بواسطة Media Roundup Editors | يوليو 19, 2017 | Media Roundups
This is a roundup of news articles and other materials circulating on Syria and reflects a wide variety of opinions. It does not reflect the views of the Editors. You may send your own recommendations for inclusion in each week’s roundup to info@SalonSyria.com by Monday night of every week.
Inside Syria
Food supplies reach families from Syria’s Raqqa as road reopens: U.N. (12 July 2017) Food supplies have reached thousands of people displaced by fighting in the Syrian city of Raqqa after road access was opened up for the first time in three years, the United Nations said on Wednesday.
Suicide bomber kills and injures scores in Syria’s Idlib province (12 July 2017) A suicide bomber rammed a car laden with explosives into a gathering of jihadist rebels near the rebel-held northwestern Syrian city of Idlib on Wednesday, killing and injuring scores, rebel sources said.
U.N. helps Syria’s women farmers by treating their livestock (14 July 2017) More than a million sheep, goats and cows have been treated for parasites in Syria to help resurrect the country’s war-battered food production and shore up its female farmers, a U.N. agency said on Friday.
Shells hit Russian embassy compound in Syria (16 July 2017) Syrian state media said that two mortar shells were fired at the Russian embassy in Damascus but reported no injuries.
Jobar: ‘Death is a central part of their daily lives’ (17 July 2017) Syrian director Maher Jamous provides an insight into making a film about life in the besieged town of Jobar.
After The Buses: Life in a Government-Controlled Damascus Suburb (18 July 2017) The Damascus suburb of Barzeh, once a thorn in the side of the Syrian government, has been under full government control for less than two months. Syria Deeply takes a look at the current situation in the neighborhood through the eyes of its remaining residents.
Syrian rebels killed in Kurdish clashes (18 July 2017) Fifteen dead in hit-and-run clashes with US-backed fighters in the country’s north, says monitoring group.
Air attacks hit Raqqa as ISIL defends stronghold (18 July 2017) Fatalities reported among warring Kurdish-led group and ISIL fighters as heavy bombardment shakes Old City of Raqqa.
Regional and International Perspectives
Is the Latest Cease-Fire in Syria Different? (12 July 2017) The recently announced cease-fire in southwestern Syria should not be dismissed as a replica of the 2016 internationally-brokered pause in fighting that failed, according to the Atlantic Council’s Frederic C. Hof.
Syria and the case for editorial accountability (12 July 2017) By publishing Seymour Hersh’s latest ‘fiction’ on Syria, German daily Die Welt served as a conduit for disinformation.
U.S. says Russia willing to deploy monitors for Syria ceasefire (13 July 2017) Russia has said it is willing to deploy monitors to prevent any violations of a ceasefire in southwestern Syria by Syrian government forces, a senior U.S. official said on Thursday.
Analysis: Shift in Rhetoric Among Kurdish Politicians in Syria (14 July 2017) Kurdish political officials in Syria are taking an increasingly anti-Iranian and pro-Saudi Arabia stance amid the rising tensions between Washington, Tehran and their proxies, and the rift between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, writes journalist Wladimir van Wilgenburg.
Russia says growing acceptance of Assad is key to Syria talks (15 July 2017) The opposition has suffered military defeats at the hands of forces loyal to President Assad over the past year.
A toehold for peace in Syria (18 July 2017) The truce in Syria’s southwest, brokered by Russia and the US, hints at war fatigue and some hope for ending a six-year war now largely driven by foreign interests.
Washington’s Dead End in Syria (18 July 2017) Sam Heller writes “Washington’s approach to fighting ISIS in Syria—and in particular the local Kurdish partner it has chosen—has granted a victory that can last only as long as the United States stays.”
U.S., Russia and Iran are battling to build bases in Syria as ISIS falls (18 July 2017) “Three of the leading international powers involved in Syria’s war—the U.S., Russia and Iran—are looking to expand and fortify their military presence in the country by building and upgrading foreign bases, with some already in the works.”
Policy and Reports
Traumatized civilians fleeing Syria’s Raqqa in droves: U.N. official (13 July 2017) Scores of civilians are fleeing Syria’s Raqqa traumatized, with families torn apart and conditions worsening as the battle to oust Islamic State intensifies, a senior U.N. official said on Thursday.
U.N. ends round of Syria talks with focus on fight against terrorism (14 July 2017) U.N. Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura put the emphasis on the international fight against terrorism on Friday as he wrapped up a round of Syria peace talks at which there was “no breakthrough, no breakdown and no one walking out”.
Lebanon will coordinate refugee returns to Syria only with U.N.: PM Hariri (14 July 2017) Lebanon will coordinate refugee returns to Syria only with the United Nations, Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri said on Friday, days after a number of refugees left for Syria under an agreement brokered by Lebanese Shi’ite group Hezbollah.
Syrian army takes more oil fields from Islamic State in Raqqa province (15 July 2017) Heavy fighting continues near Arak gas field, which the Syrian army took last month.
EU sanctions Syrian soldiers and scientists over chemical weapons (17 July 2017) Sanctions come after UN chemical watchdog ruled last month that sarin gas was used in Idlib attack.
Here’s What To Know About The Drumpf-Putin Syria Cease-Fire (17 July 2017) President Drumpf is touting a newly brokered cease-fire in southwest Syria as a major foreign policy win for his White House. After years of failed peace attempts under the Obama administration, Drumpf has boldly speculated that the new truce could mark the beginning of the end of the war.
How the Economic Model of ISIS Evolves Post-Caliphate (17 July 2017) Due to U.S.-led military operations to counter its finances, the so-called Islamic State is not only changing its military tactics but also adapting its economic practices, writes Chatham House fellow Haid Haid.
Lebanese PM says army to carry out operation at Syrian border (18 July 2017) Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri said on Tuesday the army would carry out an operation in an area of the border with Syria that has been a base of operations for militants including jihadist groups.
Chechnya becoming major player in rebuilding war-torn Syria (18 July 2017) Russia’s mostly Muslim republic of Chechnya is becoming a major player in rebuilding war-ravaged Syria. And ordinary Chechens are likely to foot the bill, with many of them being forced to make contributions or face the possibility of exile or death, human rights activists say.
Documentaries, Special Reports, and Other Media
The Passport Racket of the Syrian Government (7 July 2017) A Syrian passport once cost $9 and took only a few hours to issue. As the Syrian conflict enters its seventh year, Syrians in Turkey are paying up to $2,000 and waiting for months to get one of the world’s weakest passports.
