RismadarVoice Reporters
September 14, 2026
Protests have erupted in several Syrian cities following sharp increases in fuel prices, with demonstrators burning tyres, gathering on major roads and blocking highways in opposition to the government’s latest measures.
The protests followed fuel price increases announced by the Syrian government on Sunday, with diesel prices rising by as much as 40 per cent and petrol prices increasing by up to 28 per cent.
The government described the increases as temporary, citing a sharp rise in the global cost of securing fuel supplies.
Demonstrations were reported in Hama, Khan Sheikhoun and Maarat al-Numan, while protesters also blocked a major highway for several hours. Footage from the affected areas showed crowds gathering on roads and burning tyres as anger over the higher prices spread.
The price increases also triggered intense debate on social media, reflecting growing concerns over the impact of higher fuel costs on households, transportation and businesses.
GOVERNMENT CITES REFINERY OVERHAUL
Syrian authorities said the fuel price increases were also linked to an overhaul of the country’s critical Baniyas refinery.
The government said the refurbishment is expected to increase the refinery’s processing capacity from about 80,000 barrels per day to 130,000 barrels per day.
Officials said the investment in refining capacity is intended to strengthen domestic fuel production and reduce pressure on supplies over the longer term.
The Ministry of Energy said it would continue reviewing fuel prices in response to changes in global market conditions while working to expand the country’s refining and fuel-storage capacity.
SYRIA DEPENDS HEAVILY ON IMPORTS
Syria’s domestic oil production remains significantly below the country’s fuel requirements.
Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir said the country currently produces about 102,000 barrels of oil per day, compared with domestic consumption needs of approximately 325,000 barrels per day.
The shortfall has left Syria dependent on imports to meet a substantial portion of its energy requirements.
The availability and affordability of fuel are particularly important to Syria’s economic recovery as the country attempts to rebuild infrastructure and revive economic activity following 14 years of war.
The latest protests highlight the economic pressures facing the government as it seeks to restore energy infrastructure while managing the cost of supplying fuel to a population already affected by years of conflict and economic hardship.
