Druse Militia Refuse to Join Syria’s New Army

Druse Militia Refuse to Join Syria’s New Army

The trainer paced the grounds of a mountain enclave in southwestern Syria, shouting at dozens of new recruits as they drilled sprints between barricades made from old car tires. “You have to practice as if it’s real,” screamed the instructor, Fadi Azam. “Want me to start shooting at you instead …

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Syrians Demand Better Protection Amid a Spate of Kidnappings

Syrians Demand Better Protection Amid a Spate of Kidnappings

The first ransom demand came in a text message on Sami al-Izoo’s phone 10 days after he witnessed his brother being kidnapped, forced into a truck with dark tinted windows by six masked men. Next came a video in which he said his brother, Abdulrazaq al-Izoo, 60, appeared with his …

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While Calm Reigns in Damascus, Battles in Syria’s Northeast Rage On

While Calm Reigns in Damascus, Battles in Syria’s Northeast Rage On

In the Syrian capital, Damascus, the country’s new leader has hosted a national unity conference and welcomed foreign dignitaries as crowds gather at cafes, speaking out freely for the first time in decades. But 400 miles away in northeastern Syria, a region beyond the control of the Damascus government, battles …

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Ahmed al-Shara: The Evolution of Syria’s New Leader

Ahmed al-Shara: The Evolution of Syria’s New Leader

As the commander of a rebel group allied with Al Qaeda during Syria’s long civil war, the man known by his nom du guerre, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, welcomed foreign jihadists, dispatched suicide bombers to blow up military posts and vowed to create an Islamic state. A decade ago, he told …

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Syria Faces Big Challenge in Seeking Justice for Assad Regime Crimes

Syria Faces Big Challenge in Seeking Justice for Assad Regime Crimes

There seem to be no limits to the dark revelations laid bare by the downfall of Syria’s 54-year Assad regime. Prisons have emptied, exposing the instruments of torture used on peaceful protesters and others considered opponents of the government. Stacks of official documents record thousands of detainees. Morgues and mass …

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