Fuel Price Hikes Trigger Widespread Protests in Syria

Protests erupt in several Syrian cities after the government boosted diesel prices up to 40% and petrol by 28%, with demonstrators blocking a main highway and burning tyres. Officials say the raises reflect higher global fuel costs and an overhaul of the Baniyas refinery to raise capacity from 80,000 to 130,000 barrels per day; Syria, heavily dependent on imports, will review prices as conditions change while seeking to expand refining and storage to aid economic recovery.