The Syrian war crime suspects who could be brought to justice (14 July 2017) UN tasks Catherine Marchi-Uhel with securing justice for Syrian war crimes victims amid mounting evidence of abuse.
What next for Islamic State? (14 July 2017) Middle East correspondent Quentin Sommerville explains what might happen to so-called Islamic State now its “caliphate” is shrinking, following their defeat in Mosul.
EXCLUSIVE: Lebanese army accused of torturing Syrian refugees (17 July 2017) Shocking pictures show extent of injuries to four men who died in custody after being picked up in raids on camps near Arsal
Prosecutors checking whether German teenager arrested in Mosul (18 July 2017) German prosecutors said on Tuesday they were checking reports that a 16-year-old German teenager under investigation for supporting Islamic State was among five women arrested in the Iraqi city of Mosul.
Maps
Syria profile – Timeline (12 July 2017) A chronology of key events in Syria modern history and current war.
Syrian Civil War Map (16 July 2017)A map of the Syrian civil war that shows who controls what after five years of fighting.
The Campaign for Ar-Raqqa City: June 20 – July 17, 2017 (18 July 2017) The U.S. Anti-ISIS Coalition and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) achieved small but significant gains against ISIS in Ar-Raqqa City between June 20 and July 17.
Syria’s civil war explained from the beginning (18 July 2017) The Syrian civil war is the deadliest conflict the 21st century has witnessed so far.
Arabic Links:
عن سوليدير دمشق..
(11 July 2017) Talal Salman compares some attempts by Syrian companies to plan and rebuilt some of Syria’s major cities to the project of the Lebanese joint-stock company Solidere that planned and redeveloped Beirut Central District.
دابق في ريف حلب تتنفّس الحياة بعد طرد “داعش”
(13 July 2017) With the help of its local council, aspects of a normal life are gradually returning to Syria’s Dabiq following the Islamic State’s expulsion from the town in late 2016.
The English version of this article can be found here: Syrians catch breath as post-IS Dabiq takes shape
اطق باسم الجبهة الجنوبية: هدوء حذر في جنوب غرب سوريا عقب وقف إطلاق النار
(14 July 2017) In an interview with Al-Monitor, the spokesman for the Southern Front, Maj. Issam al-Rayes, talks about the recent cease-fire broken by the United States, Russia and Jordan in southern Syria, the time of violations and the boycott of the Astana talks.
The English version of this article can be found here: ‘Precarious calm’ in southwest Syria amid cease-fire
الأسد براغماتياً ديمقراطياً.. وحداثياً
(16 July 2017) Chazi Dahman analyzes the reason for Al-Assad acceptance in the West.
آلاف المهجّرين ينتظرون العودة إلى قراهم التي سيطرت عليها قوّات سوريا الديمقراطيّة في ريف حلب
(18 July 2017) After well more than a year living under wretched conditions in refugee camps, thousands of displaced residents from northern Aleppo province hope to return home soon as the Free Syrian Army fights to reclaim towns from the Syrian Democratic Forces.
The English version of this article can be found here: Fighting revives refugees’ hopes of returning to Aleppo
اتفاق هامبورغ.. مسار بديل في سورية
(18 July 2017) Ali Al Abdullah reflects on Hamburg agreement between Russia and the U.S. on Syria and the condition for its success.
أسئلة التفاهم الأميركي – الروسي حول سورية
(19 July 2017) Akram al-Bunni discusses the recent agreement between Russia and the U.S. on Syria and the implications it can bring to Syria and the region.
[This article is published jointly in partnership with Jadaliyya.]
بواسطة Media Roundup Editors | يوليو 12, 2017 | Media Roundups
This is a roundup of news articles and other materials circulating on Syria and reflects a wide variety of opinions. It does not reflect the views of the Editors. You may send your own recommendations for inclusion in each week’s roundup to info@SalonSyria.com by Monday night of every week.
Inside Syria
Rebels accuse Syrian army of chlorine attack, army calls it fabrication (1 July 2017) A Syrian rebel group accused the Syrian army of using chlorine gas against its fighters on Saturday in battles east of Damascus – an accusation the military swiftly denied as a fabrication.
Deadly car bomb blasts rock Syria’s Damascus (2 July 2017) One attacker detonates car bomb near Bab Touma, as security forces manage to explode two others on airport road.
Assad appears on Syrian currency for first time (2 July 2017) President Bashar al-Assad has appeared on the Syrian currency for the first time, his portrait printed on a new 2,000-pound banknote that went into circulation on Sunday.
Raqqa: Syrian capital of the IS ‘caliphate’ (4 July 2017) Raqqa, in northern Syria, became the de facto capital of the “caliphate” proclaimed by so-called Islamic State (IS) three years ago.
Russia hits Islamic State in Syria with advanced cruise missiles (5 July 2017) Russian strategic bombers fired advanced cruise missiles at Islamic State targets in Syria on Wednesday from a distance of 1,000 kilometers (621.37 miles) in a show of force Moscow said demolished three ammunition depots and a command post.
Suicide blast kills two at bus station in Syria’s government-held Hama (6 July 2017) A suicide bomber in Syria’s Hama killed two people and injured nine others on Thursday, state media said, in the second such attack in a government-held city this week.
Tense calm prevails in southwest Syria before truce (8 July 2017) Opposition activists report low-level violence in Deraa one day before a new ceasefire deal takes effect.
UN envoy says Syria cease-fire generally holding (11 July 2017) The U.N.’s special envoy for Syrian peace talks on Monday said a U.S. and Russia-brokered cease-fire in the country’s southwest was generally holding despite some “teething problems,” adding he hoped it would contribute positively to talks between the government and opposition.
Syrian Observatory says it has ‘confirmed information’ that Islamic State chief is dead (11 July 2017) The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights told Reuters on Tuesday that it had “confirmed information” that Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi has been killed.
Regional and International Perspectives
A photographer’s journey into the dying center of the Islamic State (3 July, 2017) Alice Martins writes “It took Ahmed Brazu and his family 20 terrifying hours to escape this ravaged city, the capital of the Islamic State’s imagined caliphate that has become an increasingly perilous battlefield.”
Where is ‘Islamic State’ leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi? (4 July 2017) Three years ago, video emerged of the leader of so-called Islamic State (IS), Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, commanding allegiance in a sermon at the Great Mosque of al-Nuri in Mosul. The Iraqi city had been freshly captured by the jihadist group and a “caliphate” declared.
How a Syrian NGO is rebuilding destroyed parts of Idlib (4 July 2017) The Violet Organization is working to restore schools, roads, parks and public spaces in the rebel-held province.
