In recent days, Syria has witnessed intense violence between government security forces and militants loyal to ousted leader Bashar Al Assad. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, more than 70 people were killed and dozens wounded in clashes along the Syrian coast. These confrontations involved members of the Ministry of Defense and Interior against remnants of the defunct regime’s army. The fighting was particularly severe in the coastal town of Jableh and adjacent villages, where 48 people lost their lives. This marks some of the most violent attacks against the new authorities since Assad’s ousting.
The clashes resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Pro-Assad fighters killed 16 security personnel, while 28 fighters aligned with the ousted president and four civilians were also killed. Most of the security personnel killed were from the former rebel stronghold of Idlib in the northwest. During the operation, security forces captured a former head of air force intelligence, a key figure in the Assad family’s security apparatus. The fighting occurred in the Mediterranean coastal province of Latakia, a stronghold of Assad’s Alawite minority.
Tensions escalated after residents of Beit Ana prevented security forces from arresting an individual wanted for arms trading. This led to a security campaign in the area, resulting in clashes with gunmen. The killing of civilians during a security operation in Latakia further heightened tensions. Authorities have imposed curfews in the northwestern port town of Latakia and the port city of Tartous. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported strikes by Syrian helicopters on armed men in the village of Beit Ana and surrounding forests, coinciding with artillery strikes on a neighboring village.
The situation remains volatile, with large military reinforcements being deployed to the Jableh area. Alawite leaders have called for peaceful protests in response to helicopter strikes that targeted civilian homes. The new authorities in Syria have been conducting extensive campaigns to eliminate Assad loyalists from their former strongholds. However, these operations have been marred by reports of human rights violations, including seizures of homes, field executions, and kidnappings. Despite these challenges, Syria’s new authorities have vowed to address these issues and pursue those responsible.
The ongoing conflict highlights the complex and fragile state of security in Syria. As the country navigates this challenging period, it is crucial for international observers to monitor developments closely and support efforts to stabilize the region. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights continues to play a vital role in documenting these events, providing critical insights into the evolving situation on the ground.
