Fuel Crisis Hits Syria’s Economy: Protests erupted across Syria after diesel prices jumped 40% and gasoline rose sharply, with demonstrators blocking major roads and oil tanker routes and burning tires; the unrest is now Syria’s biggest domestic challenge since the Assad fall, and parliament has summoned the energy minister as the government says the hikes are temporary amid import and refinery constraints. Roadblocks and Supply Strain: Reports from Hasakah and other provinces describe highway blockades near key corridors, leaving tankers idle and raising fears for transport, electricity and food costs. Energy Policy Meets Politics: The price shock is also pushing Syria’s new leadership into a high-stakes test of credibility and governance as lawmakers demand explanations and citizens link “global oil prices” to “global incomes.” US-Syria Business Talks: In Damascus, a US Chamber of Commerce delegation met Syrian officials to explore investment and expand economic ties, signaling a push to open the private sector and integrate with the international economy. Iraq-to-Syria Pipeline Push: TotalEnergies is reportedly seeking a stake in a consortium planning a Basra-Baniyas pipeline to reroute Iraqi oil exports toward Syria’s Mediterranean coast. Regional Pressure on Shipping: Iran-linked tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and Houthi activity continue to threaten energy flows, adding another layer of risk to Syria’s already fragile fuel situation.