abu Younes, the university’s vice president for scientific affairs, said the institution is working to strengthen the role of women across its academic community. Developing women’s skills and confidence, she said, is critical for rebuilding a society that has experienced years of conflict and disruption.

Turning Opportunities Into Practical Experience

Ghalia Al-Habbal Al-Mujallad, head of the Women’s Empowerment Unit, said the program focuses on helping students turn educational opportunities into real leadership experience, whether they are trainees, staff, or faculty. She noted that the challenges facing Syrian women today make capacity-building programs “more necessary than ever.”

Students Call for More Training and Support

Female students attending the event said training programs have been crucial for helping them plan their careers and build the confidence needed to enter leadership roles. They noted that increased support for women in education and the workforce could open doors to broader professional opportunities.

The Women’s Empowerment Unit is part of FREE, an EU-funded project aimed at strengthening the role of academic women across Mediterranean universities. The initiative supports workshops and training designed to promote equal opportunity, leadership development, and sustainability in higher education.

Syrian Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Kabawat met with Ugo Gentilini, the World Bank’s Global Lead for Social Assistance, to discuss strengthening Syria’s social protection programs.

The meeting, held in the presence of Finance Minister Mohamed Yisr Barnieh, reviewed existing social protection initiatives and explored ways to improve them.

Discussions also focused on developing a strategic framework that links social protection with vocational training and employment programs, in order to provide effective solutions to poverty and expand job opportunities.