Protests in Christian Neighborhoods of Damascus

Demonstrators in Christian neighborhoods of Damascus protest after a Christmas tree burning raises concerns about the treatment of religious minorities post-Assad. New leader Ahmed al-Sharaa pledges to protect minorities, but fears remain due to extremist roots of rebel groups. U.S. considering removing HTS from terrorist list based on commitments from al-Sharaa. U.S. airstrike targets Islamic State operatives in Syria. Al-Sharaa works to unite rebel factions under defense ministry. Violence erupts in Manbij, highlighting need for cohesive security force.