France urged Israel to respect Syria’s sovereignty and withdraw from the Golan demilitarized zone, citing the 1974 disengagement agreement. The UN also criticized Israel’s actions. Israeli PM Netanyahu justified IDF’s incursion into the buffer zone, citing threats from Syria’s instability. Israel conducted strikes on Syrian military sites. The U.S. defended Israel’s actions, noting the Syrian army’s withdrawal created a potential terrorist threat, but emphasized Israel’s actions are temporary. Noah Prescott 12/12/2024 11:00 am
The UN General Assembly passed a resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, with 158 votes in favor, 9 against, and 13 abstentions. The resolution also calls for the release of all hostages. Another resolution supporting UNRWA, opposed by Israel, passed with 159 votes. Representatives highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging action to prevent further tragedy. Ava Sinclair 12/12/2024 11:00 am
Israel has launched over 350 air and naval strikes on Syrian military assets, exploiting the disarray following the Assad regime’s fall. The IDF claims to have destroyed 70-80% of Syria’s strategic military capabilities, including aircraft, radar, and naval ships. Ground forces have moved into a demilitarized zone in Syria, aiming to create a “sterile defense zone.” The operation is described as Israel’s largest against Syria, with some targets identified decades ago. Control of strategic positions like Mt. Hermon enhances Israel’s security posture. Noah Prescott 11/12/2024 9:00 pm
Israeli strikes on Gaza killed at least 29 people, including 19 in Beit Lahiya, where a family of eight died. The strikes targeted areas near a hospital, causing panic among patients. The Israeli military claimed it aimed at a Hamas militant and disputed casualty reports. The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict persists despite ceasefire efforts, with U.S. administrations seeking resolution. Hospital director Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya reported distress calls from trapped individuals but couldn’t assist due to ongoing risks. Noah Prescott 11/12/2024 5:30 pm
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accused the US and Israel of orchestrating the Syrian government’s collapse, claiming evidence supports this. He also hinted at a neighboring country’s involvement without specifying which. The rapid fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime followed a surprise rebel offensive in late November, capturing major cities and leading to Assad’s exile in Moscow. Syria’s 13-year conflict began in 2011, resulting in significant casualties and displacement. Assad, backed by Iran and Russia, had regained control until the recent offensive by opposition forces. Ava Sinclair 11/12/2024 5:30 pm
Pope Francis expressed hope for a political solution in Syria to ensure stability and unity, praying for peace and mutual respect among religions. He has previously donated to aid war-torn Syria. Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accused the US and Israel of orchestrating Bashar al-Assad’s downfall, claiming evidence without providing proof. Iran, a supporter of Assad, is weakened by his fall. Khamenei hinted at a neighboring country’s role, likely Turkey. Mohammad al-Jolani, leader of the forces that ousted Assad, assured foreign governments Syria isn’t ready for another war. Noah Prescott 11/12/2024 5:30 pm
Wafa Mustafa, a Syrian journalist, continues to search for her father, Ali, who disappeared in 2013. Following Assad’s ouster, social media is filled with Syrians reuniting with long-detained relatives, highlighting the regime’s brutality. Mustafa remains hopeful despite no news of her father. Syrian rebel leader al-Jolani demands justice for detainee torture under Assad. France urges Israel to withdraw from the Golan Heights buffer zone, while US Secretary of State Blinken plans to visit Turkey. A US-brokered truce was announced in Manbij, Syria. Ava Sinclair 11/12/2024 5:30 pm
Israel confirmed attacks on Syria’s naval fleet, targeting ports at Al-Bayda and Latakia, destroying 15 vessels. The IDF conducted over 350 airstrikes on various military targets across Syria, including airfields and weapon depots, to prevent assets from reaching extremists. Israel’s Defense Minister called the operation a “great success,” aiming to neutralize threats. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warned Syrian rebels against allowing Iran’s presence. The IDF also confirmed troop movements beyond the buffer zone near the Golan Heights. Penelope Kingsley 11/12/2024 2:00 pm
The Biden administration will support a new Syrian government that renounces terrorism, destroys chemical weapons, and protects minority and women’s rights. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized working with Syrian groups and regional partners for a smooth transition from Assad’s government. Despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Syria, the U.S. remains committed to targeting ISIS and supporting Israel. Blinken stressed the importance of an inclusive process for Syria’s future, with the U.S. ready to support diverse Syrian communities. Noah Prescott 11/12/2024 7:00 am
Before Assad’s overthrow, global players in Syria included Russia and Iran, who supported Assad, and the US and Turkey, who backed various rebel groups. Turkey, in particular, supported the Syrian National Army to counter the Kurdish YPG militia, linked to the PKK. Turkey also aimed to manage Syrian refugees and seized territory from the YPG and SDF. After Assad’s fall, these countries, along with Israel, continue to influence Syria’s future political landscape. Turkey and Russia previously brokered a ceasefire in Idlib, dominated by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which played a key role in Assad’s overthrow. Ava Sinclair 11/12/2024 7:00 am
