“`html
Syria’s Political Situation (as of January 18, 2026)
Table of Contents
Syria remains in a fragile state following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad in december 2024, ending a 13-year civil war, and is currently led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, known as abu Mohammed al-Jolani.
The syrian conflict,beginning in 2011,involved multiple factions including the Syrian government,opposition groups,Kurdish forces,and extremist organizations like ISIS. The war resulted in a massive humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and significant infrastructure damage. UN Syria Humanitarian Situation
As of December 2024, rebel forces led by ahmed al-Sharaa successfully removed Assad from power, establishing a new government. Reuters report on Assad’s Fall (December 28, 2024)
Ahmed al-Sharaa (Abu Mohammed al-Jolani)
Ahmed al-Sharaa, operating under the nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, is the current president of Syria, having assumed office in December 2024 following the removal of Bashar al-Assad.
Prior to becoming president, al-Jolani was a prominent figure within Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a jihadist group operating in Syria. His leadership transition to the presidency reflects a complex shift in Syrian power dynamics. Council on Foreign Relations – Syria
Al-Jolani’s presidency has focused on stabilizing the country and addressing the aftermath of the civil war, though challenges remain regarding governance, economic recovery, and security. He announced a 10-point plan for national reconciliation in January 2025.Al Jazeera Report on Al-Jolani’s Plan (January 15, 2025)
ISIS Activity in Syria (as of January 18, 2026)
While significantly weakened, ISIS continues to operate in Syria, primarily conducting attacks against Kurdish-led forces in the north-east region as of 2025.
Following its territorial defeat in 2019, ISIS transitioned to an insurgency model, relying on guerilla tactics and exploiting instability to carry out attacks. The group maintains a presence in remote areas and seeks to recruit new members. U.S. Department of Defense – Defeat of ISIS Territorial Caliphate
In 2025, ISIS claimed responsibility for over 50 attacks in Syria, primarily targeting the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and government infrastructure. The SDF, with support from the international coalition, continues to lead the counter-ISIS operations. Long War Journal - ISIS in Syria (December 2025)
Recent Military Operations (December 20, 2025 – January 18, 2026)
Between December 20, 2025, and January 18, 2026, there have been 11 reported military missions conducted by various actors within Syria, primarily focused on counter-terrorism operations and maintaining regional stability.
These missions involved the syrian government forces, the SDF, and international coalition forces. The majority of operations targeted ISIS cells in Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa provinces.
