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Syria's Deadliest Days: Over 1,000 Killed in Clashes and Revenge Killings

In a tragic escalation of violence, over 1,000 people have lost their lives in Syria during two days of intense clashes and revenge killings. The conflict erupted between Syrian security forces and loyalists of ousted President Bashar al-Assad, with sectarian violence targeting the Alawite community, a key support base of the former regime. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the death toll includes 745 civilians, 125 government security personnel, and 148 militants. The violence has left areas like Latakia without electricity and water, further deepening the humanitarian crisis. The revenge killings, primarily carried out by Sunni Muslim gunmen, have devastated Alawite villages, with reports of targeted shootings, looting, and arson. Thousands have fled to the mountains seeking safety, while bodies remain unburied in the streets of towns like Baniyas. This marks one of the deadliest episodes in Syria's 14-year conflict, raising fears of further inst...

Healthy Meals: Lentil Soup



Here's a classic Lentil Soup recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)


Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lentils:

  • Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain them.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Add Spices and Garlic:

  • Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika (if using), and bay leaf. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.

4. Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes:

  • Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable or chicken broth, and diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

5. Season and Finish:

  • Once the lentils are cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove and discard the bay leaf.
  • Stir in the lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor.

6. Serve:

  • Ladle the lentil soup into bowls.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

This lentil soup is hearty, nutritious, and perfect for a comforting meal. You can also customize it by adding other vegetables or spices to suit your taste.





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