In the past two days, intense clashes in Syria have resulted in the deaths of at least 147 people, marking the most violent confrontations since the overthrow of former dictator Bashar al-Assad last December, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The hostilities unfolded in the Latakia and Tartus provinces, areas traditionally considered strongholds for al-Assad along the Syrian Mediterranean coast. These regions have become volatile since the fall of the Assad regime.
The violence erupted on Thursday afternoon when loyalists to the ousted Assad launched a deadly ambush in the Latakia countryside, killing 16 members of Syria’s new security personnel. This incident is recorded as the deadliest attack against the new authorities to date. In response, the government deployed a significant number of security forces in an effort to reclaim control over towns and villages seized by armed gunmen loyal to Assad.
By Friday afternoon, government forces had yet to reestablish full control over some areas, leaving the authorities facing a potential loss of the coastal regions. Armed Assad loyalists were reported to be holding several hostages in Jableh, a key city in Latakia, creating further instability. Most residents in affected areas, including Latakia and Tartus, stayed indoors, as security forces conducted operations to locate and detain armed remnants of the former regime.
The clashes ignited simultaneous protests across Syria, as thousands took to the streets in major cities on Thursday night and Friday either to back government forces or to demand their withdrawal from the coastal areas. These demonstrations are the first of their kind since the new government assumed power.
Syria’s interim foreign minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, addressed the nation via social media, stating, “From the first day, we have faced a covert and open war aimed at breaking the will of the Syrian people.” He assured citizens that Syria is moving forward with determination despite attempts to sow chaos and create political isolation.
Tensions remain high in coastal regions, which present significant challenges for the Sunni Muslim-led government. The area is home to the Alawite minority, including the Assad family, who have historically held considerable influence, despite being only 10% of the population.
While many Assad loyalists have surrendered their weapons at reconciliation centers set up by the new government, some factions continue to resist, leading to sporadic attacks on government forces. Thursday’s ambush was notable for its scale and coordination amid calls from some factions to organize resistance against the new regime.
In Tartus and Latakia, most locals do not support the Assad loyalists. Ahmad Qandil, a local leader in Jableh, emphasized that the community seeks peace and stability over conflict. “We want safety, security,” he stated. The region remains under a de facto curfew as the new government works to stabilize the situation.
As Syria navigates this critical juncture, the government faces an ongoing test as it seeks to consolidate power following a 14-year civil war and over 50 years under Assad family rule. The coming days will be decisive in determining if the new authorities can maintain control and lead the nation toward stability.
Original Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/07/world/middleeast/syria-clashes-assad.html
Category : Syria,Assad, Bashar al-,Latakia (Syria),Syrian Observatory for Human Rights,War and Armed Conflicts
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Publish Date: 2025-03-07 22:04:00
