Aleppo's historic soap-making industry, renowned for its traditional methods using olive and laurel oils, is experiencing a revival despite the challenges posed by the Syrian war and natural disasters. The industry, which once boasted around 120 factories, now has only 15 remaining. However, the resilience of soap makers like Hisham al-Jubaili, whose family has been in the business for 700 years, is helping to restore Aleppo's markets. The soap, known for its quality and long curing process, is gaining popularity again, with market activity increasing significantly. The article highlights the cultural significance and enduring legacy of Aleppo soap, as well as the optimism of local merchants like Bisher Nasimi.

The article discusses the impact of Israel's military incursion into Quneitra, Syria, following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. Residents like Ibrahim al-Dakheel and Maysoun al-Faouri face displacement and uncertainty as Israeli forces advance, citing security concerns related to Hezbollah and Iran. The occupation has disrupted local life, with fears of indefinite Israeli presence despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's assurances of temporariness. The historical context of the Golan Heights' occupation adds to the tension, as Syrians like Mohammad al-Fayyad express frustration over the loss of hope and celebration following al-Assad's ousting.

In Damascus, the Christmas celebrations this year are marked by a renewed sense of hope and optimism following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Residents express joy and anticipation for a peaceful future, decorating their homes and streets with festive lights and the Free Syria flag. Despite apprehensions about the future, there is a collective sense of relief and unity among Syrians, who are eager to prove their love for peace and move past the horrors of the past regime.

Displaced Syrians, including Nizar al-Madani and Nadeedah Hannawi, return to their former neighborhood in Qaboun, Damascus, only to find it demolished by the al-Assad regime. The regime's use of Law No. 10 of 2018 facilitated the confiscation of properties from those unable to prove ownership. Despite the destruction, residents express hope and determination to rebuild their homes and communities following the regime's fall.

The article reports on the liberation of Sednaya prison in Syria by opposition fighters, revealing the harsh conditions and human rights abuses faced by prisoners. Thousands of Syrians are searching for missing relatives believed to have been detained in the notorious 'slaughterhouse.' Despite the release of many prisoners, the fate of numerous detainees remains unknown, leaving families in a state of uncertainty. The article highlights the ongoing struggle for information and justice, with personal accounts from those affected by the regime's oppressive actions.

Syrians celebrated the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, marking the end of years of oppression and tyranny. The article captures the joy and relief of citizens in cities like Homs and Damascus, who express hope for a democratic future. The overthrow was achieved by a coalition of opposition fighters, and the sentiment towards the Assad regime is overwhelmingly negative, while the opposition is viewed positively. The narrative highlights personal stories of loss, resilience, and the aspiration for justice and freedom in a post-Assad Syria.

Floods have severely impacted camps for displaced people in Syria's Idlib, with 278 tents destroyed and 513 damaged. The heavy rainfall has affected camps in Idlib city and along the Turkish border, displacing many families. The White Helmets have been working to mitigate the damage, but the intensity of the rain has overwhelmed efforts. The situation has left many camps isolated, with roads cut off and essential supplies difficult to secure.

The pomegranate festival in Darkoush, Idlib, Syria, marks its third year, celebrating local produce and resilience amidst ongoing conflict. The event, featuring a pomegranate competition and various cultural activities, aims to convey a message of love, resistance, and rebuilding. Organizers and participants, like Samer Alwani and Ahmed Salem Khadro, emphasize the festival's cultural and political significance, while attendees like Salam Hamido find solace and escape from the war-torn environment. The festival showcases the region's renowned pomegranate varieties and products, highlighting the community's dedication to agriculture and cultural heritage.

Local actors in Idlib perform 'Under Zero,' a play by Ibrahim Sarmini that depicts the torture and mental strain experienced by prisoners in Syrian government prisons. Idlib remains a rare place for open criticism of President Bashar al-Assad. The play resonates deeply with the audience, many of whom have personal connections to the Syrian prison system. The article highlights the ongoing human rights abuses in Syria, including the widespread use of torture, as evidenced by the 2013 Caesar leaks. Despite the war's devastation of Syria's arts industry, the performance captivated the audience, reflecting the region's enduring cultural resilience.

Ali Saleh al-Taha, a 58-year-old native of Palmyra, fled to al-Bab in Aleppo after the Islamic State captured Palmyra in 2015. Driven by a desire to preserve the memory of Palmyra's historic ruins, Taha uses plaster to recreate scaled replicas of the city's ancient structures, including the Temple of Baal. His work is informed by his extensive experience in archaeology and the legacy of his family. Despite personal losses and physical challenges, Taha is committed to educating future generations about Palmyra's cultural heritage.