An escalation of violence in the war-torn region of north-west Syria has left over 70 people dead and many more injured in recent clashes between government security forces and militants supporting ousted leader Bashar al-Assad. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the battles in the coastal town of Jableh and neighboring villages marked the most significant attacks against the new authorities since Assad’s removal in December. Pro-Assad fighters claimed the lives of at least 16 security personnel, while over 28 loyalists to the deposed president, along with four civilians, were also killed in the confrontations.
The unrest unfolded in the Mediterranean coastal province of Latakia, a stronghold of the ousted president’s Alawite minority. Mustafa Kneifati, a security official in Latakia, described the attacks as well-coordinated and deliberate, resulting in casualties among their forces, although specific figures were not disclosed. Kneifati asserted that security forces would take action to eliminate the assailants and restore stability in the area while safeguarding the community’s welfare.
Video footage circulated on social platforms depicted Syrian forces engaging in combat with pro-Assad militants in Homs. The Syrian Observatory revealed that most of the security personnel casualties were from Idlib, a former rebel stronghold in the northwest. During the operation, security forces apprehended a former head of air force intelligence, accused of numerous assassinations under the previous Assad regime.
In response to the violent incidents, increased security measures have been implemented in the capital. A defence ministry source disclosed that significant military reinforcements were being dispatched to the Jableh vicinity. Alawite leaders issued a call for peaceful demonstrations following helicopter strikes that allegedly targeted civilian residences, urging for a non-violent response to the escalating hostilities.
According to SANA, security forces have enforced overnight curfews in Alawite-populated areas such as Latakia, Tartus, and Homs. Elsewhere in the country, gatherings in support of the security forces were reported. Tensions escalated in Beit Ana when residents prevented security forces from arresting an individual wanted for arms trading, as per the Observatory. A swift offensive by Islamist rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, resulted in the overthrow of Assad on December 8. The new security forces in the country have been conducting extensive campaigns to eradicate Assad loyalists from their former strongholds. Numerous reports from residents and organizations have cited violations during these campaigns, including property seizures, executions, and abductions. The new Syrian authorities have labeled these violations as “isolated incidents” and have pledged to hold those responsible accountable. Explore top-notch British journalism by trying out The Telegraph for free for 1 month, providing unlimited access to their acclaimed website, exclusive app, money-saving deals, and more.
