Gritty Palestine enter Arab Cup quarters as favourites Qatar crash out

A trial commenced on December 18 in Aleppo for individuals accused of violence following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, including assaults on transitional government forces. Approximately 500 suspects are under investigation, marking a significant moment as it is the first instance of government-linked security forces facing accountability in Syria.

The US Congress has voted to permanently repeal sanctions imposed on Syria during Bashar al-Assad's regime, signaling a significant shift in US policy towards the country. This legislative change is expected to facilitate foreign investment and economic recovery in Syria, which has been ravaged by years of civil war and authoritarian rule.