Updated

Protests broke out across Syria after the transitional government sharply raised fuel prices, reflecting continued economic strain in the post-Assad era. The demonstrations add to a series of domestic pressures facing Syria's new leadership as it navigates reconstruction and governance. Syria's Permanent Committee for Pricing Petroleum Products and Mineral Resources confirmed the increases, raising 95-octane gasoline from 152 to 195 Syrian pounds per litre (a 28.3% hike) and 90-octane gasoline from $1.21 to $1.52 per litre (25.9%), citing rising global energy and shipping costs and reduced domestic refining capacity. The price hikes have deepened public frustration and triggered protests nationwide, highlighting the fragile economic footing of Syria's transitional government as it struggles to balance fiscal pressures with popular discontent.