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Qa'alat Masyaf is located in the town of Masyaf in Hama Governorate, Syria, situated in the Orontes Valley, approximately 40 kilometers to the west of Hama. It served to protect the trade routes to cities further inland such as Banyas. The castle itself stands on a platform about 20 meters above the surrounding plain. The citadel became famous as the stronghold from which Rashid ad-Din Sinan, known as the Old Man of the Mountain ruled. He was a leader of the Syrian wing of the Hashshashin sect, also known as the Assassins, and a figure in the history of the Crusades. History of the castle Evidence suggests that the lower layers and foundations of the castle are of Byzantine origin. Later levels were added by the Nizari Ismailis, Mamluks, and Ottomans. The castle was captured by the Assassins in 1141 from Sanqur (who had held it on behalf of the Banu Mundiqh of Shayzar) and was later refortified by Rashid al-Din Sinan. Masyaf and the surrounding town functioned as the capital of a Nizari emirate from the middle of the 12th century until the end of the 13th century. Saladin besieged it in May 1176 but the siege did not last long and it concluded with a truce. Current research indicates it was held by the Hashshashins at that time. In 1260, the castle was surrendered to the Mongols. Later that year in September, the Nizaris allied with the Mamluks to drive the Mongols out from Syria and reclaim the castle. Baybars took hold of the castle in February 1270. In 1830, an Egyptian expedition led by Ibrahim Pasha did some damage to the castle. Restoration funded by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Historic Cities Support Program began in 2000.

world

Syrians in Idlib Celebrate Death Sentence of Ousted President Bashar al-Assad

Residents of Idlib, a stronghold of the Syrian revolution, gathered to mark the court's sentencing of former President Bashar al-Assad to death.

Aug 12, 2026, 3:13 AM Al Jazeera

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Syria Redefines Relationship with Russia Following Assad's Fall

Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in 2024, Syria has severed ties with some former allies while reshaping its diplomatic stance with Russia.

Al Jazeera | Jul 16, 2026, 8:42 PM

O presidente da República Árabe Síria, Bashar al-Assad , sendo recebido no Itamaraty pelo presidente Lula .

world

Atef Najib Sentenced to Death Alongside Bashar al-Assad in Damascus Court

Former Syrian security official Atef Najib receives death penalty for crimes against humanity during Syria’s civil war.

Al Jazeera | Aug 11, 2026, 10:53 AM

global-institutions

UN Chief António Guterres Calls Syria a ‘Moment of Possibility’ During Landmark Visit

On his first visit since the fall of the Assad regime, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urges international support for Syria’s recovery and future stability.

UN News | Jul 26, 2026, 11:45 PM

world

Ex-Syrian Intelligence Chief Convicted of Torture and Sexual Abuse in Austrian Court

Two former Syrian officials were found guilty in Vienna for crimes against opponents of Bashar al-Assad during the Syrian uprising.

BBC World | Jul 7, 2026, 4:09 AM

City of Saidnaya seen from the convent of Our Lady of Saidnaya, Syria

world

UN Chief Antonio Guterres Visits Syria’s Notorious Sednaya Prison

Antonio Guterres becomes the first serving UN Secretary-General to visit Syria since 2009, touring the infamous Sednaya prison known for severe human rights abuses.

Al Jazeera | Jul 27, 2026, 1:41 AM

The United Nations Security Council Chamber in New York, also known as the Norwegian Room

world

UN Chief António Guterres Calls for Global Support as Syria Recovers from Civil War

In his first visit to Damascus since 2009, UN Secretary-General António Guterres meets interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and highlights Syria’s pivotal moment in post-conflict recovery.

Africanews | Jul 26, 2026, 9:29 AM

world

In Syria’s Jobar, Locals Face Challenges Rebuilding Homes After Years of Conflict

Once a vibrant neighborhood in East Damascus, Jobar now lies in ruins after years of war, with residents returning to rebuild amid the devastation.

Al Jazeera | Jul 16, 2026, 6:55 PM

world

Damascus Hit by Explosions Amid Macron’s Visit as Syria Faces Multiple Threats

Twin blasts in Damascus during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit highlight ongoing instability in Syria, compounded by internal conflicts and political tensions.

Al Jazeera | Jul 8, 2026, 6:49 AM

world

Bomb Explosions Near Damascus Hotel During Macron's Historic Visit to Syria

Despite several bombs detonating near the Four Seasons Hotel in Damascus, French President Emmanuel Macron proceeds with his landmark visit to Syria, marking the first Western leader's trip since al-Sharaa assumed power.

France 24 English | Jul 7, 2026, 9:35 AM

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