بواسطة Media Roundup Editors | أغسطس 1, 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
Deadly ambush near Damascus hits pro-Assad forces (20 July 2017) Firefight in village east of Damascus comes as clashes between two anti-government factions continue in Idlib province.
Hezbollah makes gains in Syria-Lebanon border assault (22 July 2017) Pro-Assad forces capture several strategic hills on second day of assault to drive rebels from the border, say reports.
Russia: New ceasefire deal agreed in Syria’s Ghouta (22 July 2017) Besieged Eastern Ghouta near Damascus is one of the last strongholds of rebels fighting Bashar al-Assad’s forces.
Syrian warplanes strike near Damascus despite ceasefire: Syrian Observatory (23 July 2017) Syrian government warplanes carried out several air strikes in the Eastern Ghouta area east of Damascus on Sunday, a day after the Syrian military declared a cessation of hostilities in the area, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.
Syrian army, allies advance against Islamic State east of Raqqa (23 July 2017) Syrian government forces and their allies have recaptured territory from Islamic State in countryside southeast of its stronghold Raqqa after air strikes in the area, a pro-Damascus military media unit and war monitors reported.
Hay’et Tahrir al-Sham take control of Syria’s Idlib (23 July 2017) Group formerly linked to al-Qaeda affiliate consolidates grip on Idlib as main rival rebels Ahrar al-Sham withdraw.
‘There Are Many Other Kids Here’: Child Tells of Labor in Syria (24 July 2017) The economic strain of Syria’s six-year civil war has encouraged hidden forms of child labor, as an increasing number of youngsters take up work in dim factory buildings, dusty workshops and in the dingy backrooms of Damascene cafes.
Syria says U.S. halting aid to rebels is step toward ending war (25 July 2017) Syria views a U.S. decision to halt CIA support to rebel groups fighting to topple President Bashar al-Assad as a “start” toward ending the six-year conflict, a government minister told Reuters.
Against all odds, village republics take hold in Syria (25 July 2017) Syrians are practising democracy and building their own institutions in the most difficult of circumstances, writes Robin Yassin-Kassab.
Militants stifle civil society in Syria’s Idlib (26 July, 2017) Civil society groups in Syria’s Idlib are doing what they can to provide aid to about 1 million citizens, despite pressure by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an al-Qaeda-linked group that is trying to impose its own presence in the province.
Eyeing Deir al-Zor, Syrian army advances on Islamic State town (27 July 2017) Syrian government forces are nearing the last major town held by Islamic State (IS) in Homs province, part of their multi-pronged advance toward the jihadist group’s strongholds in the east of the country, a military source said on Thursday.
Coalition airstrikes ‘kill founder of Isis Amaq news agency’ and other senior media figures (27 July 2017) The US-led coalition fighting Isis has announced the death of the founder of the Amaq news agency, a crucial propaganda media arm of the extremist group.
Hezbollah and rebels agree ceasefire at Lebanese-Syrian border (27 July 2017) A ceasefire took effect on Thursday in a mountainous area of the Lebanese-Syrian border where Lebanon’s Hezbollah says it is on the verge of defeating Nusra Front militants in their last foothold at the frontier.
Assad troops enter ISIL-held town of al-Sukhna in Homs (28 July 2017) Monitor reports artillery and rocket firing at ISIL positions in lead-up to entry into southwestern part of al-Sukhna.
Thousands to be evacuated from Lebanon-Syria border (31 July 2017) Under a deal between Hezbollah and Syrian opposition groups, 9,000 fighters and their relatives will return to Syria.
Russia holds first ever military parade in Syria (31 July 2017) Navy Day marked with show of military might in St Petersburg, Crimea and Tartous in Syria, where Moscow has just cemented its military presence in deal with Syrian government.
Regional and International Perspectives
The post-IS proxy war (18 July 2017) Vijay Prashad writes that the defeat of the Islamic State is inevitable. But the next conflict has already begun, with Iran in the gunsights of U.S.
Many foreign fighters likely to stay in Syria, Iraq: U.S. official (21 July 2017) In a new assessment, the U.S. intelligence community judges that large numbers of foreigners fighting for Islamic State in Iraq and Syria likely will stay to defend what is left of their self-declared caliphate rather than return to their homelands, a top U.S. counter-terrorism official said on Friday.
