A top Syrian official, Deputy Oil Minister Abdo Hussameddin, has defected to the opposition through an announcement on YouTube. Hussameddin is the highest ranking Syrian government official to switch sides since the rebellion began over a year ago.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!