Syria Direct

Red lines and death threats: Freedom of expression wanes in Suwayda ✍️ @walid_ALnofal syriadirect.org/red-lines-and-…

9⃣ "Free, independent media pleases nobody—not the authorities in Suwayda, and not the authorities in Damascus," said one journalist working at an outlet inside Suwayda. "We are facing a conflict of narratives that involves journalists from both sides."

🧵 Under pressure and death threats, a number of journalists and activists have fled Suwayda in recent months as the space for free expression narrows in the Druze-majority southern province. 🔗 bit.ly/4sb9w3A

Why did Germany keep a report used to justify deportations to Syria a secret? ✍️ @Cosettemolijn and @AnasAmbri syriadirect.org/why-did-german…

7⃣ BAMF said its reports reflect "the evolving situation in Syria at the time of their preparation" and "cannot claim to provide comprehensive coverage of all issues relevant to asylum and migration."

🧵 Germany kept a report used to justify post-Assad deportations to Syria confidential for nearly a year before quietly releasing it last week. It appears to contain inaccuracies. 🔗 bit.ly/4v1WfwA

In southern Syria, echoes of the US-Israeli war with Iran hit close to home ✍️ @subhash_anagha and Oudai Efnikher syriadirect.org/in-southern-sy…

5⃣ Israel’s operations in southern Syria are a "way of diversifying [their] footprint in the Levant," said @CarolineRose8 of @NewLinesInst. Increased patrols likely aim to "create the impression they are deepening their presence," she said.

🧵 While not a direct target of the escalating conflict between Israel, the US, Iran and Hezbollah, southern Syria is feeling its fallout—from drone debris to increased patrols by occupying forces. 🔗 bit.ly/3PgzoNG