SANA - Syrian Arab News Agency

The Gaza Media Office has reported that Israeli forces have violated the ceasefire agreement 393 times since the implementation of the ceasefire on October 10, leading to the deaths of 279 Palestinians, injuring more than 652, and detaining 35 others.

According to a statement issued Wednesday, the violations by Israeli forces have included 113 instances of direct gunfire targeting civilians, homes, and displaced persons’ tents, 17 incursions into residential and agricultural areas by Israeli military vehicles, 174 air and ground-based bombing and shelling operations, and 85 demolitions of civilian homes and infrastructure.

The office described these actions as part of a deliberate and systematic campaign of destruction and collective punishment against Gaza’s civilian population, amounting to a flagrant violation of international law, particularly the Geneva Conventions.

The Gaza Media Office condemned these ongoing violations and called on U.S. President Donald Trump, international mediators, and the countries involved in guaranteeing the ceasefire to take immediate action to halt the Israeli assaults. It also urged the United Nations Security Council to pressure Israel to fully adhere to the ceasefire terms and humanitarian protocols, ensuring the protection of civilians and calling for an end to the escalating violence.

The war on Gaza which started on October 7, 2023, has claimed at least 69,483 Palestinian lives and left 170,706 others injured. Many victims remain trapped under rubble, with rescue teams unable to reach them due to the scale of the destruction.

President Ahmad al-Sharaa met with the directors of public banks on Wednesday to discuss the current state of the governmental banking sector and its role in the country’s upcoming economic phase. Abdul Qader Husariya, Governor of the Central Bank of Syria, also attended the meeting.

The meeting focused on reviewing the state of public banks and their plans for institutional and operational development. Discussions also addressed reform initiatives aimed at modernizing the banking sector’s infrastructure and improving efficiency, with the goal of preparing the sector to meet future financial and developmental needs.

President al-Sharaa emphasized the importance of developing public banking tools and expanding the sector’s role in supporting monetary stability and financing Syria’s economic recovery.

Interior Minister Anas Khattab announced that more than 150,000 travel-ban and movement-restriction records were removed from the Immigration and Passports Department database, most of them linked to security-service procedures from the era of the former regime, as part of efforts to ease citizens’ transactions and facilitate travel.

In a post published on the X platform on Wednesday, the minister said the removal was carried out “with the follow-up of a specialized committee from the Information Directorate, the Criminal Investigation Department and the Immigration and Passports Department, and in collaboration with the Ministries of Defense and Justice.”

The minister added that the step completes implementation of Resolution No. 20, issued last March, under which nearly 4,700,000 procedures had already been removed, most of them linked to defection cases, failure to perform compulsory military service or various alleged security-based travel bans, bringing the total removed so far to 4,850,719 procedures.

Khattab stressed that the committee continues working to eliminate all unfair procedures that impede citizens’ transactions, in coordination with the Ministries of Justice, Defense and Finance. He noted that complaint offices receive urgent travel-ban removal requests, which are handled by a specialized team.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Syria announced Wednesday the appointment of Syrian actor Qays Sheikh Najib as its first-ever ambassador to the country, aiming to support children’s rights to safety, health, and education.

The appointment was announced at a press conference in Damascus, held in commemoration of World Children’s Day. The ambassador will work with UNICEF to advocate for every child’s right to health, education, safety, and equality.

He will support programs for children, participate in campaigns aimed at changing perceptions, and raise awareness of UNICEF’s work while mobilizing resources for the benefit of children in Syria.

“Health, education, and other sectors in Syria are facing significant challenges and urgent needs, while resources remain limited,” said Zeinab Adam, Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Syria, at the press conference. “Our ambassador in Syria will play an important role in advocating for children and raising awareness that their future must be a priority for all.”

In turn, Qays Sheikh Najib said, “I am proud to be a UNICEF ambassador, and this is not just a title, but a moral duty,” he said, noting that during the 14 years of war, Syrian children have suffered, with many leaving school at a time when every child has the right to education, health, and a safe place to live. “I pledge to the children of my country that I will exert every effort to work for their well-being,” he concluded.

The United Nations has called on Israel to immediately lift its restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, as extreme winter weather has worsened an already devastating situation in the region.

Tom Fletcher, the UN’s Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, warned that the people of Gaza are enduring sever weather conditions acerbating humanitarian crisis.

In a post on X, Fletcher said, “Palestinians in Gaza are suffering from the cold and rain. The situation is becoming even more desperate as floodwaters rise, destroying what little they have left.”

Fletcher emphasized that while the UN and its partners are mobilizing to provide aid, the need is far greater than the resources available. He urged Israel to urgently lift the remaining restrictions on the flow of humanitarian assistance to allow more aid to reach the people in Gaza.

Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, addressed the situation in a press briefing, confirming that UN teams are continuing to distribute essential supplies like tents, blankets, and other relief items to families affected by the heavy rains in Gaza.

Haq also noted that the UN’s Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process has allocated $18 million from the humanitarian fund for the occupied Palestinian territories to support urgent relief efforts in Gaza.

The severe weather conditions, including torrential rains and winter storms, have further aggravated the already harsh living conditions in Gaza. Thousands of displaced people have been left without shelter as their tents have flooded.

In recent days, heavy rain and strong winds have caused widespread flooding across Gaza, submerging thousands of tents that house displaced families. Many of these individuals had already lost their homes to Israeli airstrikes during the ongoing conflict.

Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai warned against placing blind trust in the output of artificial intelligence (AI) tools.

In an interview with the BBC, Pichai stated, “AI models can make mistakes and pose potential risks.”

He recommended using AI models in conjunction with other tools, noting that they can be particularly helpful for creative tasks. However, he added, “Current AI technology is still prone to certain errors, despite its recent advancements.”

When asked whether Google is protected from the impact of a possible AI bubble, Pichai said, “No company would be immune, including Google itself.”

Last month, JPMorgan Chase Chairman and CEO, the largest bank in the U.S., also warned of a potential stock market collapse due to an “AI bubble.”

President Ahmad al-Sharaa held a meeting on Wednesday with the directors of private banks in Syria to discuss the state of the banking sector and its challenges. The meeting was attended by Abdul Qader Husariya, Governor of the Central Bank of Syria.

The President discussed with the directors the role of banks in supporting productive sectors, enhancing services, and upgrading their technological infrastructure. The discussions also explored ways to revitalize the banking sector as part of preparations for Syria’s economic recovery and future investments.

President al-Sharaa underscored the banking sector’s crucial role as a key pillar in the country’s efforts to rebuild its economy.

Turkey has officially appointed Nuh Yılmaz, its Deputy Foreign Minister, as the new ambassador to Syria, according to an announcement from Ankara.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a decree naming Yılmaz as Turkey’s ambassador to the Syrian Arab Republic, Anadolu Agency reported.
Turkey reopened its embassy in Damascus on December 14, following a 12-year closure. The embassy had been shut in protest of the actions of the previous Syrian regime. Upon reopening, Burhan Koroglu was appointed as Turkey’s Charge d’Affaires in Damascus.

The “Faces” workshop, dedicated to vocal training and group singing, culminated in the “ShaMari” concert at the Drama Stage of the Damascus Opera House on Tuesday evening. The two-week program, led by artist Ribal al-Khodari and supported by the Syrian Ministry of Culture, brought together children, young adults, and music enthusiasts from various backgrounds.

The concert featured musical pieces dedicated to influential figures in al-Khodari’s career, including Gerald Wirth, founder of the Vienna Boys’ Choir.

Overwhelming Response to the Workshop

Al-Khodari, who coordinated the workshop, revealed that the event received an overwhelming response, with 215 applicants registering in under an hour. He emphasized that all applicants were accepted, highlighting his belief that “singing is an intrinsic part of human identity, offering a space for joy and personal expression, regardless of profession.”

Having recently returned to Syria after 15 years of work in Austria, Germany, Spain, France, and Canada, al-Khodari established the workshop to provide mentorship and hands-on experience to emerging talents.

A Unique Fusion of Musical Cultures

The concert marked the conclusion of the workshop’s focus on group singing and vocal techniques, with al-Khodari explaining that the program sought to merge Eastern and Western folk traditions. This blending of musical styles aimed to expand the participants’ musical horizons, offering them a chance to explore a variety of sounds and genres.

The event was attended by music lovers and the families of the participants, celebrating the successful completion of the current phase of the “ShaMari” project.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and U.S. President Donald Trump signed a strategic defense partnership agreement at the White House on Wednesday, according to the Saudi Press Agency in a report published the same day.

The agency said the agreement falls within the framework of the long-standing strategic partnership between the two countries, rooted in more than ninety years of cooperation. It noted that the pact represents an important step in strengthening long-term defense relations and reflects the two sides’ shared commitment to supporting peace, security and prosperity in the region.

The agreement confirms that Saudi Arabia and the United States are security partners capable of working jointly to address regional and international threats, in a manner that deepens defense coordination, enhances deterrence and readiness, and supports the development and integration of defense capabilities between the two nations.

The new framework establishes a sustainable basis for ongoing defense cooperation aimed at bolstering the security and stability of both countries.

