THREAD: damascus syria

IRAN’S Year Of Struggles: Major Setbacks and Shocking Events

23 December 2024 — Iran faced numerous challenges this past year. The fall of Syria’s Bashar al-Assad marked a major setback, weakening Iran’s influence in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Its currency plummeted globally, and Israel severely damaged its proxy forces.

In April, tensions soared when Israel bombed the Iranian embassy in Syria. Iran retaliated with over 300 drones and missiles targeting Israel. However, a coalition of Israel, the U.S., Jordan, and Saudi Arabia intercepted nearly all threats successfully.

The death of former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash added to Iran’s troubles. Raisi was seen as a potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameini. Iranian officials blamed dense fog for the crash but it raised questions about internal stability.

Israel further showcased its reach by assassinating Hamas commander Ismail Haniyeh during his visit to Tehran for Iran’s presidential inauguration. This bold move highlighted ongoing regional tensions and underscored Iran’s vulnerabilities amid leadership changes and external pressures.

TRAGIC CHAOS: Car Attack at German Christmas Market Sparks Fear

21 December 2024 — A Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, turned tragic when a car plowed into a crowd, killing five and injuring over 200. Authorities suspect terrorism as they investigate the incident. Several victims remain in critical condition.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned the event as an “attack,” expressing condolences and support for Germany. Cardinal Dolan offered words of hope, stating that “light will prevail” after this tragedy.

Magdeburg Police identified the suspect as a 50-year-old Saudi doctor believed to have acted alone. The driver reportedly covered 400 meters before police subdued him at gunpoint.

SYRIA’S NEW Rulers: Is a Taliban-Like Takeover Imminent?

21 December 2024 — Bashar al-Assad was ousted from Damascus two weeks ago, ending his family’s five-decade rule. The insurgent coalition that toppled him was led by Hayat Tahir al-Sham (HTS), an offshoot of al-Qaeda. HTS leader Muhammad al-Jolani, with a $10 million FBI bounty, is attempting to rebrand as Ahmed al-Sharaa to distance from his terrorist past.

Western governments hope HTS will lead a more inclusive Syria and avoid an Afghanistan-like scenario post-U.S. withdrawal in 2021. However, HTS leaders’ admiration for the Taliban raises concerns about their intentions. The Taliban congratulated HTS on Assad’s overthrow, further complicating the West’s cautious optimism.

Despite designating HTS as a terrorist organization, European governments and the UN have reached out to them to prevent another Afghanistan situation. U.S. diplomats have also engaged with Syria’s new rulers for the first time since 2011, aiming to support Syrian civil society and envision a peaceful future for the country.

Outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken explicitly warned HTS against following the Taliban’s path on Thursday. The Biden administration is wary of repeating past mistakes and seeks assurances that Syria won’t become another stronghold for extremist rule under its new leadership.

TURKISH ATTACKS on US Allies in Syria: A Looming Danger

13 December 2024 — Gen. Mazloum Abdi of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) told Fox News about ongoing Turkish attacks despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The SDF, a key U.S. ally, guards 45,000 ISIS militants and their families in Eastern Syria. Gen. Mazloum said these attacks have severely hindered their counterterror operations.

Since Bashar Al Assad’s fall on December 8, Turkish aggression against the SDF has intensified. Gen. Mazloum warned that if Kurdish forces withdraw, ISIS could resurge in the region. Half of the fighters guarding ISIS camps have been pulled back to protect their families amid escalating violence from Turkey’s forces and allied groups like the Syrian National Army (SNA).

The situation is critical as prison guards at facilities like Raqqa are halved, leaving them vulnerable to potential ISIS breakouts. The U.S., with 900 troops stationed in Eastern Syria, faces a strategic dilemma if Kurdish allies retreat under Turkish pressure.

National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby emphasized maintaining focus on counter-ISIS missions while engaging with both SDF partners and Turkish counterparts to resolve tensions peacefully.

