Syria has witnessed its worst outbreak of violence since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad, with more than 70 people killed in clashes between forces aligned with the country’s new rulers and fighters loyal to the ousted regime. The coastal region, particularly Latakia and Tartous, has become the focal point of these battles, prompting authorities to impose a curfew to curb the escalating unrest.
The British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the fighting erupted when government forces were ambushed during a security operation in Latakia. In response, reinforcements were deployed to counter the attack. The clashes quickly spread to other cities, including Homs and Aleppo, further intensifying tensions in the war-torn country.
BBC Verify confirmed the authenticity of two videos showing gunmen setting fire to a building in Homs. Reports indicate that gunmen, some of whom are former regime loyalists, have taken control of military zones in the Latakia mountains, using them as bases for launching attacks. Meanwhile, other fighters have holed up in the city of Jableh, resisting government forces.
The Observatory stated that of the 71 people killed, 35 were government soldiers, 32 were former regime fighters, and four were civilians. The clashes have also left many others wounded. Additionally, government-aligned forces reportedly killed around 70 former regime fighters, with more than 25 captured in and around Jableh, according to the Syrian-based Step news agency.
In response to the escalating conflict, Syria’s Defence Ministry issued a stern warning to Assad loyalists. Colonel Hassan Abdul Ghani urged them to surrender, stating, “Thousands have chosen to lay down their weapons and return to their families. Those who refuse will meet their inevitable fate.”
The deteriorating security situation poses a significant challenge for interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who is also grappling with resistance in the south, particularly from Druze forces. Meanwhile, Syria’s foreign minister recently assured the global chemical weapons watchdog of the government’s commitment to eliminating any remaining stockpiles from the Assad era. However, allegations persist that Assad’s regime carried out multiple chemical attacks during the 14-year civil war.
As Syria navigates this volatile period, the new government faces an uphill battle in restoring stability amid lingering tensions and deep-seated divisions.
