New Syrian leaders say they want to contribute to ‘regional peace’

Members of the media react during a power cut ahead of the press conference of U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf, in Damascus, Syria, December 20, 2024. (REUTERS)
Members of the media react during a power cut ahead of the press conference of U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf, in Damascus, Syria, December 20, 2024. (REUTERS)
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Updated 21 December 2024
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New Syrian leaders say they want to contribute to ‘regional peace’

New Syrian leaders say they want to contribute to ‘regional peace’
  • France, Germany, Britain, and the United Nations have also sent emissaries to Damascus in recent days to establish contacts with the new authorities

DAMASCUS: Syria wants to contribute to “regional peace,” the country’s new authorities said late Friday, after a meeting between leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa and a US diplomatic delegation.
“The Syrian side indicated that the Syrian people stand at an equal distance from all countries and parties in the region and that Syria rejects any polarization,” the statement said.
It said the new authorities wanted to “affirm Syria’s role in promoting regional peace and building privileged strategic partnerships with countries in the region.”
A Syrian official had previously told AFP that the meeting between Al-Sharaa — known previously by his nom de guerre Abu Mohammed Al-Jolani — and the US delegation led by Barbara Leaf, head of the Middle East at the State Department, was “positive.”
Al-Sharaa, the leader of the Islamist Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) group that seized power in Damascus, was previously the target of US sanctions.
But after their first formal contact in Damascus on Friday, Washington announced it had dropped a bounty for his arrest.
“Based on our discussion, I told him that we were dropping the offer of a reward,” Leaf told reporters.
She said she told the new Syrian leader of the “critical need to ensure that terrorist groups cannot pose a threat inside Syria or outside, including to the United States and our partners in the region.”
He “committed to doing so,” she said, adding he had appeared to her as “pragmatic.”
HTS, which leads the victorious coalition of armed groups in Damascus, claims to have broken with jihadism and has sought to reassure people of its ability to revive the country after nearly 14 years of civil war.
France, Germany, Britain, and the United Nations have also sent emissaries to Damascus in recent days to establish contacts with the new authorities.
The West is wary of the risk of fragmentation of the country and the resurgence of the jihadist group Islamic State, which has never been completely eradicated there.
 

 


Multidisciplinary art residency captures spirit of Jeddah’s Al-Balad

Multidisciplinary art residency captures spirit of Jeddah’s Al-Balad
Updated 2 min 21 sec ago
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Multidisciplinary art residency captures spirit of Jeddah’s Al-Balad

Multidisciplinary art residency captures spirit of Jeddah’s Al-Balad
  • Bait Shouaib Residency brings together diverse creatives to reflect on ‘movement’ in historic district

JEDDAH: Athr Foundation’s Bait Shouaib Arts Residency in Al-Balad district brought together a filmmaker, curator and two artists, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration over an eight-week program.

The Moving Narratives cycle explored the theme of movement through diverse lenses and transformed the historic Bait Shouaib into an active participant in the creative process.

The exhibition, which was open last month as part of this year’s Islamic Arts Biennale, welcomed visitors to witness interpretations of Jeddah’s cultural and historical essence through contemporary art.

Hayfa Algwaiz created a site-specific mobile installation in Bait Shouaib’s stairwell, or minwar. (Supplied)

Residency director and senior program manager at Athr Foundation, Ibrahim Romman, highlighted the program’s impact and told Arab News: “Each resident’s exploration of ‘movement’ became an invitation to reflect on how stories, spaces and identities shift and intersect.

“Together, their work offered a richly layered response to the theme, presenting interdisciplinary perspectives that bridged the historical with the contemporary.”

Sudanese artist Rund Alarabi has created a poetic video installation bridging the cultural and architectural legacies of the port cities of Jeddah and Suakin, Sudan.

Vietnamese curator Nhat Q. Vo centered his project around Al-Shafi’i Mosque. (Supplied)

Her project delves into the undocumented and intangible aspects of collective memory. She told Arab News: “Living between Frankfurt, Khartoum and Jeddah has fed my practice with various materials and unraveled new ways of misunderstanding. This has led me to question what I consider to be given and rethink my understanding of global and local consensus.”

