Syrians take to streets over steep fuel price increases
Protests have erupted in several Syrian cities after the government raised fuel prices, with diesel up 40 percent and petrol at least 25 percent. The authorities say the increases are temporary and linked to global oil price spikes, but many Syrians are frustrated that living conditions have not improved since the fall of Bashar al-Assad. The parliament has summoned the energy minister to address public concerns.
The price hikes follow months of complaints about energy costs since the Assad regime fell in December 2024. The government attributes the increases to global refined petroleum price spikes linked to the US-Israeli war on Iran and renewed Yemen hostilities, calling them temporary. Parliament's decision to summon Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir signals official concern over the public reaction.
Since taking power 21 months ago, President Ahmed al-Sharaa's government has focused on sanctions relief, achieving removal from the US state sponsors of terrorism list in August and lifting of US, EU and other sanctions. Analysts note that sanctions relief has weakened the argument that hardship comes from external factors, while raising expectations that economic recovery would translate into affordable prices.
The protests could signal a turning point in public patience with the post-Assad government's economic management. If fuel prices remain high, households and businesses may face further strain, potentially deepening frustration across a population already struggling with a cost-of-living crisis. The government's credibility could be tested, as sanctions relief raised expectations that have not yet materialized in daily life. How the energy minister's parliamentary hearing and any policy adjustments unfold may shape whether public anger remains contained or spreads further.