After criticism, France’s Macron seeks to reassure Syria opposition (5 July 2017) France’s new president, Emmanuel Macron, sought to reassure opponents of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad on Wednesday after provoking concern among rebel groups by saying that he saw no legitimate successor to Assad.
Drumpf to Putin: Syrian President Assad Can’t Have Land Liberated From ISIS (6 July 2017) Little is known about exactly what President Donald Drumpf will discuss with Russian leader Vladimir Putin when the two meet for the first time on Friday. But one thing is certain to come up: the ongoing war in Syria.
When This Western Journalist Reports on Hezbollah (6 July 2017) What Sulome Anderson’s Latest Newsweek Article Reveals About the Standards of Western Journalism In The Middle East
Russia: No deal on de-escalation zones in Syria talks (6 July 2017) Russia, Turkey and Iran fail to reach an agreement in Astana on how to run the de-escalation zones, Moscow’s envoy says.
Lebanese army prosecutor orders forensic probe into Syrians’ deaths (8 July 2017) A Lebanese military prosecutor ordered forensics to examine the bodies of four Syrians who died in army custody last week following calls for an inquiry by rights groups, a judge said on Saturday.
Amid divisions with Macron, Drumpf to travel to Paris to discuss Syria, terrorism (12 July 2017) U.S. President Donald Drumpf will travel to Paris on Wednesday to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron where the two leaders will seek to work together on Syria and countering terrorism, while avoiding the thorny issues that have divided them.
Policy and Reports
Syria’s new war millionaires (1 June 2017) For those with the right connections and an appetite for risk, the war has opened up lucrative sources of revenue. For the new elite, peace would be bad for business.
Syria war: Almost 500,000 refugees return in 2017 – UN (30 June 2017) Almost 500,000 Syrians have returned to their homes this year, the UN says, describing this as a “notable trend”.
Assad appears on Syrian currency for first time (2 July 2017) President Bashar al-Assad has appeared on the Syrian currency for the first time, his portrait printed on a new 2,000-pound banknote that went into circulation on Sunday.
Former French judge to lead UN Syria war crimes probe (3 July 2017) Catherine Marchi-Uhel will head the UN body to document and prosecute serious violations of international law in Syria.
What ISIS Really Thinks About the Future (5 July 2017) Hassan Hassan writes “There is still a long way for Iraq and Syria to go before they can properly claim to have defeated the group.”
Global inquiry aims to report on Syria sarin attack by October (6 July 2017) An international inquiry aims to report by October on who was to blame for a deadly sarin gas attack in Syria in April, the head of the probe said on Thursday, as he appealed for countries to back off and stop telling investigators how to do their work.
The Maddening Maze Of Getting A Syrian Passport Abroad (6 July 2017) A Syrian passport once cost $9 and took only a few hours to issue. As the Syrian conflict enters its seventh year, Syrians in Turkey are paying up to $2,000 and waiting for months to get one of the world’s weakest passports.
Total of at least 600 civilians killed by coalition strikes in Iraq, Syria: report (7 July 2017) At least 600 civilians have been killed in strikes in Iraq and Syria by the U.S.-led coalition fighting Islamic State since the campaign began in 2014, according to a report released by the coalition on Friday.
Qatar charities and UN sign deals worth $8.5m for Syria (8 July 2017) The money will go towards aid workers on the ground in Syria through various UN agencies.
Berlin worries Drumpf’s Russia problems hampering policy (11 July 2017) Germany welcomes signs the United States is engaging with Russia on Ukraine and Syria, but worries it will struggle to play a constructive role as long as its policy aims remain confused and the furor rages on over Moscow’s role in the U.S. election, a senior German official said.
Secret Details of Drumpf-Putin Syria Cease-fire Focus on Iranian Proxies (11 July 2017) Former U.S. diplomats and observers question whether the agreement is truly enforceable, expressing doubts that Russia could act as a reliable guarantor for a cease-fire involving the Syrian regime, Iran, and its proxies.
Documentaries, Special Reports, and Other Media
How Syrian refugees battle against cancer (26 June 2017) Ammash is a four-year-old Syrian refugee living in Lebanon’s capital Beirut. He is fighting leukaemia with support from an NGO but the funds for his treatment are running out.
WhatsApp messages from Raqqa: Mama, save me (June 2017) Maha and her nearly 2-year-old son Odai are trapped in Raqqa, ISIS’ de facto capital in Syria and one of the most isolated places on Earth. When she can find a rare internet connection away from watchful eyes, Maha talks to her mother via WhatsApp voice message.
Cardigan residents’ bid to re-house Syrian refugees (9 July 2017) Communities across Wales desperate to help displaced Syrian refugees are raising money to fund the resettlement of families themselves.
They Wanted to Make it Better: Americans Killed By ISIS In Syria Wanted To Stop Islamic State (11 July 2017) The Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) announced Tuesday the deaths of three foreign volunteers, two from the U.S. and one from the U.K., amid the U.S.-backed force’s campaign to defeat the Islamic State militant group (ISIS) in its de facto capital of Raqqa, Syria.
Maps
Syrian Civil War Map A map of the Syrian civil war that shows who controls what after five years of fighting.
Syria cVDPV2 outbreak Situation Report # 3 (04 July 2017) Twenty-four (24) cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type-2 (cVDPV2) have been confirmed in Syria —22 cases are from Mayadeen (Al Mayadin) district, Deir Ez-Zor (Dayr Az Zawr) governorate, and 2 cases from Raqqa (Ar Raqqah) and Tall Abyad districts, Raqqa (Ar Raqqah) governorate. The most recent case had onset of paralysis on 28 May.
Inside Syria’s War: Arms and Resistance in Jobar (6 July 2017) The inside story of how the people of Jobar have defended their homes against the might of the Assad regime.
Arabic Links:
تعميم «أصالة»: ماذا بشأن آلاف التوقيفات الممنهجة في قضايا استهلاك المخدرات؟ (25 June 2017) This article comments on the news of the arrest of Syrian singer Assala Nasri at Beirut airport for allegedly carrying drugs.
مدنيّون فارّون من دير الزور السوريّة: الألغام تحدّد مصير حياتهم (28 June 2017) While fleeing the Islamic State, Syria’s Deir ez-Zor residents embark on a journey risking their lives while walking in minefields.