TURKISH ATTACKS Ignite Fears: US Allies In Danger

13 December 2024 — In an exclusive interview with Fox News, Gen. Mazloum Abdi of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) revealed ongoing Turkish military attacks on his Kurdish forces. Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, Turkey continues its aggression, launching up to 80 drone attacks daily and heavy artillery shelling. This has severely hindered the SDF’s counterterrorism operations against ISIS in Eastern Syria.

The situation has worsened since Bashar Al Assad’s fall on December 8, with Gen. Mazloum warning of an ISIS resurgence if Kurdish fighters are forced to flee. He noted that half of the guards at ISIS camps have withdrawn to protect their families, leaving prisons like Raqqa’s in a precarious state with diminished security personnel.

Gen. Mazloum emphasized that all prisons remain under SDF control but are critically understaffed due to Turkish aggression. The U.S., which has 900 troops in Eastern Syria, may need to withdraw if the Kurdish forces retreat under pressure from Turkey’s military actions against what it perceives as terrorist threats from the Kurds.

National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby stated that maintaining focus on counter-ISIS missions is crucial and highlighted ongoing communication with both SDF partners and Turkish counterparts to address these tensions effectively.

ASSAD’S Fall Rocks Syria: Russia’s Strategic Nightmare

09 December 2024 — The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria marks a major shift after 14 years of civil war. Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, has been ousted, leaving these powers to handle the fallout. This change challenges Russia’s strategic interests in the Middle East.

Russia aimed to maintain its influence in the region through military bases like Khmeimim and Tartus. With Assad out, these assets are now at risk. Rebekah Koffler calls this a strategic defeat for Russia amid its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Ksenia Svetlova from the Atlantic Council criticized Russia’s failure to keep its promises in Syria. She noted that Moscow’s abandonment of Assad makes it look like an unreliable ally, unlike U.S. support for Israel during crises. This perception weakens Russia’s position among Middle Eastern allies.

Former President Trump commented on the situation saying, “Assad is gone,” highlighting the rebels’ success against the longtime dictator. The event underscores shifting power dynamics and raises questions about future regional stability and alliances.

ASSAD FLEES as Rebels Take Damascus: A NEW Dawn for Syria

08 December 2024 — Syrian leader Bashar Assad has fled the country after rebels seized control of Damascus, reports Reuters. Assad and his family have reportedly left Syria, though their destination is unknown. Syrian state TV aired a video statement announcing Assad’s overthrow and the release of all prisoners.

The statement urged opposition fighters and citizens to protect state institutions in “the free Syrian state.” It celebrated unity among Syrians of all sects and ethnic groups. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali said he lost contact with Assad on Saturday night.

Celebrations erupted in Damascus as crowds gathered in central squares, chanting anti-Assad slogans and firing celebratory gunshots. The fall of the Assad regime marks a major shift in Middle East power dynamics after nearly 14 years of civil war.

This collapse ends over 50 years of Assad family rule in Syria, signaling a new chapter for a nation embroiled in conflict with Islamist rebels seeking change.

RUSSIA’S Military Drills in Syria: A Powerful Warning to Ukraine

04 December 2024 — Russia recently held major military drills around Syria, showing off its naval and air strength. The exercises involved 1,000 personnel, ten ships, and 24 aircraft. This display is seen as support for Syria and a warning to Ukraine.

The Kremlin called the drills “joint” operations that follow international law. Footage showed modern frigates like Admiral Gorshkov with older Syrian missile boats. Russia also tested its Oniks anti-ship cruise missile during these exercises.

A key moment was the launch of a Zircon hypersonic cruise missile from a frigate, praised by President Putin as a “superweapon.” The Zircon can target ships and land installations. Moscow said another launch from the submarine Novorossiysk involved a Kalibir missile, used often against Ukraine.

These missiles worry Kyiv due to their nuclear capabilities and effectiveness in warfare. Ukraine keeps a close watch on Russian Kalibir-capable ships in the Black Sea as part of its defense strategy against Russian aggression.

