Syrian rebels appoint new prime minister as regional tensions rise

Syria's leading rebel group has appointed Mohammad al-Bashir as the new prime minister of its transitional government. Al-Bashir previously led an administration in Idlib under Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the dominant rebel faction now advancing into Damascus. Israel plans to establish a "sterile defensive zone" along its southern border in response to recent military actions against Syrian naval and military sites. Meanwhile, Turkey has intensified its bombing of Kurdish targets in northern Syria, raising concerns about the stability of U.S. military operations in the region. The U.S. has called for an inclusive political process in Syria, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken stating that recognition of the new government will depend on its adherence to these standards. The situation remains fluid, with international discussions expected to take place in Geneva soon.