With a ceasefire holding by a thread, this was an inauspicious time to visit anywhere in the area, let alone the country at the heart of the renewed conflict.
Syrian cities marked New Year’s Eve with large-scale celebrations amid tight security, just weeks after the ousting of former ruler Bashar al-Assad.
The infamous award came after the OCCRP called for citizens worldwide to nominate individuals worthy of taking the spotlight for their roles in advancing criminal activities.
Mr Khattab accused Mr al-Assad’s regime of exploiting the security apparatus to oppress Syrians.
The interior ministry said unknown groups perpetrated the violence and that its forces were working “night and day” to protect religious sites.
The U.S. military has said that it killed two fighters from the terrorist group Islamic State in Syria and wounded another.
The U.S. State Department is engaged with several UN bodies to ensure that the Syrian people receive answers and accountability.
Syrian exiles are not yet flooding back into their country, according to figures released on Friday by the UN refugee agency.
Mr Al-Assad fled the country after the offensive, bringing a sudden end to decades of repressive rule by his clan.
Hezbollah has confirmed the death of its Spokesman, Mohammed Afif, in an Israeli attack in Beirut.