Saudi-U.S. cooperation dates back to the 1930s and spans defense, energy and economic fields. Over the decades, the defense relationship has included joint agreements and programs designed to enhance military capabilities and strengthen regional security.

The Crown Prince arrived in Washington on Tuesday for an official working visit, during which he discussed with the U.S. President ways to reinforce bilateral relations and address issues of mutual interest

Syria is set to host the “NASTEX2026” International Textile Exhibition from April 1-4, under the patronage of President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The event aims to revitalize Syria’s vital textile industry and reassert the country’s position as a regional hub for trade and industry.
Textile is a Syrian Identity
At a press conference, Minister of Economy and Industry Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar highlighted the historic significance of Syria’s textile sector. “Textile is not merely an economic sector; it is integral to our national identity and economic heritage,” he said.
He emphasized that the exhibition will help reposition Syria as a key regional player in trade and industry, fostering strong economic partnerships between the East and West. These partnerships, he added, will allow Syria to shape its place on the global industrial map rather than merely searching for it.

Minister al-Shaar also underscored the sector’s potential to drive employment and foster national pride. “The textile industry represents more than just production; it tells the story of our nation, our culture, and our values,” he said. He stressed that the industry serves as a bridge connecting Syrians both at home and abroad.

He urged Syrian expatriates who have preserved their craft and shared their expertise internationally to return home. “The Syrian government is committed to creating a welcoming investment climate and encouraging your return through new partnerships,” he assured them.

Reviving National Heritage

Minister of Culture Mohammad Yassin al-Saleh echoed these sentiments, stressing that Syria’s textile industry is deeply intertwined with the country’s cultural identity. “The textile industry is not just an industrial sector; it reflects Syria’s heritage and collective memory,” he said. “Reviving this industry is about more than restoring production; it’s about reclaiming our nation’s spirit, traditions, and beauty.”

A Step Toward Economic Renewal

Mohammad Hamza, Director-General of the Syrian Exhibitions and International Markets Corporation, emphasized that the exhibition is a crucial step in revitalizing the textile sector and reaffirming its role as a key contributor to Syria’s national economy. “This exhibition will bring together industrialists, investors, traders, and key economic stakeholders under one roof, creating a direct platform for collaboration and new opportunities in production and marketing,” he said.

The exhibition will span 150,000 square meters and showcase a wide range of sectors reflecting Syria’s diverse industrial base. Participants will present the latest trends in textile design, interior decoration, and ready-made garments, all of which demonstrate the exceptional skill and quality of Syrian manufacturers.

The Ministry of Education inaugurated 13 schools in the eastern and southern areas of Idleb countryside on Wednesday after completing full rehabilitation as part of its plan to restore schools that had been out of service.

In a statement to SANA’s correspondent, Mohammed Hannoun, Director of School Buildings at the Ministry, said rehabilitation work included repairing damaged walls and ceilings, equipping classrooms, upgrading sanitary facilities, restoring schoolyards and improving safety features to ensure a secure and supportive learning environment for students.

Hannoun added that the Ministry recently completed the restoration and rehabilitation of 320 schools in Idleb Province and is currently working on restoring 332 additional schools. He noted that the efforts aim to rebuild damaged educational infrastructure and strengthen stability for students and teachers across the governorate.

Idleb’s schools form a vital part of the national commitment to reviving education services in areas affected by conflict, and this will ensure children return to classrooms equipped to support their academic and social development.

U.S. President Donald Trump described his recent discussions with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa as “constructive,” adding that both Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had pressed him to lift sanctions on Syria to give the country a chance to rebuild.

Speaking at a press conference following his meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed at the White House on Tuesday, Trump explained that the Saudi crown prince had personally called him, urging the removal of sanctions to allow Syria to recover. Trump also noted that President al-Sharaa had visited the White House recently, and that their meeting had been productive.

The U.S. president further revealed that President Erdogan had similarly called for sanctions relief, stressing that without such measures, Syria would not be able to recover.

Turning to U.S.-Saudi relations, Trump praised the Kingdom as “a strong ally and an important partner,” lauding Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership. “He is a remarkable man who has strengthened Saudi Arabia and made it a more influential country,” Trump said. “Our alliance with Saudi Arabia is not only strategic but growing, with more partnerships and agreements to come.”

Trump also highlighted new opportunities for cooperation, particularly in energy, with an emphasis on nuclear and renewable sectors. “We are exploring the possibility of a civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia, and we are working to approve the export of advanced technologies,” he explained. He also confirmed that Saudi Arabia would soon be authorized to purchase F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin, calling them “exceptional.”

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for his part, underscored the importance of the U.S.-Saudi relationship, noting that both countries have significant work ahead to deepen their ties. He also revealed plans for Saudi Arabia to substantially increase its investments in the U.S., with projections ranging from $600 billion to $1 trillion.

