There are few grounds for optimism over the Palestinian question but the west can help Syria get back on its feet
Foreign and defence ministers arrive in Riyadh as Gulf states move to embrace new rulers
The country’s loss of human capital underscores systemic problems
Attack on Kamal Adwan comes as Israel steps up offensive that began in October
Cecilia Sala jailed days after two Iranians were detained in Italy and Switzerland for allegedly passing on drone technology
Prime minister’s wife accused of harassing witnesses and obstructing justice in her husband’s corruption cases
Boss of World Health Organisation among those present during Israel’s strike on Sana’a airport
Israel has achieved military success, but only peace can guarantee its security
Deaths in Tartus province come as protests highlight new leadership’s instability concerns
Incursion by Israeli forces 8km north of UN ‘Blue Line’ adds to allegations of truce violations
From Gaza and Lebanon to Syria, the region has experienced a year of multiple devastating conflicts
Reformist government promises removal of more internet curbs as it seeks to ease restrictions on population
Several groups agree to merge under defence ministry as interim government seeks to unite fractured country
At ‘settlement centres’, ex-soldiers hand in weapons and spit on pictures of former president amid fear of retribution
Many in the west will find comfort that these historical transformations have been contained but complacency is dangerous
Measure comes after American officials meet Abu Mohammed al-Jolani in Damascus
A visual guide to the conflict and its regional impact on the Middle East
The FT pieces together the final movements of Syria’s former president and first family
Washington warns power vacuum after Assad’s fall creates opening for extremists
Bezalel Smotrich and ultranationalists in cabinet criticise renewed push for an agreement
Diplomats press for deal that would include release of hostages before Donald Trump takes office in US
Ankara and Gulf states also criticise goal to ‘expand borders’ in annexed territory after Syria rebels toppled regime
Turkey and Israel move to take advantage of the fall of the Assad regime in Syria
Abu Mohammad al-Jolani says new rulers must not get distracted from task of rebuilding
Hopes for democracy in Egypt, Libya and Tunisia were dashed but Syrians hope this time can be different