RUSSIA’S Dangerous Plot: Planes to US and Canada at Risk

06 November 2024 — Western security officials suspect Russia is plotting to plant EXPLOSIVES on planes bound for the United States and Canada. Two incendiary devices ignited at DHL logistics hubs in Germany and England, triggering a multinational investigation. Intelligence agencies found electric massagers with flammable substances were used as a “test run” for Russian sabotage efforts.

Poland’s National Prosecutor’s Office arrested four suspects linked to the DHL hub fires, charging them with “sabotage or terrorist operations.” The suspects allegedly tested parcel transfer channels intended for North America. Authorities have not disclosed their identities or nationalities.

Pawel Szota, head of Poland’s foreign-intelligence agency, attributed the plot to Russian spies. He warned that any attack would mark a “major escalation” of Russia’s sabotage against Western nations. This revelation underscores rising tensions between Russia and Western powers amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.

US STRIKES on ISIS in Syria: A Powerful Blow to Terrorism

30 October 2024 — U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced a series of successful strikes on ISIS locations in Syria, eliminating up to 35 terrorists. The operation targeted multiple camps and took out several senior ISIS leaders, with no civilian casualties reported.

CENTCOM stated that these airstrikes will disrupt ISIS’s ability to plan and execute attacks against civilians, the U.S., allies, and partners in the region. The command emphasized its commitment to degrading ISIS’s operational capabilities alongside regional allies to ensure the group’s defeat.

This announcement follows an incident in Iraq where two U.S. service members were injured during an operation that killed at least seven ISIS operatives. Both service members are reportedly in stable condition as CENTCOM continues its efforts against terrorism in the Middle East.

GERMANY FOILS Isis Plot: Arrest Sparks Security Alert

20 October 2024 — German authorities have arrested a Libyan man suspected of planning an attack on the Israeli embassy in Berlin. The arrest happened in the Bernau suburb, stopping a potential terror act. The suspect intended to flee to Sankt Augustin and eventually leave Germany after carrying out the attack.

Israel’s ambassador to Germany, Ron Prosor, praised German authorities for keeping the embassy safe. He emphasized that “Muslim anti-Semitism” fuels global terrorism and endangers embassy staff. Local Interior Minister Herbert Reul warned those threatening Jewish life in Germany: "We are on your trail!

This arrest follows a recent shooting by an 18-year-old Austrian citizen of Bosnian descent at the Israeli consulate in Munich. The attack also targeted a nearby museum dedicated to National Socialism documentation. These events highlight ongoing threats against Jewish institutions in Europe.

ISRAEL DEFENDS Citizens: Destroys Hamas Rocket Launchers

22 May 2024 — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the destruction of multi-barrel rocket launchers in Rafah. These launchers were aimed at Israeli territory and posed a significant threat. The IDF located and neutralized the sites along the Philadelphi Corridor.

The operation underscores Israel’s need to control Rafah to eliminate Hamas battalions and secure the border. Rockets from Rafah have previously targeted the Keren Shalom crossing, a vital entry point for humanitarian aid between Israel and Gaza.

The IDF remains committed to targeting terror threats in Rafah to protect Israeli citizens. “We will continue our operations against terror targets,” stated an IDF spokesperson on Twitter.

ISRAEL DEFIES US Warnings, Ramps Up Military Strike in Gaza’s Rafah

12 May 2024 — Israel has escalated its military actions in Rafah, Gaza, despite U.S. cautions. The Israeli military ordered tens of thousands to leave the area immediately. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari confirmed that the operations targeted and eliminated numerous militants. This aggressive stance persists even amid international concerns about rising civilian casualties and disruptions to humanitarian aid efforts.

Global protests have ignited as Israel alleges Hamas militants are consolidating in northern Gaza following seven months of ongoing conflict. The United Nations warns that intensifying military activities in Rafah might severely impact humanitarian initiatives and increase civilian fatalities. The closure of the Rafah border crossing complicates aid delivery, heightening regional tensions further.