Featuring sensory elements such as soundscapes composed of everyday cooking utensils, her installation forges an intimate connection to cultural memory. “Sound and moving images act as vessels that challenge our understanding of reality. They highlight overlooked aspects of our existence by infiltrating beyond our preconceived assumptions,” she said.

Filmmaker Nada Al-Mojadedi drew inspiration from Hejazi folklore to craft an immersive narrative that seamlessly blends performance, textiles and moving images. Her dual-room installation transformed her studio into a theatrical set, inviting visitors to journey through time.

Sudanese artist Rund Alarabi’s video installation bridged the architectural legacies of the port cities of Jeddah and Suakin, Sudan. (Supplied)

Al-Mojadedi explained: “I wanted to blur the lines between performer and observer, offering an intimate reflection on identity and memory.”

Speaking about her approach to the theme, she added: “For me, movement transcends the physical; it embodies the unseen — a constant, evolving force of imagination, a ‘quantum dance’ through time and space. This concept guided my exploration of Hejazi folklore, where I intertwined heritage with newly crafted urban legends.

“Immersing myself in Al-Balad’s vibrant life and stories, and inspired by my connection to Bait Shouaib and a visiting butterfly, I created Haleema, a Hejazi urban legend inspired by the untold stories of women who once lived in these spaces.”

Reflecting on her creative process, Al-Mojadedi said: “My work layers the personal with the performative, reimagining space as both a site of storytelling and an active participant in the narrative. Being part of this residency was an enriching experience that allowed us to delve into the dynamic cultural tapestry of Al-Balad and contribute our individual narratives to its enduring story.”

Similarly, another artist, Nhat Q. Vo, a Vietnamese curator and cultural worker, explored the transient histories of Jeddah’s migrant worker communities, centering his project around Al-Shafi’i Mosque, a hub of cultural exchange.

“When I arrived in Al-Balad, I was drawn to its physical environment and the untold stories of the laborers who sustain Historic Jeddah. At first, the language barrier made it difficult to connect, but my discovery of Al-Shafi’i Mosque changed everything.

“The sight of people gathering for iftar, united by faith despite their differences, inspired me to represent their stories through their shared rituals rather than words.”

Speaking about how architecture informed his creative approach, he said: “Architecture became a vessel for these narratives, a place where diverse communities converge. Using over 70 meters of fabric to replace the plastic sufra at the mosque, I allowed the material to absorb the traces of shared meals and human connection.

“The fabric, marked by food crumbs, oil stains and creases, became a tangible record of collective memory. For me, the real inspiration comes from the people whose lives and routines shape the rich tapestry of these spaces.”

Riyadh-based artist and architect, Hayfa Algwaiz, has created a site-specific mobile installation in Bait Shouaib’s stairwell, or minwar, exploring the interplay between movement, space and architectural elements.

Activating the stairwell as a dynamic participant in her narrative, she said: “The subtle movement of the mobile mirrored the ephemeral qualities of light, air and transition experienced in Al-Balad. By focusing on a single element, I was able to honor the historic significance of the space while introducing contemporary artistic interpretations.”

Elaborating on her approach, she said: “As an artist and architect, I strive to bridge the past and the present by focusing on elements that connect them, such as the framed openings in historic structures like Bait Shouaib. These openings, adorned with intricate ornamentation, are constants that I deconstruct and reconstruct to reflect our contemporary times.

“In Saudi Arabia’s rapidly changing urban landscape, I aim to spark a dialogue around what should be preserved and what can evolve. By reinterpreting traditional materials, spatial layouts and ornamentation into modern expressions, I hope to honor our cultural identity while embracing the future.”

Animated by natural airflow, her installation reflects the residency’s ethos of bridging tradition with innovation.

“Architecture has the potential to transform into a living, breathing entity, and I sought to capture that essence,” she said.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘La Calle’ in Jeddah

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Updated 10 min 30 sec ago
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘La Calle’ in Jeddah

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  • The La Calle sandu is a club sandwich layered with fried eggs, smoked chicken breast and Jack cheese, served with crispy homemade potato chips

La Calle is a great spot for breakfast, casual lunches or relaxed evening gatherings in Jeddah.

