SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

Syria’s newly appointed permanent representative to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Mohammad Katoub, pledged full cooperation with the chemical-weapons watchdog during the 30th Conference of States Parties in The Hague.

Speaking before delegates, Katoub thanked the OPCW for its work and singled out Qatar for its support in efforts to eliminate chemical weapons in Syria. Drawing on his first-hand experience witnessing chemical attacks in Eastern Ghouta, he said Damascus is committed to active engagement with the organization.

Katoub emphasized that Syria seeks a “mutual and positive” cooperation with the OPCW, aiming to regain full membership rights and take its place as an active member of the international chemical-weapons community.

He detailed the steps taken by the OPCW in Syria since the fall of the deposed regime at the beginning of the year, including seven field deployments, inspections of 23 suspected sites, collection of more than 6,000 documents, interviews with at least nine witnesses, and the retrieval of over 30 samples.

Syrian teams are working closely with the OPCW Secretariat to facilitate verification, gain access to suspected sites, and resolve cases complicated by the collapse of the previous regime, he said.

Describing the cooperation as more than a procedural formality, Katoub said it represents “a major transformation” in Syria’s approach to chemical-weapons oversight. He added that Damascus is pushing to restore its rights and privileges within the OPCW without waiting for the next annual session.

The DBIO alliance, comprising 25 European and Palestinian non governmental organizations, said its investigation into financial relations between companies involved in Israel’s illegal settlement project in the occupied Palestinian territories and European financial institutions found ongoing cooperation with Israel by EU states and firms despite calls for boycott and pressure to halt such practices.

Francesca Albanese, United Nations Special Rapporteur on Palestine and contributor to the report, said the new DBIO findings reveal how the European financial sector, through major investments, funds companies that perpetuate the Israeli occupation, apartheid regime and genocide. She urged action to stop these investments and European support for the occupation.

In a post on X, Albanese noted that a new UN report concluded Israel’s war on Gaza has erased 69 years of humanitarian development by destroying health care, education, infrastructure and banks, describing it as “the worst economic collapse ever recorded… this is not a war, this is a genocide.”

In Brussels, a “European Citizens’ Initiative” was launched calling for suspension of the EU partnership agreement with Israel. A European Commission statement said organizers, including former European Parliament member Malin Björk, urged suspension of the agreement, noting that while the EU acknowledged Israel’s responsibility for civilian casualties, mass displacement and systematic destruction of medical facilities in Gaza, it has not imposed sanctions.

Organizers stressed that Israel obstructed humanitarian aid in a manner amounting to the use of starvation as a weapon of war, and failed to meet many of its obligations. They highlighted that the EU is Israel’s largest trading partner, with total goods trade reaching €42.6 billion in 2024, yet no sanctions were imposed despite human rights violations.

The Commission confirmed it has formally registered the initiative, with signature collection now underway. A final decision is expected within six months.

Since Oct. 7, 2023, Israel’s war on Gaza has killed 69,775 Palestinians and injured 170,965 others, causing massive destruction of homes, infrastructure and services.

Meanwhile, violations continue to escalate in the West Bank, where settlement expansion, arrests, raids, house demolitions and deprivation of livelihoods persist in contravention of international law and relevant UN resolutions

Maj. Gen. Abdelqader Tahhan, Syria’s Deputy Minister of Interior for Security Affairs, held a bilateral meeting with Maj. Gen. Ahmed Nasser Al-Raisi, President of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), on the sidelines of the 93rd INTERPOL General Assembly taking place in Marrakech.

The meeting covered cooperation in security and police fields, with attention to issues related to combating organized and transnational crime and addressing cybercrime. Discussions also included the use of INTERPOL platforms and tools, along with the development of training programs for Interior Ministry personnel aimed at supporting skills development and capacity building.

The 93rd INTERPOL General Assembly held from 24 to 27 November 2025, brings together delegations from member countries to review global crime trends, strengthen technical cooperation, and consider developments in international policing systems. Sessions in Marrakech include discussions on technological challenges, cross-border crime networks, and mechanisms to enhance the exchange of criminal information.

A joint Syrian–Jordanian training program for directors of government departments was held at the Institute of Public Administration in Amman as part of Syria’s Ministry of Administrative Development’s executive tracks to strengthen government leadership and support preparations for institutional transformation.

The program, titled “Empowering Department Directors,” focused on advanced leadership themes including innovation-driven leadership, future foresight, strategic planning, risk management, institutional excellence and communication skills. The ministry said these themes align with its project to modernize the human-resources system and enable directors to move from operational management toward leadership-based management that delivers measurable impact.

