Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with Greek Orthodox Patriarch John X Yazigi at the People's Palace in Damascus, according to a report on August 17th. This meeting follows a reconciliation session held three days prior, initiated by a delegation led by the President's brother, Maher al-Sharaa. In parallel, Druze fighters in southern Syria demonstrated in Damascus, reportedly expressing opposition to the government. Sources indicate these fighters were equipped with vests intended for self-defense and voiced calls for the annexation of Israel. Separately, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are reportedly in urgent discussions regarding the handover of Raqqa to the Syrian state. An urgent meeting took place in Raqqa, arranged by the international coalition, involving SDF leader Mazloum Abdi, tribal leaders, and notables. The meeting in Raqqa discussed the transfer of control of the city to the Syrian state before the end of the month. SDF officers attempted to gain support from tribal leaders to maintain the SDF's presence, asserting their readiness to defend Raqqa. However, the consensus among attendees was in favor of the Syrian state's entry. During the Raqqa meeting, one attendee requested assurances for SDF members joining the Syrian state from government accountability, a concern the SDF stated they are not responsible for. The international coalition's response is reportedly expected by Thursday morning to avert potential Turkish-Syrian military action.
