Syria fuel price hikes spark widespread protests

Syria's government raised fuel prices on September 13, 2026, triggering widespread protests described as the most significant since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad. The increases, which took effect at midnight, saw diesel prices jump by 40% to 175 Syrian pounds per litre and petrol prices rise by up to 28%. The hikes prompted immediate demonstrations across the country, with protesters blocking major roads, including the highway linking Damascus to Aleppo, and burning tyres. Unrest was reported in cities such as Aleppo, Hama, Deir Ezzor, Hasakah, and Idlib. In some locations, demonstrators intercepted oil tankers heading toward refineries. The protests represent the most widespread anti-government demonstrations since Assad's regime collapsed in December 2024. Syria's Energy Ministry attributed the price adjustments to a temporary rise in global procurement costs and the shutdown of the Baniyas refinery for comprehensive maintenance. The ministry stated the measures were necessary to ensure the continued flow of petroleum products amid higher supply costs.