Participants carried out field visits to the Jordanian Civil Service Bureau and the National Center for Security and Crisis Management to review contemporary administrative approaches and consider their relevance to developing Syria’s administrative framework.

Launched on November 9 with a total of 90 training hours, the program is part of a wider series of initiatives aimed at preparing administrative leaders capable of guiding transformation projects within public institutions and applying updated methodologies in planning, administration and decision-making.

The training followed the October 20 visit of Syria’s Minister of Administrative Development, Mohammad Hassan Skaf, to Amman for discussions with Jordan’s Minister of State for Public-Sector Modernization, Badria al-Balbeisi. During the visit, both sides signed a memorandum of understanding covering cooperation in capacity building, institutional reform and human-resources development in the public sector.

Israeli troops carried out a new ground incursion in the northern countryside of Quneitra on Wednesday.

SANA reporter in Quneitra said that an Israeli force of three vehicles entered the area between the villages of al-Ajraf and Umm Batna, set up a checkpoint, and withdrew shortly afterward.

These incursions into Syrian territory violate the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, international law, and United Nations resolutions. Syria has consistently condemned the attacks and urged the international community to take firm action to halt them

The Syrian Interior Ministry is taking part in the 93rd session of the INTERPOL General Assembly in Marrakech, Morocco, which brings together police leaders and delegates from member states to address transnational organized crime and expand INTERPOL’s global policing capabilities.

The Syrian delegation, led by Major General Abdel-Qader Tahhan, Deputy Minister of Interior for Security Affairs, underscores Syria’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with INTERPOL and enhancing international coordination in combating organized and cross-border crime to support regional and global security.

The program included the unveiling of new advanced policing tools, including the AI-powered “Nexus” platform for improving information exchange between countries, and the “AVA” virtual assistant designed to process and analyze data rapidly to support officers in the field.

In addition to approving INTERPOL’s program of activities, strategic framework, and budget, this year’s General Assembly will address issues such as identifying and disrupting transnational organized crime networks, dismantling scam centers, advancing women’s roles in policing, and further expanding INTERPOL’s global policing capabilities.

The General Assembly, held from 24 to 27 November 2025, will also discuss general policy, the resources required for international cooperation, working methods, and finances.

Syria and Saudi Arabia are signaling growing interest in industrial and economic cooperation, with officials from both countries highlighting opportunities in technology transfer, industrial investment, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.

During a visit to the National Industrial Development Center (NIDC) affiliated with the Ministry of Industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Syrian Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Basel Abdel-Hanan, stated that expanding collaboration in industrial development could help modernize Syria’s production capabilities and open the door to new investment channels.

 He noted Saudi Arabia’s rapid industrial advances as a potential model for technology-sharing initiatives and joint projects.

Saudi officials, for their part, expressed readiness to back Syrian industrial efforts, saying enhanced coordination could deepen economic ties and support long-term integration.

Areas of potential cooperation include developing industrial infrastructure, exchanging technical expertise, and supporting programs aimed at small and medium-sized manufacturers.

The discussions come as Syria participates in the 21st General Conference of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), held in Riyadh with delegations from 173 member states.

Syria’s Ministry of Emergency Management and Disaster Response is participating in a regional workshop in Barcelona focused on improving wildfire preparedness and response across Mediterranean countries. The event is hosted by the European Union and the Union for the Mediterranean.

Speaking during a session on national best practices, Deputy Minister Ahmad Qazziz outlined Syria’s efforts to develop its first national early-warning system for forest protection. He said the system is expected to be introduced soon and is intended to strengthen rapid-response capabilities and reduce environmental and human losses.

Qazziz also discussed lessons learned from Syria’s wildfire response this year, pointing to operational challenges and difficult on-the-ground conditions. He underscored the need for stronger regional cooperation with neighboring countries to enhance joint response efforts and share expertise.

The two-day workshop, held on October 25–26 with participation from civil defense and emergency officials from several countries, aims to bolster international coordination in tackling natural disasters.

Wildfires have surged across the Mediterranean in recent years, driven largely by climate change. Syrian officials describe the new early-warning system as a strategic step toward modernizing the country’s disaster-response infrastructure and safeguarding natural resources.

DAMASCUS, SANA

The Syrian Ministry of Interior condemned the criminal attack that targeted a security checkpoint in western Sweida countryside, carried out by outlawed groups. The incident resulted in the martyrdom of one officer and injuries to two others while performing their duty.

In a statement published on its Telegram channel, the ministry said that its units responded to the source of fire, causing casualties among the attacking groups.

The ministry emphasized that such attacks aim solely to undermine security and disrupt the lives of civilians in Sweida Governorate.