President Joe Biden has explicitly denied supplying offensive weaponry for operations in Rafah, pointing to credible evidence that Israel might be violating international laws designed to protect civilians during conflict situations. On the other hand, Israeli authorities maintain they adhere strictly to these laws and have implemented advanced warning systems to reduce civilian casualties before launching operations

The crisis deepens as over 1.4 million Palestinians find themselves displaced within Rafah’s confines due to recent evacuations moving populations into areas already heavily affected by conflict. Aid organizations are overwhelmed trying to manage under these challenging circumstances.

US Troops UNDER ATTACK: Iran-Backed Militias Blamed for Deadly Drone Strike

31 January 2024 — A devastating drone attack in Jordan, which tragically claimed the lives of three U.S. service members, has been attributed to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an organization supported by Iran. The assault also resulted in injuries for at least 40 troops stationed at Tower 22, a covert base vital to American operations in Syria. This alarming incident unfolds as President Joe Biden weighs his retaliatory options.

In a stern warning, Iran vowed to “respond decisively” if the U.S. takes action against Tehran for the attack. John Kirby, spokesman for the National Security Council, confirmed that this premeditated strike was orchestrated by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq and included involvement from militant group Kataib Hezbollah.

Kirby dismissed an announcement from Kataib Hezbollah about halting military operations against occupation forces as untrustworthy. He stressed that they are not alone in launching attacks on U.S forces. Amid this escalating situation, President Biden is set to attend a solemn ceremony honoring fallen troops at Dover Air Force Base this Friday.

Additional American strikes could potentially intensify tensions within an already unstable region struggling with Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza since

LEBANON STRIKES: Hezbollah’s Deadly Missile Attack Rattles Israel Amidst Gaza Conflict

14 January 2024 — A lethal anti-tank missile, launched from Lebanon, claimed the lives of two civilians in northern Israel this past Sunday. This alarming incident has ignited concerns over a potential second front emerging amidst the ongoing clash between Israel and Hamas.

This strike marks a grim milestone — the 100th day of a war that has tragically taken nearly 24,000 Palestinian lives and forced approximately 85% of Gaza’s population from their homes. The conflict was sparked by an unexpected Hamas incursion into southern Israel last October, leading to around 1,200 fatalities and roughly 250 hostages.

The region remains on edge as daily fire exchanges persist between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah group. Meanwhile, Iranian-backed militias target U.S. interests in Syria and Iraq as Yemen’s Houthi rebels threaten international shipping lanes.

Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, remains defiant vowing to persist until a Gaza cease-fire is established. His declaration comes as countless Israelis evacuate northern border regions due to escalating aggression.

IDF UNCOVERS Massive Hamas Weapons Factory in Heart of Civilian Area: A Chilling Discovery

09 January 2024 — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have made a startling discovery in the midst of conflict. They’ve unearthed the most extensive weapons production site since the war’s onset. This alarming facility was located in Bureij, a heavily populated civilian region situated in central Gaza.

IDF spokesman, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, disclosed that this clandestine factory is nestled 30 meters below ground level. It has been producing long-range rockets, mortar bombs, and components for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Intriguingly, it was constructed along the Tancher axis or Salah ad-Din Road — a route frequently used by humanitarian aid trucks.

Hamas ingeniously concealed its terror manufacturing facilities within civilian industrial spaces and along a humanitarian pathway. The IDF has effectively disassembled these facilities and is currently obliterating them.

As reported by The Times of Israel, these sites situated along Salah ad-Din road constitute the largest rocket manufacturing plant discovered to date on the Strip.

GAZA NIGHTMARE: Mizrahi Unveils Horrifying Hamas Atrocities

20 December 2023 — Mizrahi, a U.S. citizen with Israeli roots, recently spoke at a crowded synagogue in Malibu, California. She recounted the harrowing experience her family faced during the October 7 Hamas attack on Kfar Aza, Israel. Her cousin and his daughter lost their lives while his wife and remaining children were abducted.

The Los Angeles Times confirmed that Mizrahi’s cousin Nadav Goldstein Almog and his daughter Yam were among the many victims in their kibbutz during the assault. Goldstein Almog’s wife Chen and their three children were among over 200 Israelis kidnapped and transported to Gaza.