Russia not reason for U.S. ending CIA arms to Syria rebels: general (21 July 2017) A U.S. decision to halt a CIA program equipping and training certain rebel groups fighting the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was not done as a concession to Assad ally Russia, a top U.S. general said on Friday.
Drumpf says Assad won’t get away with ‘horrible’ crimes (25 July 2017) Drumpf also called Hezbollah a ‘menace’ to the Middle East during a joint press conference with Lebanon’s PM Saad Hariri.
Mission Impossible? Investigating the Khan Sheikhoun Nerve Gas Attack in Syria (25 July 2017) Aron Lund writes “the Khan Sheikhoun investigation matters, because the use of chemical weapons resonates far outside of Syria. Challenges to the global norm against gas warfare tend to provoke international responses in ways that the daily churn of conventional war crimes in Syria do not, and the past four years of peacemaking and great-power diplomacy were strongly influenced by the disputes over Assad’s chemical weapons program.”
The story of Hayat Tahrir Al Sham’s rise to prominence and what it means for Syria (26 July 2017) Hassan Hassa writes “Jabhat Fateh Al Sham, as it was renamed, moved towards a consolidation of its influence in rebel-held areas in the north west. It sought to do so by leading a consortium of rebel factions to break the siege in Aleppo, which it briefly managed to do. The momentum was short-lived and the regime reimposed the siege and, in December, expelled the rebels from eastern Aleppo.”
Can refugees return to Syria, as many want them to? (30 July, 2017) Countries want Syrian refugees to go back, but have they done anything to stop the Assad regime creating more refugees?
Blaming the Victims (31 July, 2017) Syrian refugees in Lebanon are increasingly being manipulated to satisfy geopolitical agendas.
With an eye on Iran, US welcomes Moqtada Al Sadr visit to Saudi Arabia (31 July, 2017) Iraqi cleric’s meeting with crown prince boosts his standing and helps kingdom in countering Iran’s expansionism, former US ambassador to Baghdad says.
New Dangers Stalk Syrian Children Still Haunted by Horrors Under ISIS (31 July, 2017) Somini Sengupta and Hwaida Saad writes: “The boy did not want to see a beheading, so he held his mother’s hand tight and tried to close his eyes. But seeing it was mandatory when the Islamic State ruled his hometown in northern Syria: If you were out on the street, you had to watch.”
Policy and Reports
The Role of Jihadi Movements in Syrian Local Governance (14 July 2017) Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), exemplifies how international extremist jihadi organizations, such as Al Qaeda, have evolved in Syria. Informed by the experiences of Al Qaeda and other jihadi groups in Iraq, HTS has developed a governance strategy that depends on building support from the local Syrian population.
Reverse Moralism and the Response to the Syrian Refugee Crisis (20 July 2017) Filippo Dionigi writes: “Non-refoulement is a well-recognized principle of customary international law that forbids the forced deportation of refugees and asylum seekers to their country of origin.”
‘Drumpf ends CIA support for anti-Assad Syria rebels’ (20 July 2017) US president phasing out agency’s programme to arm and train groups in order to get closer to Russia, say US officials.
After Syria sarin attack, doctors train to treat chemical weapons victims (21 July 2017) Wearing chemical suits and gasmasks, Syrian doctors rush to a house where white smoke wafts over a group of people choking and coughing, some calling out for help.
Bringing facts back to Lebanon’s refugee conversation (26 July 2017) Beirut-based professor has launched campaign to challenge misperceptions in the online discussion about Syrian refugees.
U.S. pledges extra $140 million to Lebanon for Syrian refugees (26 July 2017) The United States will give Lebanon an extra $140 million to help Syrian refugees and the communities hosting them, the State Department said during a U.S. state visit by Lebanon’s Prime Minister.
Extremists Go From Mosul To The Mountains (27 July 2017) Having been driven out of Mosul, the extremist Islamic State group is doing what Al Qaeda did before them: setting up new bases in the rugged northern Hamrin mountain area.
Arsal: Hezbollah, Jabhat Fateh al-Sham agree ceasefire (27 July 2017) Group ‘close to military victory’ calls truce with Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, whose fighters will reportedly return to Syria.
Russia to stay in Syria for another half a century as Putin signs air base deal with Assad regime (27 July 2017) The base helped Russia turn the tide of the civil war in favor of the Syrian regime.
Syrian refugees rejected because of links to group that opposes brutal Assad regime (30 July 2017) The U.S. and more than 80 other countries have recognized the Syrian coalition group as legitimate.