The ministry extended its condolences to the family of the fallen officer and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

Earlier, a security source confirmed that one internal security officer was killed and two others were wounded in the attack by outlawed groups on a checkpoint in western Sweida countryside.

Amer Dhawa

DAMASCUS, SANA

Syrian Defense Minister, Major General Murhaf Abu Qasra, met Tuesday at with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Syria, Air Chief Marshal Mughis Afzal.

According to the Ministry of Defense’s Telegram channel, the two sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation in developing air capabilities and training programs for military personnel, aiming to broaden the scope of military collaboration between the two countries.

Amer Dhawa

Doha- SANA

Latifa al-Droubi, wife of President Ahmad al-Sharaa, met Tuesday in Doha with Qatar’s Minister of Education and Higher Education Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater, on the sidelines of the 12th World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE 12), held in Doha under the theme “Human Values at the Heart of Education Systems.”

The meeting took place as part of Mrs. al-Droubi’s participation in the summit’s activities, which gather international experts, policymakers, and educational leaders to discuss innovative approaches and best practices in the field of education.

Amer Dhawa

The Syrian Interior Ministry on Tuesday condemned what it described as a “criminal assault” targeting a security checkpoint in the western countryside of Sweida, an attack carried out by outlaw armed groups. The assault resulted in the martyrdom of one security officer and the injury of two others while they were on duty.

In a statement on Telegram, the Ministry said its units responded directly to the source of gunfire, leading to casualties among the attacking groups.

The Ministry stressed that such assaults are intended solely to undermine security and disrupt the lives of civilians in Sweida province, reaffirming its commitment to continue confronting any threats to public safety.

Doha-SANA

Syria’s men’s national soccer team booked its place in the group stage of the 11th Arab Cup with a 2–0 victory over South Sudan on Tuesday in a qualifying playoff match in Doha, Qatar.

Mohammad Al-Hallaq opened the scoring in the 52nd minute, and Mahmoud Al-Mawas doubled the lead seven minutes later to secure Syria’s spot in the tournament.

With the win, Syria advances to the group stage, where it will join host nation Qatar and Tunisia, along with the winner of the Palestine–Libya playoff.

Amer Dhawa

The Syrian Ministry of Interior confirmed the discovery of four mass graves on al-Sittin Street, north of Homs city, during excavation work conducted by local civilians. The graves reportedly contain the remains of dozens of individuals.

In a statement published on Telegram, the Ministry indicated that the relevant authorities have been notified and have begun investigations to conduct forensic examinations, record the details of the newly discovered graves, and verify the possible existence of additional burial sites.

Over recent months, Syrian authorities have uncovered several mass graves across different regions of the country, containing the remains of hundreds of individuals who were killed during the years of the revolution by the forces of the deposed regime and its allies. The Syrian Network for Human Rights has documented nearly 177,000 cases of enforced disappearance since March 2011.

Damascus-SANA

President Ahmad al-Sharaa received on Tuesday a delegation from the U.S. Congress, headed by congressman Darin LaHood, to discuss means of enhancing cooperation between the two countries.

The two sides exchanged viewpoints on a number of international issues of common interest.

The meeting focused on the importance of continuing constructive communication between the two sides in a way that serves mutual interests and contributes to supporting regional stability.

Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, attended the meeting.

Mazen

As the world celebrates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women each year on November 25, international reports show that ongoing wars and armed conflicts remain among the primary factors fueling violence against women and aggravating its humanitarian impact. According to UN data, the world is witnessing the highest number of armed conflicts since 1946, placing millions of women under unprecedented levels of threat.

Figures issued by the United Nations indicate that around 676 million women now live within 50 kilometers of active, deadly conflict zones—marking the highest level since the 1990s. Civilian casualties among women and children have quadrupled over the past two years, while incidents of violence against women have increased by 87 percent.

Years of Violence, Detention, and Displacement

The Syrian Network for Human Rights reports that 22,123 women were killed by the deposed regime, while the fate of more than 8,500 women remains unknown. Testimonies from female survivors indicate that regime forces used the detention of women as leverage against family members who opposed its actions, subjecting detainees to severe torture. Some accounts describe infants being taken from their mothers and placed in orphanages, leaving permanent psychological scars.

Over the years of the crisis, hundreds of thousands of Syrian women were displaced to camps under harsh humanitarian conditions. Many were forced to assume full responsibility for their families following the loss of primary providers. Despite this, Syrian women contributed significantly to national resilience and played a notable role in the country’s liberation on December 8, 2024, continuing today to participate actively across social, economic, and political fields.

Areas Hit Hardest by Violence Against Women Escalates Humanitarian Cost

In the occupied Palestinian territories, UN Women reports that Gaza has become the deadliest place in the world for women, with more than 33,000 women killed since October 2023—many of them in their homes, shelters, or while searching for food to provide for their dependents.

