Author: Steven Sahiounie

Reopening of Aleppo International Airport: A New Chapter for Syrian Aviation The Syrian Civil Aviation Authority has recently announced the reopening of Aleppo International Airport, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to restore normalcy and connectivity. Starting Tuesday, March 18, the airport will resume operations for both domestic and international flights after completing all necessary technical and administrative preparations. This development is expected to boost travel and economic activity in the region. A Milestone in Restoration Efforts The reopening of Aleppo International Airport comes after years of challenges faced by the aviation sector in Syria. The completion of…

Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator Diplomats from China, Russia and Iran met in Beijing today demonstrating support for Iran. Today’s meeting involved China’s Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi. Following the talks, Ma stressed China’s support for “political and diplomatic engagement and dialogue based on mutual respect.” He added that the relevant parties should address the root causes while abandoning sanctions, pressure, or threat of force. China-Russia-Iran ties Both China and Russia enjoy close relations with Iran following various energy resource deals, and all three countries are…

Rubio: America Built the Panama Canal, and Enforcing Trump’s Decisions Is a Priority The Panama Canal, a monumental engineering feat constructed by the United States in the early 20th century, has recently resurfaced as a focal point in U.S. foreign policy. Under the guidance of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Trump administration has prioritized reasserting American influence over this critical waterway, reflecting broader geopolitical strategies and historical ties. Historical Context of the Panama Canal Completed in 1914 after a decade of arduous labor, the Panama Canal was a testament to American ingenuity and ambition. Initially under U.S. control, it…

Security Council Approves Statement Condemning “Widespread Violence” in Syria’s Coastal Region In a move reflecting growing international concern over the security situation in Syria, the United Nations Security Council has approved a statement condemning the “widespread violence” occurring in the Syrian coastal region. This decision comes amid escalating tensions and clashes that have claimed the lives of numerous civilians, prompting the international community to take a decisive stance to curb this deterioration. Background of the Crisis in Syria’s Coastal Region The Syrian coastal region, which includes governorates such as Latakia and Tartus, has been witnessing escalating tensions due to internal…

Syria Clarifies Position on Importing Saudi Oil and Activating Iraqi Pipeline Ahmed Suleiman, the Director of Public Relations at the Ministry of Oil and Mineral Resources in Syria’s interim government, stated that the country imports crude oil through competitive bidding processes. This approach ensures the best options are selected, securing reliable supplies while adhering to contractual terms. Suleiman emphasized that Syria currently has no negotiations underway to import crude oil from Iraq or Saudi Arabia. This clarification addresses speculation about potential partnerships with regional oil producers, highlighting the nation’s cautious approach to its energy needs. The Iraqi-Syrian Oil Pipeline: Challenges…

Qatar Announces Initiative to Supply Natural Gas for Syria’s Electricity Needs Khalifa Abdullah Al Mahmoud Al Sharif, the Acting Chargé d’Affaires of the Qatari Embassy in Syria, announced a Qatari initiative to provide natural gas supplies to Syria via Jordanian territories. The goal is to contribute to generating 400 megawatts (MW) of electricity, addressing part of Syria’s critical power shortage. During a meeting with Syria’s Minister of Electricity, Eng. Omar Shaqrouq, at the Deir Ali Power Station in the Damascus countryside, Al Sharif emphasized that the initiative aligns with the directives of Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.…

Syrian President Signs New Constitutional Declaration for Transitional Phase Syrian Transitional President Ahmed al-Sharaa signed a new constitutional declaration, prepared by the Drafting Committee of the Constitutional Declaration, in a significant step aimed at establishing a legal framework for Syria’s transitional phase. This move is designed to provide stability and structure during a critical period in the country’s history, addressing governance, rights, and institutional reforms. The Syrian Transitional Constitution sets the stage for a five-year transitional period, aiming to balance legislative authority, protect fundamental rights, and ensure a structured transition of power. Key Provisions of the Syrian Transitional Constitution The…

Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator On March 10, SDF commander Mazloum Abdi wrote on X that the agreement signed between himself and interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa represents a “real opportunity to build a new Syria.” The historic deal will ultimately see the integration of SDF-controlled armed forces into Syrian state institutions by the end of the year. The agreement is vague and does not detail how the SDF forces will be merged into what is to become a new Syrian national army. In previous negotiations with Damascus, Abdi had wanted the SDF to join the defense ministry as…

Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator The grim job of graves being dug, and burials has finally begun up and down the Syrian coast as calm is slowly restored, and the survivors of Alawite families can return home to bury their dead. According to Western diplomatic sources, the Damascus administration of interim President Ahmad Sharaa will be arresting Abu Amsha, the head of the 25th division, in the investigation of sectarian crimes on the coast. His real name is Mohammed Al-Jassin, from eastern Syria. On March 10, Sharaa said mass killings of members of a minority sect were a threat…

Iraqi Authorities Threaten to Deport Residents Inciting Sectarianism The Iraqi Ministry of Interior announced on Wednesday that it has recorded instances of incitement to violence and sectarianism by some residents. The ministry emphasized that anyone who violates the values of Iraqi society will face immediate deportation. Spokesman for the ministry, Brigadier General Miqdad Miri, stated in a press release, “Iraq embraces newcomers and residents with respect and appreciation, but it will not tolerate any actions that fuel discord or threaten social peace.” Security Forces Detect Sectarian ActivitiesMiri further revealed that Iraq’s security and intelligence agencies have identified illegal activities with…