Fuel price rise protests rock Syriaidespread protests are continuing across Syria, with the public demanding that the Syrian transitional government (STG) reverse the recent fuel price increase and address the cost-of-living crisis as poverty and inequality worsen nationwide.
Demonstrations began in the east of the country on September 9 before quickly spreading to other regions. As escalations continued this week, groups of protesters blocked roads with burning tires, bus drivers went on strike in several cities, bringing transportation to a halt along key routes, and demonstrators blocked border crossings with Iraq and Turkey.
Why are protests occurring?
A new price list announced by the STG’s Committee for Petroleum Pricing came into effect on September 13. Fuel prices were raised sharply, pushing costs outside affordable levels for most Syrians. This also impacted the cost of key goods and services, including public transportation and the agricultural sector.
The protest action follows months of rising public dissatisfaction related to the high cost of bread, transport, and electricity. In Hasakah governorate, local reports show dozens of bakeries pausing operations and market activities halting in several towns in protest at the latest price rise.
Diesel costs are up almost 40% while gasoline prices have risen by almost 30%. Diesel is used for the transport sector, as well as for bakeries and electricity generators. The national power grid requires major rehabilitation after the war years, with many areas relying solely on diesel-powered generators. The farming sector also stands to be hard hit, with agricultural production costs rising.
Product14.09.2026 price04.09.2026 priceDifference
95-octane gasoline195 SYP/L ($1.46)152 SYP/L ($1.14)+28%
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