The English version of this article can be found here: Syrians brave dangers, mines to escape IS grip
ماذا يعني طرح العملة الجديدة بقيمة 2000 ليرة؟ (2 July, 2017) This article explores the reasons for issuing a new currency, a 2,000-pound with Bashar al-Assad and what does that mean for the country’s economy.
قول في القِيم الآن (2 July, 2017) Dr. Ahmad Barqawi shares his perspective about the status of “values” in the current crisis.
لن تبقى ولن تتمدّد (4 July, 2017) This is a reflection on the recent losses of ISIS and prediction of its soon end.
عملية تعبئة النشطاء السوريين: دراسة في طبيعة العلاقة الاعتمادية بين تقنيات الاتصالات الحديثة والثقافة السياسية (5 July, 2017) This study examines the role of information and communication technology in protest mobilizations in the Syrian uprising until August 2011.
شروط تركية تؤدي لتسريح مئات الموظفين السوريين من المنظمات (5 July, 2017) Turkish authorities have denied, over the past few months, to renew the work permits of hundreds of Syrian employees who work with international organizations.
جَسْر الهُوّة الرقميّة في توثيق حقوق الإنسان في سوريا (7 July, 2017) An Arabic version of “DATNAV How to navigate digital data for human rights research” is now available to help human rights professionals in the courtroom, when working with governments and journalists, and in documenting historical record.
القضاء في إدلب وريفها.. بين فض النزاعات وتعزيز سيطرة الفصائل (7 July, 2017) This article tackles the judiciary system in Idlib and its countryside and how it varies depending on the armed group dominating a particular area.
تحرير الموصل لن يكون نهاية “داعش” (8 July, 2017) History has proven that militarily defeating extremist groups such as al-Qaeda does not mean the end of their ideology, and it seems the Islamic State will not stop at the Mosul liberation.
The English version of this article can be found here: Mosul liberation will not be end of IS
أهمية حماية المقابر الجماعية في سوريا (10 July, 2017) This report discusses the discovering of new mass graves in Syria and mechanisms to allow families’ access to the graves of their loved ones.
قبل ربع قرن، مسرح صيدنايا السرّي (10 July, 2017) Malek Dagestani shares his experience in Syrian prison and how performance and theater played a role in alleviating it.
[This article is published jointly in partnership with Jadaliyya.]
بواسطة Media Roundup Editors | يونيو 19, 2017 | Media Roundups
This is a roundup of news articles and other materials circulating on Syria and reflects a wide variety of opinions. It does not reflect the views of the Editors. You may send your own recommendations for inclusion in each week’s roundup to info@SalonSyria.com by Monday night of every week.
Inside Syria
Syrian doctors plead for help, fearing the world is ‘bored’ with their conflict (13 June, 2017) A group of Syrian doctors based in rebel-held provinces said on Tuesday that aid had dropped markedly over the last two months because donors were losing interest, a factor that will make it harder for them to handle government assaults.
UN: ‘Staggering’ civilian deaths in Raqqa offensive (14 June, 2017) UN investigator says US-led air strikes on ISIL stronghold of Raqqa is causing a ‘staggering loss of civilian life’.
A Small Syrian Town’s Revolt Against Al-Qaida (15 June, 2017) Al-Qaida-linked factions have been widening their hold in the only Syrian governorate under near complete rebel control, but one small town in southern Idlib is once again rising up against extremist rule.
Red Crescent worker wounded in Damascus attack on aid convoy: ICRC (18 June, 2017) A staff worker for the Syrian Arab Red Crescent relief organization was wounded in an attack on a humanitarian convoy near Damascus, the International Committee for the Red Cross (ICRC) said in a statement on Sunday.
U.S.-Led Coalition Shoots Down Syrian Military Jet West Of Raqqa, Pentagon Says (18 June, 2017) The U.S. military says it shot down a Syrian Air Force jet that dropped bombs near U.S.-backed forces in the fight against Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria.
Iran fires missiles at militant groups in eastern Syria (18 June, 2017) Iran fired missiles on Sunday into eastern Syria, aiming at the bases of militant groups it holds responsible for attacks in Tehran which left 18 dead last week, Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported.
Regional and International Perspectives
ISIL’s discourse is more common than you think (13 June, 2017) Hassan Hassan writes “Islamist discourse provides ideological logistics to terrorists and reluctance to speak about extremism creates the space for radicals to entrench their views.”
Putin warns Gulf crisis imperils Syria peace efforts (13 June, 2017) In a phone conversation with the Saudi king, the Russian leader cautioned against anti-Qatar measures.
Amid Continued Instability, Why Are States Investing in Syria? (14 June, 2017) “Several countries have already secured investment deals in Syria in an attempt at first-mover advantage, or to occupy key economic and political sectors before others which India, Brazil, and China already have. The Syrian regime uses this motivation to its advantage in soliciting countries to rebuild its industries.”
Long Read: Israel’s Quiet Campaign to Gain a Foothold in Southern Syria (15 June, 2017) Despite its official policy of non-intervention, Israel has taken on a very proactive role in Syria, working to establish an Israel-friendly zone in Quneitra, akin to its strategy in southern Lebanon during the Lebanese civil war.
The US risks war with Iran in eastern Syria. It should focus on fighting IS elsewhere (16 June, 2017) Some in Washington hope the US can cut off Iran’s regional influence in eastern Syria, but that’s a recipe for endless war.
Saudi-Qatar crisis puts Syria rebels in tricky position (17 June, 2017) The Syrian opposition has been plagued by rivalries between Riyadh and Doha as well as weakened by Russia’s military support of Assad
Russia claims killing ISIL leader Baghdadi (18 June, 2017) Russia’s defence ministry says Baghdadi was present at an ISIL meeting in Syria that was struck by Russian air force.
Policy and Reports
Syria: Key Concerns for Raqqa Battle (13 June, 2017) The United States-led coalition, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and other local armed groups should make protecting civilians and respect for human rights a priority in the offensive to retake Raqqa from the Islamic State (also known as ISIS), Human Rights Watch said today. The offensive was announced on June 6, 2017.
The Arabic version of this article can be found here: سوريا: مخاوف إزاء معركة الرقة
Understanding What Syrian Refugees Want (13 June, 2017) An extensive survey of Syrian refugees in Turkey finds very few of them are en route to Europe. Syria Deeply spoke to one of the researchers who conducted the poll about what made Syrians flee, and what they want from the peace process and the future.
Researchers Investigate How Trust Collapsed in Syria (15 June, 2017) Trust, cooperation and shared values among Syrians have fallen sharply throughout the country since the civil war began. That’s according to a new report by the independent Syrian Center for Policy Research, which analyzed the influence of the armed conflict on social relations in the country.
