Syria

The fall of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024 marked the end of Syria's Captagon trade, a major source of regime revenue, creating both challenges for the country's economic recovery and opportunities for regional stability.

Turkish President Erdogan has warned the Syrian Peshmerga of military action unless they disarm, citing their links to the PKK, while emphasising Türkiye's commitment to securing its borders and expanding its influence in Syria amidst growing regional tensions.

Protests erupted across Syria after a Christmas tree was burned in Suqaylabiyah, raising doubts about the ability of the Islamist-led Hayat Tahrir al-Sham to protect minorities as they transition from a Islamist group to the halls of power in post-Assad Syria.

There is a critical need for a unified Syria amidst escalating unrest in the Middle East to support Syria's sovereignty and security, while addressing rising sectarian tensions inside the country. Jordan plays a key mediating role; it advocates solutions to reconstruction efforts and the plight of Syrian refugees.

Israel’s plan to double settlements in the disputed Golan Heights has drawn widespread international criticism, with opponents deeming it illegal under international law, destabilising for the region, and an obstacle to peace efforts.