#BASHAR AL-ASSAD

Arda Kucukkaya/Anadolu via Getty Images

Syria’s leader: holding elections could take up to four years

Holding elections in Syria could take up to four years, Syria's de facto leader said in an interview with Al Arabiya, the first time he has commented on a possible timetable for elections since Bashar al-Assad was ousted this month.

Syria's new interim leaders have made "positive signals," but more is needed, said,

EU to keep sanctions on Syria until minority rights are guaranteed, says top official

The EU will not lift sanctions on Syria before its new rulers ensure minorities are not persecuted and women’s rights are protected within a unified government that disavows religious extremism, the EU’s top diplomat said.

Syrian opposition supporters celebrate in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights. NATO chief Mark Rutte called for the rebels to respect the rights of minorities. Photos: PAP/EPA/ABIR SULTAN; PAP/EPA/OLIVIER MATTHYS

NATO chief Rutte urges peaceful transition in Syria

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Monday called for a peaceful transition of power in Syria and an inclusive, Syrian-led political process.