Documentaries, Special Reports, and Other Media
Syria Retold (11 July 2017) Chuck Mertz interviews Middle East politics professor Wendy Pearlman the author of We Crossed a Bridge and it Trembled: Voices from Syria.
Syrian refugees rebuild their lives in Istanbul (21 July 2017) Since the outbreak of Syria’s war in 2011, Turkey has welcomed more than three million Syrian refugees.
Hani al-Moliya: Legally Blind, Photographer, Refugee (23 July 2017) A photographer from Homs becomes a youth leader after his photos of life in a refugee camp are noticed in Canada.
What’s Next in Idlib? (24 July, 2017) The Century Foundation’s Sam Heller discusses the complexities of a governorate that continues to evade regime control.
The Arabic version of this article can be found here: ما الخطوة التالية في إدلب؟
Refugees: Between worlds in Israel, Turkey and Greece (25 July, 2017) Short docs about an Eritrean boarding school in Israel, refugee children in Turkey and a hotel-turned-squat in Greece.
Meet the LGBT anarchists who’ve gone to Syria to fight Isis (25 July, 2017) Fighters in the world’s first LGBT military unit tell The Independent the time has come to ‘announce our existence to people and governments who claim we do not exist’
Devastating fires in refugee camps highlight dangerous conditions Syrians in Lebanon are forced to live in (25 July, 2017) Expired fire extinguishers and haphazard construction contributed to recent blazes which killed two children and left 1,400 homeless.
Women raped daily by Isis are so damaged they are falling into deep sleeps and not getting up (28 July, 2017) ‘This is what they have done to our people,’ says Khalid Taalo, whose niece was captured.
Syrian comedy troupe’s brand of satire fails to amuse Assad government (30 July, 2017) Abby Sewell write “Every time he gets the chance, Ayham Hilal, an Internet cafe proprietor in the Syrian city of Saraqeb, squeezes into a small community center with about 200 fellow theatergoers and loses himself in a comedy show.”
Life after ISIL: Mosul musicians emerge from the shadows (31 July, 2017) Many musicians who lived under ISIL rule hid or destroyed their instruments and did not play for the three years that ISIL, or the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant group, controlled the city. But now they have begun to perform again.
Syrian refugee family featured in ‘lost family portrait’ find missing daughter in Turkey (31 July, 2017) Missing eldest daughter discovered safe and well in Istanbul is now hoping to get a passport in order to be reunited with her family
Clooneys to help 3,000 Syrian refugees go to school in Lebanon (31 July, 2017) George and Amal Clooney said on Monday they would help 3,000 Syrian refugee children go to school this year in Lebanon, where the United Nations says 200,000 children are not receiving an education after fleeing the war in neighboring Syria.
Maps
Aid credibility at stake as donors haggle over reporting rules (21 July, 2017) The world’s rich countries spend billions at home but report it as “aid”, exploiting a loophole that enables donors to mislead the public and cut vital development budgets. IRIN has dug into the data to reveal the worst offenders and the extent of a practice that topped $15 billion last year, seriously undermining the credibility of aid statistics.
Turkey | Syria: Developments in North-western Syria (as of 30 July 2017) From 19 – 25 July, infighting among non-state armed groups (NSAGs) disrupted the provision of humanitarian services in northwestern Syria.
Arabic Links
حلبة الشرق الأوسطMichael Young interviews journalist Ibrahim Hamidi on how the conflict over Syria’s borders is being shaped by outside powers.
The English version of this article can be found here: The Middle East’s Playing Field
وفيات وادعاءات بتعذيب سوريين في عهدة الجيش اللبنانيHuman Rights Watch said that Lebanese authorities should conduct an independent, thorough, and transparent investigation into the deaths of Syrians in military custody and allegations of torture and ill-treatment in detention.
The English version of this article can be found here: Lebanon: Deaths, Alleged Torture of Syrians in Army Custody
مصرف سورية المركزيّ يصدر فئة جديدة من العملة الورقيّة بقيمة 2000 ليرة سوريّةSyria has issued a new 2,000-pound banknote sporting the face of President Bashar al-Assad; not surprisingly, the opposition refuses to use it.
The English version of this article can be found here: New Syrian banknote may be more than meets the eye
«خرافة» إعادة إعمار سوريةRadwan Ziadeh describes the efforts of rebuilding Syria as a myth and outlines his personal rationale for this description.
