A wave of violence has swept through coastal villages in Syria, killing over 200 people in clashes between government forces and loyalists of ousted President Bashar Assad. The fighting broke out on Thursday, with gunmen loyal to the new government storming several villages near the coast, including Sheer, Mukhtariyeh, and Haffah.
According to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, more than 140 men were killed in apparent revenge attacks in these villages, while at least 50 members of Syria’s government forces and 45 fighters loyal to Assad were also killed. The violence has marked the worst clashes since Assad’s government was toppled in early December by insurgent groups.
The new government has pledged to unite Syria after 14 years of civil war, but the fighting highlights ongoing sectarian tensions between Alawite communities and the new administration. Damascus sent reinforcements to coastal cities, including Latakia and Tartus, which are home to Assad’s minority Alawite sect.
Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa called on armed groups affiliated with the former government to hand over their weapons, while also urging those loyal to the new government to avoid attacking civilians or abusing prisoners. However, experts warn that the violence could stoke more sectarian tensions and create a security challenge for the government.
Russia’s foreign ministry has issued a statement reaffirming its support for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while Turkey warned that targeting security forces could undermine efforts to lead Syria into unity and solidarity. The situation remains volatile, with many civilians living in fear of retribution.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/latakia-syria-clashes-assad-loyalists-alawites-ef7496972e037db8e90c77a5f498d721