Syria's new caretaker prime minister takes office as Damascus reopens and Israel increases airstrikes

Syria's new caretaker prime minister, Mohammed al-Bashir, has taken charge with support from rebels who ousted former president Bashar al-Assad. Al-Bashir, previously an administrator in rebel-held Idlib, will lead until March 1. In Damascus, banks and shops have reopened, and armed presence has decreased as rebel fighters withdraw from cities. The United Nations envoy noted positive messages from rebel groups, suggesting a shift towards inclusivity. Israel has intensified airstrikes in Syria, targeting military stockpiles and infrastructure to prevent weapons from falling into rebel hands. Israeli troops have also moved into a demilitarized zone, claiming the action is for border security.