I spent a Saturday morning there with friends and we enjoyed a vibrant breakfast. The menu offered a variety of options, ranging from Mediterranean flavors to sandwiches, eggs Benedict, fresh juices, and more.

We opted for four main dishes, including the avocado tuna sandu. My personal choice was the smoked salmon Benedict, a visually appealing dish with two medium-poached eggs served on a buttery muffin, topped with a beetroot hollandaise sauce that gave it a striking pink hue, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. While beautifully presented, the eggs could have been more seasoned, and the sauce lacked depth in flavor.

The La Calle sandu is a club sandwich layered with fried eggs, smoked chicken breast and Jack cheese, served with crispy homemade potato chips.

Another standout dish was the Arabic breakfast, which captured the essence of authentic Arabian flavors. Served on a beautifully arranged tray, it included ful, pickles, hummus, falafel, honey and cream, a delightful combination that brought a taste of tradition to our table.

La Calle also offers a range of nutritious options including granola bowls, salads and vegan dishes. As for dessert, we indulged in the classic creme brulee — the caramelized sugar crust had the perfect crunch, making every spoonful a treat.

The service was great, with friendly staff and quick responses. The ambience was warm and inviting with large glass windows that allowed natural sunlight to flood the space, complemented by soothing background music.

Located on Prince Sultan Road, La Calle is open from 8 a.m. to midnight.

For more information visit @lacalle.sa on Instagram.

 


Aston Villa’s Duran joins Saudi club Al Nassr for reported £64 mln

Aston Villa’s Duran joins Saudi club Al Nassr for reported £64 mln
Updated 9 min 35 sec ago
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Aston Villa’s Duran joins Saudi club Al Nassr for reported £64 mln

Aston Villa’s Duran joins Saudi club Al Nassr for reported £64 mln
  • The 21-year-old Colombian scored Villa’s winner in their memorable Champions League victory against Bayern Munich earlier this season
  • “Aston Villa can confirm that Jhon Duran has joined Al-Nassr for an undisclosed fee,” the Premier League club said

LONDON: Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran joined Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr on Friday in a deal worth a reported £64 million ($79 million).
Duran was unable to break into Villa’s team on a regular basis despite a series of impressive substitute appearances.
The 21-year-old Colombian scored Villa’s winner in their memorable Champions League victory against Bayern Munich earlier this season.
“Aston Villa can confirm that Jhon Duran has joined Al-Nassr for an undisclosed fee,” the Premier League club said in a statement.

“The striker moves to Saudi Arabia having scored 12 goals for Villa this term, including the winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
“Everyone at Aston Villa would like to wish Jhon all the best in the next step of his professional career.”
Duran will link up with Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane in the Al Nassr attack after completing his move on the Saudi transfer deadline day.
It is the second biggest transfer fee Villa have received behind the £100 million Manchester City paid for Jack Grealish.
Duran joined Villa from Chicago Fire for £18 million in January 2023, scoring 20 goals in 78 appearances, but making just seven league starts.
Duran’s exit means Villa are almost certain to keep England striker Ollie Watkins, who had been the subject of a reported £60 million bid from Arsenal.
Villa boss Unai Emery said earlier on Friday that Watkins had told him he wanted to stay with the club.


$700,000 Lamborghini written off after crashing into wall on handover day in Beirut

$700,000 Lamborghini written off after crashing into wall on handover day in Beirut
Updated 34 min 38 sec ago
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$700,000 Lamborghini written off after crashing into wall on handover day in Beirut

$700,000 Lamborghini written off after crashing into wall on handover day in Beirut
  • Lebanese sportscar enthusiast paid cash for the hybrid super sports car last year, and was expecting to collect it on Friday
  • Zero-mileage vehicle was being driven to gas station to be filled by a service technician shortly before delivery

