Syrian prime minister asserts government remains operational despite challenges and refugee returns

Syria's Prime Minister Mohammed Ghazi Jalali stated that the government remains operational despite the recent overthrow of President Bashar Assad. Most cabinet ministers are still working in Damascus, although some government services have halted due to state workers not returning to their jobs. Refugees are returning to Syria, seeking a more peaceful future. The rebel alliance, now in control, is led by a former al-Qaida militant who has promised a representative government. However, challenges persist, including a lack of coordination among various armed groups. In northern Syria, Turkey-backed forces have taken the town of Manbij from Kurdish-led forces. Israel has conducted airstrikes on suspected chemical weapons sites to prevent them from falling into extremist hands, amid ongoing concerns about security in the region.