Unprecedented wave of protests continues in Syria: "They are starving us, we will not be silent!"

The wave of protests in Syria continues for a third day following a dramatic surge in fuel prices. The demonstrations, the most widespread since the fall of the Assad regime, included road blockades and tire burning. The spike in fuel and gas prices, presented as temporary, is attributed to global increases and a decline in local production. 90% of residents live below the poverty line, making the blow particularly severe.

The wave of protests in Syria continues for a third consecutive day, following the dramatic surge in fuel prices announced on the night between Saturday and Sunday. The demonstrations, described as the most widespread since the fall of the Assad regime in late 2024, included blockades of major roads and tire burning in various locations. The price hike was presented as temporary and was attributed to global price increases amid the war in Iran and a decline in local production capacity due to maintenance at the Baniyas refinery. The price of 95-octane gasoline surged by 28% and diesel by 40%, and since February, the price of octane has risen by 86% while diesel has more than doubled. In Syria, where 90% of residents live below the poverty line, the blow is particularly severe. The protests were concentrated mainly in the northern and eastern provinces, and their scope has diminished from the peak earlier this week. Clashes were reported in Hama and a public transport drivers' strike in the Al-Hasakah area. The article quotes protesters and media sources but does not include an official response from the Syrian government.