BEIRUT: A car service driver reportedly crashed a $700,000 Lamborghini Revuelto in Beirut on handover day when he took the high-performance vehicle to a gas station to be filled up before delivery on Friday.
A Lebanese sportscar enthusiast named by local media as Hani Sheet reportedly paid cash for the hybrid super sports car last year and was expecting to collect it when the accident happened in Sin El Fil area in eastern Beirut.
Videos and images showing the badly damaged green Lamborghini spread quickly on social media, triggering controversy and debate among users.
The supercar is believed to be beyond repair after crashing into a fence wall and will likely be scrapped.
Social media posts suggested the buyer was expecting to collect the car on Friday after waiting almost a year for delivery. The zero-mileage vehicle was being prepared for the handover and was being driven to a nearby gas station to be filled up by a service technician when the crash occurred.
On Saturday, Sheet confirmed in a statement that he is the Lamborghini owner and that he is “not responsible for the accident, but rather Lamborghini company.”
The statement added: “Lamborghini company, as usual, conducted a trial test of the new car that Sheet requested from outside Lebanon, but during the test the horrific accident occurred and the car was destroyed.”
On Friday, Yasa, a Lebanese NGO that promotes road safety, posted images and news of the accident online, but made no mention of who was responsible.
Following the controversy and social media debate that accompanied the accident, Yasa issued a clarification on Saturday, confirming that “it is not authorized to determine responsibilities in the Lamborghini car accident.”
Ziad Akl, Yasa’s president, told Arab News: “The traffic expert who examined the accident site is responsible for determining who’s accountable for the accident, whether it be Lamborghini company, its employee or any third party. Yasa or I aren’t responsible. I do not have access to the investigation report to give my opinion or assessment.”
He said that NGO’s role remains limited to promoting awareness, guidance, and adherence to traffic laws as “it has been accustomed to for 30 years.”


Fulham come from behind to beat Newcastle 2-1

Fulham come from behind to beat Newcastle 2-1
Updated 34 min 45 sec ago
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Fulham come from behind to beat Newcastle 2-1

Fulham come from behind to beat Newcastle 2-1
  • Salah double leads Liverpool to win at Bournemouth; Forest enjoys 7-0 rout

LONDON: Fulham came from behind to beat Newcastle 2-1 away on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah’s controversial penalty put Liverpool on course for a 2-0 win at Bournemouth as the Premier League leaders moved nine points clear.

Arne Slot’s side took the lead in the first half when Salah netted with a penalty awarded after Cody Gakpo appeared to trip over his own feet rather than go down from Lewis Cook’s challenge.

Bournemouth were left outraged after referee Darren England’s on-field decision was upheld by VAR.

Also on Saturday, Chris Wood netted a hat trick as Nottingham Forest thrashed Brighton 7-0 to reignite their charge toward next season’s Champions League at the City Ground.

Morgan Gibbs-White, Neco Williams and Jota Silva were also on target after Lewis Dunk’s own goal opened the scoring in an astonishing performance from Nuno Espirito Santo’s men as they bounced back from a 5-0 defeat at Bournemouth last weekend. Victory takes Forest level on points with second-placed Arsenal and opens up a seven-point cushion on sixth-placed Chelsea.

Fifth place in the Premier League this season is almost certain to be enough for Champions League qualification due to a strong start by English clubs in European competitions.

Two-time European Cup winners in 1979 and 1980 during the club’s heyday under Brian Clough, Forest last played in Europe back in 1996.

But a run of 10 wins from their last 12 games has put them well on course to end that two-decade wait for continental competition.

Forest became just the second side in Premier League history to respond to losing a game by five or more goals by winning by that margin.

In German football, Harry Kane scored twice and Bayern Munich almost squandered a four-goal lead before holding on for a 4-3 victory over promoted Holstein Kiel.

Kiel threatened a remarkable comeback when Steven Skrzybski scored twice in stoppage time after Finn Porath pulled one back for the visitors.

Kane took his league-leading tally to 19 goals by scoring either side of the break after Jamal Musiala opened the scoring in the 19th minute, set up by Michael Olize.

Bayern was headed for a comfortable win when substitute Serge Gnabry controlled the ball with his right boot then smashed in a volley with his left in the 54th. But then Porath scored and Skrzybski’s late goals meant the home team had to suffer.

Defending champion Bayer Leverkusen will look to stay six points behind Bayern when it hosts Hoffenheim on Sunday.

Kiel remained second from bottom after 20 rounds.