DID Press: Protests erupted in several Syrian cities, including Hama and Khan Shaykhun, on Monday following a temporary increase in fuel prices.
Demonstrators blocked several major roads and burned tires in response to a 40% increase in diesel prices and a 28% rise in gasoline prices. The Syrian government attributed the price increases to rising global fuel costs and the expansion of the Baniyas refinery.
Syria produces about 102,000 barrels of oil per day, while domestic demand stands at roughly 325,000 barrels per day, leaving the country dependent on imports to cover the shortfall.