Clashes in Syria: Overview of Recent Unrest and Responses
The recent clashes in Syria have led to hundreds of fatalities and heightened fear among residents in Latakia and Tartous. The Syrian government claims to have concluded operations against pro-Assad armed groups after four days of conflict, with casualties reported at over 1,311. This violence is linked to escalating sectarian tensions following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, requiring urgent attention from the interim government.
Recent clashes in Syria have resulted in widespread fear among residents of coastal governorates, particularly Latakia and Tartous, where fighting between security forces and pro-Assad armed groups has escalated. Following four days of violence, the Syrian government claims to have concluded its operational response. This turmoil arises just three months after Bashar al-Assad’s fall, igniting unrest among those loyal to the former regime.
The clashes began on March 6, with government forces deploying to cities like Latakia, Banias, Tartous, and Jableh to confront what they referred to as “regime remnants”. This term designates pro-Assad fighters who oppose the new government. The Alawite sect, historically supporting al-Assad, predominantly inhabits these regions.
The initial violence erupted when pro-Assad gunmen ambushed military personnel, resulting in the deaths of at least 16 security forces members. As tensions have mounted, reports indicate that over 1,311 individuals have lost their lives since the outbreak of violence, including both civilians and combatants.
The Latakia-Tartous region is significant due to its Alawite majority and its status as a stronghold for the Assad family. Concerns of potential retaliatory strikes against Alawites surfaced after Assad’s fall. This tension may have prompted recent attacks by regime loyalists, alongside efforts to capture Syria’s largest oil refinery located in Banias.
The conflict involves former officers from Assad’s army and unidentified combatants, some of whom are reportedly taking measures to “avenge” the attacked security personnel. Reports of harassment and kidnapping of Alawite civilians have intensified amid this unrest. The Syrian government acknowledges thousands of armed individuals currently within these coastal areas.
The Assad regime’s remnants include former military officials who have formed groups aimed at countering perceived violations against their community. This includes a coalition led by Muqdad Fteiha and another by Brigadier General Ghiath Suleiman Dalla, both vowing to liberate Syria and dismantle the security structures perceived as oppressive.
In response to the escalating crisis, interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa announced the establishment of two committees. One is tasked with investigating the March 6 assaults and ensuring accountability, while the other will engage with residents to bolster security in affected areas. Al-Sharaa has underscored the urgency of national unity during these trying times.
Civilians in the coastal regions express deep-seated fears, with one anonymous resident from Latakia stating that they avoid going outside due to the lack of security. The atmosphere of terror pervades, as the threat of armed attacks looms large in everyday life for the beleaguered residents.
The recent clashes in Syria, particularly in the coastal governorates of Latakia and Tartous, reflect a challenging aftermath to the Assad regime’s fall. With significant casualties reported and the fear of sectarian violence escalating, the Syrian government faces pressing tasks to restore order and ensure the safety of civilians. The involvement of pro-Assad fighters and the formation of opposition groups intensify the complexity of the situation, highlighting urgent needs for accountability and national unity.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
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