إجابات ذاتية جدا على أسئلة الحرب والكتابةUday Al Zoubi shares his personal experience in relation to questions on war and writing.
سياسات النزاعJihad Yazigi discusses diplomacy in Syria, Iran’s aims, and whether the Assad regime still matters.
The English version of this article can be found here: The Politics of Conflict
العودة إلى دمشق من جمر النار إلى الجحيم Samira Al-Masalmah reflects on the recent wave of racist calls in Lebanon asking Syrian refugees to go back home.
إعفاء رئيسة مجلس الشعب من منصبها Hadiya Khalaf Abbas was exempt from her position as the head of the People’s Council of Syria.
زوجة الأسد تظهر في فيلم دعائي جديد Asma al-Assad will appear in a new film that promotes the Syrian regime narratives.
عملة سورية فوتوشوب..والمركزي يوضح Central Bank of Syria denies that new metal coins (50 and 100 Syrian pounds) will be issued.
هل ستقبل إسرائيل في نهاية المطاف بالاتفاق الأميركي- الروسي حول جنوب سورية؟ A regular survey of experts on matters relating to Middle Eastern and North African politics and security.
The English version of this article can be found here: Will Israel eventually accept the U.S.-Russian agreement over southern Syria?
الفيدرالية الكردية تضم 3 أقاليم و6 مقاطعات… و«الرقة رهن التحرير»This article provides updates on Kurdish federalism in north Syria and how the new electoral law and administrative divisions allow stateless people to run for election.
[This article is published jointly in partnership with Jadaliyya.]
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 28, 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
Air strikes pound southwest Syrian city of Deraa (20 June, 2017) Government air and artillery bombardments hit rebel-held areas of the Syrian city of Deraa, on the border with Jordan, on Tuesday after a two-day ceasefire expired, witnesses, rebels and the army said.
US shoots down ‘Iranian-made’ drone in Syria (21 June, 2017) Pentagon declined to speculate on who was operating it but said drone advanced on coalition forces in Syria’s southeast.
Syria as we know it is over (21 June, 2017) “It is unreasonable to talk about the Syria we once knew; its geography and demographics have been forever changed by the relentless brutality taking place across the country.”
U.S. Sends Civilian Team to Syria to Help the Displaced Return Home (22 June, 2017) The Drumpf administration is sending a civilian team into Syria to try to bring stability to areas that American-backed forces have retaken from the Islamic State and to avert a humanitarian crisis, according to United States officials.
I Fled the Islamic State’s ‘Caliphate’ in Raqqa — But Fear Its Liberators (23 June, 2017) Marwan Hisham writes “The Arab residents of my hometown are trading their jihadi tormentors for Kurdish rulers they don’t entirely trust.”
Amnesty declared for 83 ISIL members in Syria’s Raqqa (24 June, 2017) Low-ranking fighters are pardoned as they do not have blood on their hands, the Raqqa Civil Council says.
Syria says Israel strike kills civilians (24 June, 2017) Israel said on Saturday it had targeted Syrian military installations after shells landed in the occupied Golan Heights but a Syrian military source said the Israeli strikes killed some civilians.
Deadly car bombing kills Syrian civilians in Idlib (25 June, 2017) Attack in country’s northwest comes as Assad government announces release of 672 detainees from Damascus prison.
Regional and International Perspectives
White House says it retains right to self-defense in Syria; Moscow warns Washington (19 June, 2017) The White House said on Monday that coalition forces fighting Islamic State militants in Syria retained the right to self-defense as Russia warned it viewed any planes flying in its area of operations as potential targets.
Eyeing Syria conflict, France courts Russia after previous tough ties (20 June, 2017) France’s Foreign Minister pushed for closer co-operation with Russia on Tuesday, especially over Syria, and said relations could be driven by a renewed “spirit of trust”.
U.S. on collision course with Syria and Iran once de facto Islamic State capital falls (21 June, 2017) Karen DeYoung and Greg Jaffe write: “Drumpf administration officials, anticipating the defeat of the Islamic State in its de facto Syrian capital of Raqqa, are planning for what they see as the next stage of the war, a complex fight that will bring them into direct conflict with Syrian government and Iranian forces contesting control of a vast desert stretch in the eastern part of the country.”
The looming question of Kurdish independence in Iraq (21 June, 2017) A Kurdish vote on independence in northern Iraq could be felt across the region at large.
