Syria fuel price hikes test public patience with economic recovery

Protests erupted in several Syrian cities, with demonstrators blocking roads and burning tires in response to rising fuel prices. The government announced a 40% increase in diesel prices, at least a 25% rise in petrol prices, and around a 9% increase in cooking gas, attributing these hikes to a spike in refined petroleum costs. Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir has been summoned by the Syrian parliament to address public outrage over the cost of living crisis.