Introduction: A Nation in Turmoil
Syria, a land of ancient history and resilient people, faces fresh turmoil in 2025 as an armed group attacks Russia’s Hmeimim air base in Latakia. This article delves into the attack’s implications, celebrates Syria’s enduring culture through a beloved dish, offers a soothing folk remedy, and reflects on mental health and space exploration, weaving a story of courage amid chaos.
Attack on Hmeimim Air Base: A New Chapter in Syria’s Conflict
On May 20, 2025, an armed group linked to Syria’s new government launched a brief but bold attack on Russia’s Hmeimim air base in Latakia province, a key military outpost. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the group, infiltrating from a nearby village, used medium and heavy machine guns, with drones deployed in the air. A witness described hearing “gunfire and shells” for an hour starting at 7 AM, as alarm sirens echoed across the base. Around 2,500 people, mostly Alawites fleeing March’s sectarian violence that killed over 1,700, remain sheltered at Hmeimim. Russia, which operates Hmeimim and a naval base in Tartus, faces uncertainty after Bashar al-Assad’s December 2024 overthrow, with Western nations pressuring Damascus to close these bases. Read more about the attack.
[](https://www.brecorder.com/news/40363774/armed-group-attacks-russian-base-in-syria-monitor-witness)Geopolitical Shift: Assad’s Overthrow in 2024
The December 2024 overthrow of Bashar al-Assad, Russia’s longtime ally, marked a seismic shift in Syria’s geopolitics. Rebel forces, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, toppled Assad’s regime, raising questions about Russia’s strategic bases. In February 2025, President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed support for Syria’s new leader, Sharaa, emphasizing “deep strategic interests” in an Al Arabiya interview, as Syrian weapons and power stations rely on Russian expertise. This event underscores Syria’s complex transition and global stakes. Learn about Syria’s transition.
[](https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/armed-group-attacks-russian-base-in-syria-monitor-witness)A Taste of Syria: Fatteh Recipe
Amid conflict, Syria’s culinary heritage offers comfort. Fatteh, a layered dish of bread, yogurt, and chickpeas, symbolizes community and resilience.
Fatteh Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 pita breads, toasted and broken into pieces
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Layer toasted pita pieces in a serving dish.
- Heat chickpeas in a pan with olive oil, cumin, and salt; spread over pita.
- Mix yogurt with garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and salt; pour over chickpeas.
- Top with toasted pine nuts and parsley.
- Serve immediately, sharing with loved ones.
Fatteh’s communal nature reflects Syria’s enduring spirit, uniting people through shared meals.
Folk Medicine: Chamomile Tea for Calm
In Syria, chamomile tea is a cherished remedy for stress and anxiety. Steep 1 tbsp of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain, and sip. This gentle tea offers solace to those enduring conflict, like the refugees at Hmeimim, fostering moments of peace.
Mental Health in Syria: A Crisis Deepens
Ongoing conflict has worsened mental health in Syria, with 2025 reports estimating 1 in 3 Syrians experience depression or anxiety due to violence and displacement. Humanitarian groups urge trauma-focused care and community support, like sharing Fatteh, to heal. Explore mental health challenges.
Syria and Space: A Russian Connection
In 2025, Russia’s space collaboration with Syria continues, with Roscosmos aiding satellite launches for regional monitoring, as reported in March. This partnership, tied to Russia’s Hmeimim operations, highlights Syria’s role in broader scientific efforts despite turmoil. Discover space news.
Conclusion: Syria’s Unyielding Spirit
From the Hmeimim attack to Assad’s fall, Syria navigates a turbulent path. Yet, through dishes like Fatteh and remedies like chamomile tea, its people find strength. As global powers vie for influence, Syria’s resilience shines. Share your thoughts—how can we support Syria’s recovery?
Written by AFP for Planet-Today.com