The reports can be found here: Social Degradation in Syria
Syrian army declares city ceasefire as Russia, U.N. plan July peace talks (17 June, 2017) The Syrian army said it would suspend combat operations in the southern city of Deraa for 48 hours from Saturday, as mediators announced two separate attempts to convene new peace talks next month.
SyrianStudiesAssociationBulletin This link provides access to the new Syrian Studies Association Bulletin Vol 22, No 1 (2017).
The Arabic version of this article can be found here: نشرة رابطة الدراسات السورية
Documentaries, Special Reports, and Other Media
‘He survived Assad only to be killed in a tower block in London’: First victim of Grenfell fire is Syrian refugee Mohammed al-Haj Ali (15 June, 2017) The first victim of the Grenfell Tower fire has been named as Syrian refugee Mohammad al-Haj Ali, whom grieving friends say “came here for a better life” but the UK “failed him”.
Abandoned and abused: the forgotten Syrian refugee children on a Greek detention island (17 June, 2017) Stranded on Chios women and teenagers face new horrors, with reports of police beatings, rape and knife attacks
Syria’s displaced: ‘This Ramadan is full of grief’ (18 June, 2017) Displaced Syrians in Idlib are experiencing a harsh Ramadan after being evacuated from their hometowns.
Family of Syrian victim of London tower block fire allowed to come to UK (18 June, 2017) The UK Home Office says the family of Mohammed Alhajali are being granted visas for the UK on ‘compassionate grounds.’
Maps
Medical Workers Seek Accountability for Syrian Healthcare Attacks (13 June, 2017) Medical workers are monitoring attacks on healthcare facilities in Syria. Their aim is to provide data that can be used by international agencies to enforce legal protections and hold the perpetrators accountable for breaches of international law.
A U.S. aircraft has shot down a Syrian Govt. jet (18 June, 2017) Battle for Southern Al-Thawrah Area: The territorial control as of June 18, 2017.
Arabic Links:
روجدا فلات: سنهزم “داعش” حتّى في عقر داره وعاصمته (2 June, 2017) In an interview with Al-Monitor, Kurdish commander Rojda Felat, one of the leaders in the battle to retake Raqqa, shares her experience as a female fighter against the Islamic State.
The English version of this article can be found here: Meet the Kurdish woman leading battle against IS in northern Syria
راءة في تقرير (راند) “مستقبل العلاقات الطائفية في الشرق الأوسط” (8 June, 2017) Khader Zakaria provides an analysis of a new report RAND Corporation on the future of sectarian relations in the Middle East.
“داعش” خارج حلب … والنظام يوسع طريقه إليها (9 June, 2017) The Syrian regime is closing in on the Islamic State in Aleppo, while securing a foothold in Raqqa’s outskirts, where US-backed rebels launched their offensive to liberate the city.
The English version of this article can be found here: Syrian regime clears last IS bastion in Aleppo province
الغوطة الشرقيّة تستقبل شهر رمضان في ظلّ حصار خانق وظروف إنسانيّة صعبة (11 June, 2017) As the regime continues to impose its siege on eastern Ghouta, thousands of trapped residents are making do with the limited supply of food available and depending on NGOs to get them through the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
The English version of this article can be found here: Ghouta residents suffer under siege during Ramadan
لماذا لا يضرب السجناء السوريون؟ (12 June, 2017) Rateb Sha’abo provides his perspective on why Syrian prisoners do not use hunger strike for resistance.
أجواء رمضان في إدلب آخر معاقل المعارضة في شمال سوريا (12 June, 2017) Since the Syrian period lost control of Idlib in 2015, the city has become a melting pot of Ramadan traditions, as residents and refugees adapt to new lives.
The English version of this article can be found here: Syrian war has reshaped Ramadan for many
تقرير: تصدع المجتمع السوري وخسارة رأس المال الاجتماعي (15 June, 2017) This is an Arabic summary of the new report by the Syrian Center for Policy Research “Social Degradation in Syria.”
The reports can be found in Arabic here: التصدع الاجتماعي في سوريا
حشرة الجراد تشكل خطرا على الزراعة في إدلب والمعارضة تحاول مكافحتها وتشتكي من ضعف الإمكانات (15 June, 2017) A swarm of locusts have destroyed an estimated 60% of crops in Idlib province, reducing the livelihoods of thousands of residents.
The English version of this article can be found here: ‘Day of the locusts’ in Syria’s Idlib
ن الراديكالية الثورية.. هل يكرر التاريخ نفسه؟ (16 June, 2017) Mohammad Dibo reflects on revolutionary radicalism and the fallouts of the Arab Spring.
المعارضة السورية مرّة أخرى (16 June, 2017) This study reviews the types of Syrian oppositions and the possibilities of reforming it.
في شأن التعايش السوري (17 June, 2017) Rasha Omran reflects on the so-called “Syrian coexistence,” the silent majority, and sectarianism.
التمجّد والمثقف “العضوي” (17 June, 2017) Salam Al-Kawakibi reflects on Gramsci’s concept of organic intellectual and the current intellectuals’ positions in the Arab region.
[This article is published jointly in partnership with Jadaliyya.]
بواسطة Media Roundup Editors | يونيو 12, 2017 | Media Roundups
This is a roundup of news articles and other materials circulating on Syria and reflects a wide variety of opinions. It does not reflect the views of the Editors. You may send your own recommendations for inclusion in each week’s roundup to info@SalonSyria.com by Monday night of every week.
Inside Syria
U.S.-led coalition strike kills founder of Islamic State media outlet: brother (31 May, 2017) An air strike by the U.S.-led coalition has killed the founder of the Islamic State propaganda media outlet Amaq in the eastern Syrian province of Deir al-Zor, his brother said in a Facebook post on Wednesday.
U.S. hikes ‘combat power’ in Syria, with eye on Iran-backed militia (1 June, 2017) The U.S. military said on Thursday it had bolstered its “combat power” in southern Syria, warning that it viewed Iran-backed fighters in the area as a threat to nearby coalition troops fighting Islamic State.
Syria’s Assad says six-year war’s ‘worst is behind us’ (3 June, 2017) Syrian leader repeats previous denials of responsibility for alleged chemical weapons attack on rebel-held town
Syrian army advances against Islamic State in Aleppo province: state media, monitor (4 June, 2017) The Syrian army and allied forces captured the last major town held by Islamic State in Aleppo province on Sunday, state media and a war monitoring group said.