In Sudan, women comprise the majority of the millions displaced by the ongoing conflict, facing heightened risks linked to instability, forced movement, and the collapse of basic services.
Long-Term Humanitarian and Social Impacts

Experts warn that the consequences of war extend far beyond immediate violence. Studies show a rise in maternal mortality rates in post-conflict environments, coupled with acute economic hardship and the erosion of social support networks. These conditions exacerbate the challenges facing women long after hostilities subside.

Calls for Action

With global conflict zones expanding, international organizations stress the need to strengthen enforcement of protective legislation and to enhance accountability for perpetrators of violence. The United Nations’ “UNITE to End Violence Against Women” campaign—running until December 10—focuses this year on combating digital violence and ending impunity.

Behind every statistic stands a woman carrying a story of survival, loss, or resilience. As wars redraw borders and uproot communities, women remain on the front lines of humanitarian hardship. The path toward justice and protection remains long, but their steadfast endurance continues to anchor hopes for a more humane future.

The Syrian Interior Ministry announced Tuesday that its security units have dismantled an ISIS-affiliated terrorist cell in the Afrin district in northwestern Aleppo.

The operation, described by officials as “precise and coordinated,” began on Monday and was carried out in collaboration with the General Intelligence Directorate.

Colonel Mohammad Abdel-Ghany, head of Internal Security in Aleppo Governorate, said in a statement published on the ministry’s Telegram channel that specialized units succeeded in arresting several members of the cell involved in hostile activities aimed at undermining security and stability in the area.

According to Abdel-Ghany, the operation also led to the seizure of large quantities of weapons and diverse ammunition, including improvised explosive devices, detonation equipment, manufacturing tools, and materials used in preparing explosives.

Abdel-Ghany also stressed that the operation is part of ongoing nationwide efforts to combat terrorism and protect civilians, adding that security units will continue to pursue extremist cells “with determination until all terrorist threats are eliminated and stability is fully restored in Aleppo Governorate and across the country.”

Latifa al-Droubi, wife of President Ahmad al-Sharaa, met Tuesday in Doha with Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development, and Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of the Foundation. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 12th World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE 12).

The discussions centered on collaborations in education and culture, including the exchange of expertise, curriculum development, and youth empowerment.

The spokesperson for Syria’s Ministry of the Interior, Nour Eddin al-Baba, reaffirmed that the Syrian government is the guarantor of the rights and protection of all Syrians. He also urged the people of Syria’s coastal region to resist external calls aimed at promoting unrest and chaos in their communities.

In comments shared on Telegram, al-Baba addressed recent protests in the coastal region, stating that he had personally toured Homs with local security officials. During his visit, he met with residents who had witnessed unsettling incidents. He reassured them and described the conversations as “productive and positive,” with no incidents of violence reported. He also expressed his gratitude to the people of Homs for their warm hospitality and generosity.

Al-Baba reiterated that the right to protest and express opinions is a fundamental right guaranteed to all Syrians, secured by the sacrifices of the country’s martyrs during the revolution. He emphasized that the Ministry of the Interior is committed to protecting this right, while maintaining neutrality toward all Syrian communities.

However, the spokesperson warned against being drawn into “external calls that seek to sow division and destabilize the social fabric.” He noted that such actions could provoke unnecessary reactions.

In an interview with Syrian state TV, Al-Ikhbaria, al-Baba explained that the country’s internal security forces had been deployed to secure protests in the coastal region, ensuring there were no incidents that could be exploited by those promoting chaos. He stressed that the Ministry fully supports the right to peaceful expression, as long as it remains within the boundaries of the law and does not threaten national stability.

Al-Baba further pointed out that those behind the calls for unrest are based outside Syria and are disconnected from the realities of life in the coastal region. He criticized the use of sectarian rhetoric in some protests, emphasizing that it reveals the true agenda of those orchestrating the unrest.

He concluded by saying that such calls are designed to “drag the region into a cycle of instability,” adding that the demands being raised cannot be addressed through chaos or external manipulation.

Mrs. Latifa al-Droubi, wife of President Ahmad al-Sharaa, participated in a panel discussion titled “Placing Education at the Center of Economic Opportunities and Social Resilience” during the 12th World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE 12) in Doha.

The session brought together several ministers, representatives from ministries of education, policymakers, and experts from international organizations to discuss the role of education in fostering economic opportunities and strengthening social resilience.

The World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) is an international platform focused on creative thinking and collaboration in education. The 12th edition of WISE, titled ” Human Values at the Heart of Education” and aims to explore how education can evolve to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world while integrating new technologies and innovations.