UN chief sees ‘flame of hope’ in Syria, calls for end to Israel strikes

US diplomats have arrived in Syria to engage with the new Islamist-led rulers, aiming to promote a moderate and inclusive path while seeking information on missing Americans. The delegation, led by Barbara Leaf and Daniel Rubinstein, will meet with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham representatives and other Syrian groups to discuss the country's future and US support. Despite concerns about HTS's terrorist designation, discussions are ongoing on potential sanctions relief and diplomatic engagement in the post-Assad era....

Egypt adopted its first-ever asylum law, sparking concerns from human rights groups over its "security-focused approach" that could undermine refugee protections. The legislation, signed by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, aims to manage the growing refugee population, with over nine million "guests" now in Egypt. Critics argue the law was rushed and lacks consultation with civil society organizations or the UNHCR, raising fears of weakened refugee protections and a climate of fear around refugees. Full Article

The United Arab Emirates has reassured the United States that it has ceased providing weapons to paramilitaries in Sudan, prompting US lawmakers to drop opposition to a $1.2 billion arms sale to the Gulf state. The UAE pledged to halt transfers to Sudan's Rapid Support Forces amid concerns of escalating violence in the country, with lawmakers warning of future blocks if compliance is not maintained. The move comes as the UN experts previously found credible...

The Israeli Air Force conducted airstrikes in Yemen, targeting Houthi military positions and infrastructure, while intercepting a ballistic missile fired at central Israel. The attacks resulted in casualties and damage, with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warning of further retaliation against the Houthis for threatening Israel. The strikes were part of ongoing conflict between Israel and the Houthis, who have launched numerous missiles and drones at Israel in support of Palestinians in Gaza, with most...

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Syria's HTS rebels to fulfill promises of inclusion, citing the Taliban's isolation after showing a moderate facade in Afghanistan. Blinken emphasized the importance of a non-sectarian Syrian government that protects minorities, addresses security concerns, and engages in a political settlement with other groups to avoid Assad's downfall. He called on HTS to avoid isolation by moving the country forward and learning from the mistakes of other extremist groups....

Turkey rejected US President-elect Donald Trump's claim that the rebel ouster of Syrian strongman Bashar al-Assad was an "unfriendly takeover" by Ankara, with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stating that it was not a takeover but rather the will of the Syrian people. Fidan emphasized the importance of cooperation and solidarity with the Syrian people, cautioning against Turkish domination in Syria. Additionally, Fidan addressed the Kurdish question, warning Syria's new rulers to address the issue of...