Syria has been rocked by its most significant wave of protests in nearly two years following a sharp government-mandated increase in fuel costs. Over the weekend, diesel prices surged by 40 percent, while costs for gasoline and industrial gas also saw double-digit hikes. Frustrated citizens have responded by blocking major thoroughfares, including the vital route between Damascus and Aleppo, and staging demonstrations that demand the resignation of key energy and economic officials. With the United Nations reporting that 90 percent of the population now lives in poverty, residents argue that these added costs have made daily survival nearly impossible.

The government maintains that these price adjustments are a necessary, temporary response to rising global procurement costs and a severe supply squeeze. Officials pointed to reduced crude imports from Russia, which has curtailed exports due to its own refinery issues, and the temporary closure of Syria’s primary Baniyas refinery as key factors behind the crisis. However, for ordinary Syrians like taxi drivers and laborers, the explanation offers little comfort. As transit and food costs begin to climb in response to the fuel spikes, many fear they are being pushed to the brink, emphasizing that they are struggling to afford basic necessities rather than seeking political favors.