Syrian army plane downed near Damascus say rebels (5 June, 2017) Rebels say they hit the aircraft with anti-aircraft machine guns which had been delivered to them in recent weeks by the US.
SDF launch major offensive to capture ISIL-held Raqqa (6 June, 2017) US-backed rebels push for ISIL’s de facto capital in Syria as government forces pound the southern city of Deraa.
After warnings, U.S. wages new strike on pro-Syria government forces (6 June, 2017) The United States launched an air strike on Tuesday against Iranian-backed fighters who it said posed a threat to U.S. and U.S.-backed forces in southern Syria, in a new escalation of tensions between Washington and troops supporting Damascus.
U.S.-backed forces seize Raqqa ruins; U.N. sees ‘dire’ situation (7 June, 2017) U.S.-backed Syrian forces aiming to oust Islamic State from its Syrian stronghold Raqqa captured a ruined fortress on the edge of the city on Wednesday and a U.S. coalition official said the attack was set to accelerate.
How do trapped Syrians tackle fuel shortages? (8 June, 2017) Besieged residents of Eastern Ghouta managed to find new ways of extracting crucial and basic resources for energy.
US warplane ‘shoots down’ armed drone in Syria (9 June, 2017) An American F-15 jet shot down a pro-regime drone near a base near the Jordanian border, coalition spokesman says.
US-backed forces enter western Raqqa (10 June, 2017) Syrian Democratic Forces have pierced the west of the city, opening up a new front against Islamic State.
US-backed Syrian fighters seize parts of Isis ‘capital’ Raqqa (11 June, 2017) Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces said they captured neighbourhood of Romaniah after two days of fighting
Regional and International Perspectives
How much is Iran paying for Assad’s foreign fighters? (31 May, 2017) The Assad regime has reportedly asked Tehran to foot the whole bill for tens of thousands of Shia militiamen.
Pro-Assad alliance threatens to hit U.S. positions in Syria (7 June, 2017) A military alliance fighting in support of President Bashar al-Assad threatened on Wednesday to hit U.S. positions in Syria, warning its “self-restraint” over U.S. air strikes would end if Washington crossed “red lines”.
Analysis: U.S.-Brokered Deal Aims to Ease Tension Between FSA and Kurds (7 June, 2017) The move to arm the Kurds is a sign that the U.S. is beginning to deal with the complications of its anti-ISIS policy in Syria, writes Chatham House fellow Haid Haid. However, some Syrian analysts think it’s too little too late.
Analysis: Euphrates Fight May Beat ISIS Militarily, But Not Ideologically (8 June, 2017) As U.S. and Iran escalate their battle against ISIS in eastern Syria and western Iraq, no one is thinking about the fate of local communities after the militant group’s potential military defeat, writes journalist Lorenzo Trombetta.
The art of the hedge: Jordan between Washington, Riyadh and Doha (8 June, 2017) For Jordan it is not clear that backing the Saudi-led isolation of Qatar is in its interests. Since Drumpf took office, Amman has lost its place in the regional order.
U.S.-led forces appear to be using white phosphorus in populated areas in Iraq and Syria (9 June, 2017) Thomas Gibbons-Neff writes: “The U.S.-led coalition in Iraq and Syria appears to have used white phosphorus-loaded munitions on at least two occasions in densely populated areas of Mosul and in the Islamic State’s de facto capital of Raqqa, according to videos posted online and human rights groups.”
Beyond Raqqa, an Even Bigger Battle to Defeat ISIS and Control Syria Looms (10 June, 2017) Anne Barnard writes “American-backed forces have begun an assault on Raqqa, the Islamic State’s hub in northern Syria, and signs are that they could capture the long-sought target with relative ease. Yet the militant group’s commanders, who have already withdrawn their toughest forces from the city, and most everyone else in Syria’s multifaceted war are looking ahead to an even more decisive battle in the south.”
Policy and Reports
The complex battle for control in eastern Syria (30 May, 2017) Ever since a deal was struck in the Kazakh capital of Astana early this month to de-escalate the conflict in western Syria, all eyes have been turning east. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his allies have just launched an operation to “take control of the eastern desert in Syria”. It is not just about driving out the Sunni extremist group known as the Islamic State, but also about preventing other rivals from filling the void.
The Arabic version of this article can be found here: المعركة المعقدة للسيطرة على شرق سوريا
No Syrian ‘Marshall Plan’ but rather protracted war: Red Cross (2 June, 2017) Syria is unlikely to see a major “Marshall Plan” for reconstruction as peace remains elusive despite hundreds of thousands more civilians possibly returning to their homes, the International Committee of the Red Cross said on Friday.
‘484 civilians killed’ in US-led attacks against ISIL (3 June, 2017) US military reports 484 civilian deaths by US-led coalition attacks, but outside monitors put the number much higher.
Arabic press review: Assad decided to use chemical weapons in 2009 (5 June, 2017) News site says Syrian government decided to use lethal gas in the event of any protests inside the country
Raqqa civilians face mines, snipers, use as human shields: IRC (6 June, 2017) Civilians trapped in the Syrian city of Raqqa risk being killed by Islamic State snipers or mines if they try to flee but could be used by the militants as human shields if they remain, a leading humanitarian aid organization said on Tuesday.
U.S. says Syria bombing was legal; rights group disputes findings (7 June, 2017) A U.S. military investigator said on Wednesday that a March 16 air strike near Aleppo, Syria, was a valid and legal attack on a meeting of al Qaeda fighters and did not kill dozens of civilians as reported, a finding disputed by Human Rights Watch.
Polio outbreak in Syria poses vaccination dilemma for WHO (9 June, 2017) Vaccinating too few children in Syria against polio because the six-year-old war there makes it difficult to reach them risks causing more cases in the future, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday, posing a dilemma after a recent outbreak.
U.S., Russia discuss de-escalation zone for southwest Syria: diplomats (9 June, 2017) The United States and Russia are quietly holding talks on creating a “de-escalation zone” in southwestern Syria, Western diplomats and regional officials said, but could face fierce opposition from Iran.
More than 40,000 children in the line of fire in Ar-Raqqa as fighting intensifies (9 June, 2017) “Heavy violence in the city of Ar-Raqqa is threatening the lives of children. UNICEF has received alarming reports that at least 25 children were killed and scores injured in Ar-Raqqa city.
Documentaries, Special Reports, and Other Media
Beauty amid the chaos: a snapshot of Syrian cities through Instagram (2 June, 2017) Photographers from Damascus to Aleppo are showing another side to their war-torn cities through Instagram. We speak to six Syrians about why some focus on destruction, and others on hope.