The Crown Prince is currently in Washington for an official visit, following an invitation from President Trump and under the guidance of King Salman of Saudi Arabia.

Israeli forces launched new ground incursions into the town of Breiqa in southern Quneitra early Wednesday.

According to SANA reporter in Quneitra, an Israeli force, consisting of a Hilux pickup truck and a van, entered the town of Breiqa and then withdrew shortly afterward.

Another force consisting of four Hummer military vehicles entered the town of Bir Ajam, set up a checkpoint, and searched passersby before withdrawing from the area, he added.

On Tuesday, Israeli forces advanced into the village of Ruwayhina in central Quneitra and also entered the Yarmouk Basin area in the western Daraa countryside. Additionally, they targeted the eastern Tal Ahmar Forest in southern Quneitra with artillery shells.

Israel’s ongoing assaults on Syrian territory violate the 1974 disengagement agreement, international law, and United Nations resolutions.

Syria consistently condemns these attacks and calls on the international community to take firm action to halt them.

Justice Minister Mazhar al-Wais met with Jordan’s Ambassador to Damascus, Sufian al-Qudah, to discuss ways of enhancing legal cooperation and exchanging judicial expertise between the two countries.

During the meeting, they explored avenues to strengthen joint efforts in the legal and judicial sectors, aiming to benefit citizens and reinforce the rule of law. They also discussed developing a more robust legal cooperation framework.

Both sides emphasized the importance of ongoing coordination and consultation to solidify judicial ties, further strengthening relations between Syria and Jordan.

Syria took part in the launch of the Arab Association of Scientific Research Councils’ new initiative at the headquarters of the League of Arab States in Cairo, with Higher Education and Scientific Research Minister Marwan Al-Halabi representing the country.

The event, held under the theme “Solidarity for the Future… Scientific Research Cannot Wait,” brought together several Arab ministers, representatives of regional and international organizations, and donor agencies.

The initiative, launched yesterday, aims to support researchers and academic institutions in countries affected by crises and conflicts. Its goals include rehabilitating damaged research centers, improving access to global research resources through strengthened partnerships with researchers, and building a comprehensive database of researchers and their needs.

Organizers say the effort marks an important step toward advancing applied scientific research in crisis-affected areas and encouraging greater cooperation among Arab states. The Arab Association of Scientific Research Councils was established in 1977 as part of the League of Arab States’ joint Arab action system. It includes in its membership all Arab countries, represented by their respective scientific research bodies.

Amer Dhawa

Justice Minister, Mazhar al-Wais discussed on Tuesday with Fadel Abdulghany, head of the Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR), mechanisms for cooperation in the fields of transitional justice and the promotion of human rights.

The two sides reviewed the role of human rights organizations in ongoing and future trials, and how their involvement can help enhance transparency and ensure legal safeguards are upheld.

Speaking to SANA following the meeting, Abdulghani said the primary goal of coordination with the Ministry of Justice is to advance the path of transitional justice in Syria. He stressed that the network is open to such cooperation, given the ministry’s pivotal role in this historic phase.

He added that discussions focused on ways to activate and expand joint cooperation, particularly regarding ongoing trials, in addition to examining legal cases filed against the former regime.

Abdulghani noted that the network intends to contribute more effectively to the justice process by relying on the extensive documentation and data it has collected throughout the years of the Syrian uprising.

Amer Dhawa

Justice Minister, Mazhar al-Weis, confirmed on Tuesday that there is no place in the current phase for revenge or abuses, but rather for rights, accountability, and rejecting impunity.

“We are writing a new chapter in the record of justice for Syria’s future,” al-Weis said in a post on the X platform, emphasizing the entrenchment of judicial independence, the rule of law, and a phase built on transparency and fairness.

Earlier in the day, the first public trial session was held at the Aleppo Justice Palace for 14 defendants accused of violations during the coastal events that took place last March.

The first part of the proceedings involved seven detainees from remnants of the regime’s irregular elements, charged with inciting sectarian strife, theft, and assaulting Internal Security Forces and the Syrian Arab Army. Their hearings were adjourned until December 18.

Amer Dhawa

An introductory session for the “Aleppo, Mother of All” campaign was held in Istanbul on Tuesday with the attendance of an official delegation headed by Aleppo Governor Azzam al-Gharib.

The session aimed to introduce members of the Syrian community in Turkey to the campaign’s goals, plans, and operational pathways. It also outlined initiatives related to humanitarian and development support connected to reconstruction efforts, as well as ways to strengthen community participation in efforts to revive the city.

Amer Dhawa