France’s Macron Shifts Country’s Stance on Removing Assad From Power (22 June, 2017) Mr. Macron’s remarks could spark debate within Europe about the bloc’s stance on the Syrian conflict.
In Apocalyptic Vandalism, ISIL blows up 800-year-old Nuri Mosque in Mosul (22 June, 2017) Juan Cole writes “We are seeing the slow destruction of Daesh as a territorial state. Eventually West Mosul will fall (though they have put up a more bloody-minded and dogged existence than anyone would have imagined.). Daesh believes that the last days are upon us, and its destruction of the mosque is likely an announcement of the near advent of the Judgment Day in their eyes. But actually we’ll all be around for a while to do ordinary non-apocalyptic politics.”
Hezbollah says future Israel war could draw fighters from Iran, Iraq, elsewhere (23 June, 2017) Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said on Friday that a future war waged by Israel against Syria or Lebanon could draw thousands of fighters from countries including Iran and Iraq.
Kurds see chance to advance their cause in ruins of Islamic State (24 June, 2017) With the defeat of Isis close, its opponents scent opportunity in the region. Can Kurdish forces win more autonomy?
Russia is at a dead-end in Syria (25 June, 2017) Russia is struggling and failing to find a way out of the Syrian quagmire.
Policy and Reports
Drumpf and the battle for eastern Syria (19 June, 2017) The battle for Mosul may be entering its final phase. The battle for Raqqa is under way. But the battle for the future of eastern Syria is just beginning.
Syria conflict: Why are air combat kills so rare? (19 June, 2017) The shooting-down of a Syrian jet by the United States is believed to be the first air-to-air kill by a manned US aircraft since 1999.
Are the US and Russia headed for a conflict in Syria? (20 June, 2017) Russia warns the US and its allies that it will shoot down any aircraft flying west of the Euphrates river.
Syria war: Polio paralyses 17 children in Mayadin and Raqqa (20 June, 2017) Seventeen children have been paralysed by polio following an outbreak of the disease in Syria that the World Health Organization says is “very serious”.
Senators want Congress to OK military action in Syria (20 June, 2017) U.S. senators called on Congress on Tuesday to take back its authority to determine whether the country goes to war, saying recent U.S. strikes in Syria were not covered by existing authorizations for the use of military force.
Exclusive: Macron pledges pragmatism and cooperation with post-Brexit Britain (21 June, 2017) In his first interview since he was elected as French president, Emmanuel Macron sets out his international agenda on Syria, Drumpf, and European integration
U.S. Taxpayers Are Helping Bashar Al-Assad in a Strategic City (22 June, 2017) While U.S. and U.N. provide humanitarian relief to Deir Ezzor, Syria starves civilians in opposition towns.
US-led attacks in Syria ‘kill 472 civilians in a month’ (23 June, 2017) The past month saw the highest civilian death toll in US-led coalition air raids since they began, says war monitor.
Syrian government says frees 672 prisoners (24 June, 2017) Syria’s government said on Saturday it released 672 prisoners who had promised to accept the state’s authority, a move it said was aimed at bolstering a “reconciliation” process.
Will Get Fooled Again – Seymour Hersh, Welt, and the Khan Sheikhoun Chemical Attack (25 June, 2017) Eliot Higgins responds to Welt’s latest piece by Seymour Hersh, countering the “mainstream” narrative around the April 4th 2017 Khan Sheikhoun chemical attack in Syria.
Documentaries, Special Reports, and Other Media
Historic violin lent by Oxford University to Syrian refugee (19 June, 2017) A 19th Century violin has been taken out of a collection of historic instruments held by Oxford University and sent to a young Syrian musician living as a refugee.
More People Living As Refugees Now Than Anytime Since WWII, New U.N. Reports Says (20 June, 2017) More people are living today as refugees or displaced persons than at any time since World War II. A new United Nations Refugee Agency report says 65 million people are now uprooted from their homes.
In the kitchen, “we’re all human”: Refugee cooks up taste of Syria in Athens (20 June, 2017) Barshank Haj Younes may not have much to celebrate, but the young Syrian is cooking up a feast. His menu features hummus and moutabal – a smoky eggplant salad – and lamb and chicken dishes typically offered to guests at home, about 2,000 km away in war-torn Syria.