Algeria agrees to take Syrians trapped near Morocco border (2 June, 2017) A group of 41 refugees, including a pregnant woman, have been stuck in the desert frontier area since mid-April.
Austrian court jails parents who took children to live under IS in Syria (2 June, 2017) Children had to watch gruesome execution videos for initiation and one boy was even present at beheading.
From Classroom to Walmart Night Shift, a Syrian’s Battle for a Degree (5 June, 2017) Zainab Abdo was once held at gunpoint on her way to take her school exams in Aleppo. Now resettled in the U.S., she is among nearly 100,000 university-qualified Syrians worldwide who have been stopped from attaining higher education.
Aleppo’s ‘boy in the ambulance’, Omran Daqneesh, safe and well in newly emerged footage (6 June, 2017) Little boy who epitomised the hell of Russian-backed Syrian government bombing of rebel-held East Aleppo appears in good health and is now living in regime-held territory
The Life and Death of One of Syria’s Most Beloved Minesweepers (6 June, 2017) Abu al Fadl devoted the final months of his life to clearing al-Bab of improvised explosives left behind by ISIS in everything from washing machines to cooking pots. The 60-year-old destroyed roughly 3,500 mines before one took his life.
This is for Syria! (6 June, 2017) Omar Imady wonders “How does killing an eight-year-old girl at a concert in Manchester help my wounded country heal? How does it help the young women and men of Syria who marched for freedom and dignity attain these objectives?”
Journalists Challenge Syrian Media to Improve Gender Coverage in War (7 June, 2017) The Syrian Female Journalists’ Network was founded to ensure better coverage of gender issues and better representation of women in newsrooms in the midst of the country’s protracted conflict. Milia Eidmouni tells News Deeply how they do it.
More Scholarships for Syrians, But Many Fail to Meet Refugees’ Needs (7 June, 2017) Though the number of higher-education scholarships for Syrian students is growing, the expansion cannot meet demand and many do not offer appropriate fields of study, location or support for refugees in Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey, Rasha Faek reports for Al-Fanar Media.
Top Human Rights Tweets of the Week (9 June, 2017) “Saudi Arabia wave $100M to Ivanka’s ‘female Entrepreneurs fund’ but has not given refugee status to a single Syrian.”
Sebastian Junger’s New Documentary About Syria (10 June, 2017) At the center of the extraordinary new documentary “Hell on Earth: The Fall of Syria and the Rise of isis,” débuting this Sunday, at 9 p.m., on National Geographic, a Syrian family tries to make sense of the disaster that has overtaken it.
Maps
Growing Risk of International Confrontation in the Syrian Desert (26 May, 2017) Various players have been rushing to secure their spot in former Islamic State strongholds that will be strategically important to the next phase of the war.
The Arabic version of this article can be found here: تنامي خطر اندلاع مواجهة دولية في البادية السورية
Syrian soldiers push through ISIL, ‘reach Iraqi border’ (10 June, 2017) State media says government soldiers and allied forces reach border area for first time since 2015.
Arabic Links:
كرة القدم في حلب.. ضوء على مناورات النظام السياسية (May 30, 2017) Karim Zidan writes about the politicization of football in Aleppo reflecting on the returns of this game to the city earlier this year after five years of war.
قراءات في الحركة الإسلامية في الحرب السورية Tariq Azizah analyzes the Islamic Movement in the Syrian War and the debate between “Militarization” and “Islamization.”
مسلسلات بالجملة خارج الموسم: الدراما السورية…. بداية النهاية؟ (June 2, 2017) Wissam Cana’an discusses the effects of war on the production, distribution, and quality of Syrian television drama.
فيلم ضائع في لبنان.. عناءات اللجوء وأحلام العودة (June 8, 2017) Lost in Lebanon is a film that covers over a year in Lebanon and the Syrian borders and tells the story behind the news reports and reflects the strange chaotic lives of the people living in the shadow of the Syrian war.
The trailer of this film can be found here: Lost in Lebanon trailer
حرب حزيران 1967 This link provides access to three pieces by Marwan Habash, the former Ba’athist Minister of Industry in 1967, who recounts the causes and consequences of the Six-Days War on the occasion of the 50s anniversary of the Six-Days War and the defeat of Arab.
مسلسل الرَّقة الطويل في اللقطة شبه الأخيرة (June 9, 2017) The Battle of Raqqa is a crucial event for both ISIS and the Syrian Democratic Forces and its reputation.
المطبخ السوري حدث هام في كندا (June 10, 2017) A Syrian kitchen project by seven Syrian refugee women draws a lot of attention in Vancouver.
تطييف لا طوائف ولا طائفية (June 10, 2017) Yasin Al Haj Saleh reviews the book “Sectarianization: Mapping the New Politics of the Middle East” edited by Nader Hashemi and Danny Postel.
تركيا:لاجئون سوريون يتوجهون نحو”سورية” لقضاء عطلة عيد الفطر (June 10, 2017) Some Syrian refugees head back towards “Syria” from Turkey to spend the holiday of Eid al-Fitr.
قوات “القتال” في سوريا لتدمير الثورة (June 12, 2017) Salameh Kaileh defends the origins of the Syrian revolution and the consequences discourse of Shīʿah/Sunni conflict.
[This article is published jointly in partnership with Jadaliyya.]
بواسطة Media Roundup Editors | مايو 29, 2017 | Media Roundups
This is a roundup of news articles and other materials circulating on Syria and reflects a wide variety of opinions. It does not reflect the views of the Editors. You may send your own recommendations for inclusion in each week’s roundup to info@SalonSyria.com by Monday night of every week.
Inside Syria
Pro-regime forces advance toward base in Syrian desert as US warns: Coalition will ‘defend’ itself (22 May, 2017) Pro-regime forces in the eastern Syrian desert are advancing towards a coalition base near the Iraqi-Syrian border, while a US military spokesperson tells Syria Direct that the American-led forces will “defend themselves” from any further encroachment.
Syria: Suicide car bombs hit Homs city, Damascus suburb (23 May, 2017) At least four people are reported dead after a car bomb goes off in Homs, as a second explosion hits a Damascus suburb.
U.S., Russia military increase communication in skies over Syria (24 May, 2017) The United States and Russia have increased communication to avoid warplane accidents in the skies over Syria as Islamic State militants lose territory and the air space becomes more crowded.
Inside Syria: How life goes on in a besieged town (24 May, 2017) Civilians in Erbin, one of Eastern Ghouta’s besieged communities, live with no water, electricity or public services.