A doctor who examined several freed hostages last month corroborated Mizrahi’s account to CBS News. He revealed that Hamas employed meticulously orchestrated psychological torture against the captives, including claims that Israel had ceased to exist. The family heard from survivors that they had been relocated to Hamas tunnels towards the end of their captivity where they encountered mistreated female hostages.

Maya and Dvir Rosenfeld managed to survive for 24 hours in their home’s safe room with their infant son during the Kfar Aza onslaught. They believe an open door led Hamas operatives to assume their home had already been targeted, thus escaping capture.

ISRAELI Raid on GAZA and US Strikes on Iran-Linked Sites in Syria: The Tense Standoff Escalates

27 October 2023 — In a sudden move, Israeli forces carried out a brief but intense raid on northern Gaza. The military operation, which took place overnight, was aimed at Hamas fighters and their anti-tank weaponry. This action is seen as groundwork for a possible ground invasion, marking the third such Israeli raid since the conflict erupted.

Meanwhile, responding to drone and missile assaults on U.S. bases and personnel in the region, the U.S. military executed airstrikes early Friday morning. These strikes targeted two locations in eastern Syria associated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), according to Pentagon reports.

Arab leaders unitedly called for an immediate cease-fire on Thursday. Their plea aims to alleviate civilian suffering by allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza where residents are grappling with severe shortages of food, water, medicine while UN workers struggle with dwindling fuel supplies for relief missions.

The Health Ministry of Hamas-controlled Gaza reported that over 7,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict — an unverified figure thus far. On Israel’s end, there have been more than 1,400 casualties

ISRAEL RISES: Demands Vatican’s Unequivocal Condemnation of Hamas Terrorism

16 October 2023 — Israel’s representative, Cohen, has called on the Vatican to outrightly condemn the terrorist activities of Hamas. This follows a report by The Times of Israel. Cohen criticized the Holy See for its apparent bias, showing more concern for Gazan civilians while Israel mourns over 1,300 victims. He further stressed that Hamas terrorists have targeted women, children and the elderly simply because they are Jews and Israelis.

On October 11th, Pope Francis made a call for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. However, he also criticized what he termed as Israel’s “total siege” on Palestinians in Gaza. While acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defense, he expressed worry over innocent victims in Gaza. This stance has drawn criticism from American Catholic intellectual George Weigel.

Weigel accused Pope Francis of falling back on a “default position” which appeals to both sides when a direct condemnation was required instead. Similarly critical were voices from the Israeli Embassy to the Holy See; they warned against Vatican statements that seemed to imply equal guilt between victims and perpetrators involved in recent atrocities.

Pope Francis emphasized that terrorism and extremism only serve to fuel hatred, violence and suffering. However, his stance has been met with criticism from those who believe he should adopt a stronger stand against acts of terror perpetrated by

ALARMING Surge in ANTISEMITIC Crimes: London Deploys Over 1,000 Officers Ahead of Rally

14 October 2023 — In response to a disturbing increase in antisemitic hate crimes, Scotland Yard has deployed over a thousand officers. This action precedes a pro-Palestinian rally planned for tomorrow. The extent of HAMAS support among London’s Muslim and secular radical populations is yet to be determined.

London’s Muslim community, which makes up about one-sixth of the city’s population, has grown to 1.3 million due to diversity and mass immigration policies by the two main political parties. In contrast, census data shows that the Jewish population has decreased to an estimated 265,000.

Following the deadly HAMAS attack on October 7 that took over 1,000 Jewish lives, numerous protests have erupted. As antisemitic incidents in Britain have escalated since the conflict began, two Jewish schools in London have decided to close until Monday.

Senior Officer Laurence Taylor noted a significant rise in antisemitic crimes compared with last year’s figures during the same period (30 September — 13 October). He mentioned that while Islamophobic incidents have also slightly increased, they are nowhere near as prevalent as the surge in antisemitism.