The Philosopher: Iconic Syrian academic on freedom, oppression and the origins of the war (21 June, 2017) In the first of a two-part interview, Dr. Ahmad Barqawi isolates the war from the sectarian context through which it is often framed. Barqawi then discusses the inevitability of the Syrian revolution as an outcome of individuals developing an awareness of freedom, even within the all-consuming confines of totalitarianism.
What can be done to stop cultural genocide? (22 June, 2017) The landmark al-Nuri Mosque of Mosul and its leaning minaret have been destroyed in Iraq.
Loose Definition of Terrorism Upends a Syrian Asylum Seeker’s Life (23 June, 2017) Radwan Ziadeh, a prominent Syrian dissident has been told he cannot get political asylum in the United States because he organized a conference with Syrian opposition groups — even though the American government has supported members of those same groups in the Syrian civil war.
Iftar celebrations amid the Douma ruins (23 June, 2017) Against a backdrop of crumbling buildings in the rebel-held Douma district east of Damascus, hungry Syrians sat down together on the rubble-strewn streets to break fast with a free Ramadan meal.
Syrian Men Don’t Care That Islamists Don’t Like Their Haircuts (23 June, 2017) Alaa Kawsara knows some people don’t like the way he styles his hair, but while he lives in opposition-held Syria, surrounded by conservative Islamists with a more austere take on religion, he’s like most other 22 year olds when it comes to what others think about his dress: He doesn’t give a shit.
Artist’s words and colour transform Syrian refugee tent (23 June, 2017) A tent, which was once home to a Syrian refugee family in Jordan’s Za’atari camp, has been transformed into a dramatically different kind of canvas by British artist Kate Daudy and is now on display in London’s Migration Museum.
This refugee squat represents the best and worst of humanity (23 June, 2017) The derelict City Plaza hotel in Athens was taken over by activists in 2016. Since then, it has housed refugees without a cent of government funding
Iftar for the homesick: Remembering Ramadan in Raqqa (24 June, 2017) Huriya Um Salem tries to keep her memories of Ramadan in Raqqa alive by hosting iftars for Syrians living in Doha.
Maps
Syria Crisis: Ar-Raqqa Situation Report No. 9 (8-19 June, 2017) Since early June, an estimated 50,000 people have been displaced in Ar-Raqqa governorate, some for short periods. Of these, 7,655 IDPs have so far been verified by CCCM cluster as remaining displaced for longer periods. The situation continues to be fluid, with new displacements coexisting with rapid return movements to areas taken over by SDF.
Raqqa: The desperate fight for Islamic State group’s ‘capital’ (22 June, 2017) As a battle to eject so-called Islamic State from Mosul grinds on, across the border in Syria, an alliance of US-backed fighters is advancing on the IS stronghold of Raqqa. The BBC’s Gabriel Gatehouse is one of the first reporters to reach the city.
Arabic Links
عن ثنائية “اللائيكية والاستبداد” وصعود “الإسلام السياسي”
(20 June, 2017) Hammoud Hammous writes about the dichotomy of secularism and authoritarianism and the rise of political Islam.
مبادرات وتجمّعات نسائيّة لتطوير مهارات المرأة وتمكينها لمواجهة مسؤوليّاتها المتزايدة في محافظة إدلب
(21 June, 2017) Idlib province is witnessing a rise in activities aimed at empowering women who have suffered in the ongoing war in the country.
The English version of this article can be found here: Syria’s women could be key to the future
الأهداف الجيوسياسيّة للسباق إلى شرق سوريا
(21 June, 2017) Fast-paced developments between the various players of the Syrian war raise questions about the geopolitical importance of the northeastern region.
The English version of this article can be found here: The geopolitics behind race for eastern Syria
فرنسا: المقاربة الماكرونية للأزمة السورية
(22 June, 2017) This panel discusses Emmanuel Macron’s statement that there is no legitimate successor to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and France no longer considered his departure a pre-condition to resolving the six-year-old conflict.
هذا الاقتصاد السوري منذ انطلاق الثورة
(22 June, 2017) Haian Jaber shares his perspective on the economic dimensions in the Syrian conflict.
آهات على جدران حي الوعر
(22 June, 2017) Nidal Al-Homsi writes about her observations of the memoirs and graffities that the evacuees of the besieged al-Waer neighborhood in Homs left behind.
الريف السوري ومعارضة النظام
(23 June, 2017) Samir Saifan analyzes the transformations in rural Syria in the last decades and how that affect today’s realities.
[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.]