Syrian army says senior Islamic State militant killed (24 May, 2017) The Syrian army said on Wednesday it had killed Islamic State’s military commander in Syria during operations in the north of the country, where the Russian-backed government forces are seizing more territory back from the jihadist group.
US-led strikes kill 35 civilians in east Syria: monitor (25 May, 2017) US-led strikes kill 35 in east Syria, just days after monitor reports highest monthly civilian death toll for coalition.
Syrian army advances south toward rebel-held area (26 May, 2017) The Syrian army said it had retaken a swathe of territory from Islamic State in southern Syria on Thursday in a rapid advance near areas held by U.S.-backed Syrian rebels at the border with Jordan and Iraq.
Iraq’s Iran-backed paramilitary advances toward Syria border (28 May, 2017) Iraq’s Iran-backed Shi’ite paramilitary force said on Sunday it had dislodged Islamic State from a number of villages west of Mosul, scoring further progress toward the border with Syria.
Regional and International Perspectives
Syrians roll back extremism in Idlib without military intervention (23 May, 2017) “In Idlib City, ordinary citizens have shown that they are capable of managing their civil affairs, alleviating suffering at the local level and rolling back extremism by themselves.”
Intrepid Sisters Reveal How ISIS Depends on Role of Women (26 May, 2017) Two forensic social workers who visit Lebanon’s notorious Roumieh prison gained a rare insight through inmates into the activity of female ISIS supporters, whose roles go far beyond that of wives.
How Manchester bomber Salman Abedi was radicalised by his links to Libya (28 May, 2017) The 22-year-old was influenced in part by the people who formed the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group, a little-known al-Qaida affiliate outlawed in 2004.
Policy and Reports
Jordan has ‘hit limit’ hosting Syrian refugees (22 May, 2017) Jordan said Monday it has hit the limit of its ability to host Syrian refugees as Washington’s United Nations envoy Nikki Haley visited on her first overseas trip.
France says not planning to reopen embassy in Syria (23 May, 2017) France’s foreign ministry said on Monday that the reopening of its embassy in Syria was not on the table, signaling there may be no fundamental change to Paris’ approach to the Syrian conflict under new president Emmanuel Macron.
Syrian refugee crisis: All your questions answered (25 May, 2017) More than five million people have fled Syria since the conflict began, and half of them are children.
U.S. Quietly Lifts Limit on Number of Refugees Allowed In (26 May, 2017) Despite repeated efforts by President Drumpf to curtail refugee resettlements, the State Department this week quietly lifted the department’s restriction on the number of refugees allowed to enter the United States.
Revived U.S. role in Syria offers opportunity for G7: French diplomat (26 May, 2017) The United States’ reengagement in Syria’s war gives impetus to the Group of Seven nations to find a political solution to a conflict going on now for over six years, a senior French diplomat said on Friday.
Executive Summary for May 26th (26 May, 2017) Syria Deeply review the key developments in Syria, including business as usual at the airfield that was attacked by U.S. forces last month, more claims of civilian casualties from coalition airstrikes, and assertions that the Manchester bomber did not travel to Syria, despite claims by British intelligence officers.
Documentaries, Special Reports, and Other Media
ISIS claims deadly Manchester attack at Ariana Grande concert (23 May, 2017) At least 22 people, including children, have been killed in a blast at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, in the deadliest terror attack on British soil since the 2005 London bombings.
War through Syrian eyes (25 May, 2017) In their own words, Syrian photographers reflect on the images that moved them most
Surgeons in Lebanon offer hope to wounded Syrian refugees (26 May, 2017) Six operations have failed to cure the constant pain that Ismael Moustafa suffers since he was wounded in an airstrike on his village in Syria three years ago.
Spring Reign review – rough and ready account of the Syrian conflict (26 May, 2017) Inspired by testimony from refugees, aid workers and journalists, Rob Johnston’s drama homes in on the streets of Aleppo
Maps
Searching for Syria (May 21, 2017) Exploring the world’s top questions about the Syrian refugee crisis. A project from UNHCR in partnership with Google.
Who and where are the Kurds? (23 May, 2017) One of the world’s largest stateless people that reside primarily in mountainous regions of Iran, Iraq, Syria and Turkey.
Syria Crisis: Ar-Raqqa Situation Report No. 6 (as of 23 May 2017) SDF advances east and west of Ar-Raqqa city resulted in the displacement of over 20,000 people bringing the total number of IDPs tracked since November 2016 to almost 200,000.
Arabic Links
دار الأيتام في إعزاز ترعى مئات الأطفال السوريّين الذين فقدوا أسرهم بسبب الحرب وتطمح إلى استيعاب المزيد وتطوير خدماتها (May 17, 2017) An orphanage in Azaz, near Aleppo and the Turkish border, serves hundreds of Syrian children who lost their families in the ongoing war.
The English version of this article can be found here: Syrian orphanages overcrowded with children traumatized by war
بلاد لا ينبت القتلى في صباحاتها (May 18, 2017) Widad Nabi shares her story of crossing Bab al-Salameh border checkpoint and the feelings and thoughts she encounters from that experience.
رسم خطط إعادة الإعمار في سوريا (May 22, 2017) Although an end to Syria’s conflict is not in sight, plans for reconstruction projects by the Syrian regime and international aid organizations are underway.
The English version of this article can be found here: Syria’s reconstruction plans take shape
ديما بياعة أولى الفنانين السوريين الداعمين لحقوق المثليين (May 22, 2017) Dima Bayaa is the first Syrian artist to support gay rights publicly.
أسس لمشروع وطني سوري (May 22, 2017) Hussein Ghrer shares his perspective on what a national project to rebuild Syria could look like.
في مراجعة السنوات السورية الست (May 22, 2017) Rateb Sha’abo argues that the military tyranny in the Syrian conflict became more important that any political positions resulting in marginalizing any possible political solutions.
عن حديث نهايات الثورة السورية (May 23, 2017) Ammar Daioub argues that Syrian revolution will not end until its causes end.
الإعلام… المعركة التي ربحها النظام مبكرًا (May 25, 2017) Azam Amin argues that the Syrian government official media discourse has won the media war in the Syrian conflict.
أكاديميون وباحثون روس وسوريون يتوافقون على أسس للحل في سورية (May 25, 2017) This report is about a meeting between Syrians and Russians intellectuals who met in Moscow recently about political solution for the Syrian conflict.
[This article is published jointly in partnership with Jadaliyya.]
