Syrian Forces Clash with Assad Loyalists in Intensifying Latakia Battles

Syrian government forces have engaged in fierce battles with remnants of the ousted Assad regime in Latakia province, marking some of the deadliest confrontations since Bashar al-Assad’s fall in December. Reports indicate that dozens have been killed in the fighting near a Russian-controlled airbase, prompting authorities to impose a curfew until Friday morning.

Escalating Conflict in Assad’s Former Stronghold

Latakia, a key coastal region and historical stronghold of the Assad family, remains a hotspot for resistance against the new Islamist government in Damascus. Clashes have also erupted in Homs and Aleppo, with unverified social media footage capturing heavy gunfire in residential areas.

State news agency Sana reported that “huge military reinforcements” were being deployed to Jableh, a city at the center of the ongoing violence.

Conflicting Death Toll Reports

Estimates of casualties vary. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based war monitor, reported that more than 70 people had been killed and dozens wounded. Meanwhile, Syria-based Step news agency claimed that government-aligned forces had killed about 70 former regime fighters and captured more than 25 others.

Government’s Stern Warning

Syria’s defense ministry issued a strong message to Assad loyalists through state media.

“Thousands have chosen to surrender their weapons and return to their families, while some insist on fleeing and dying in defense of murderers and criminals. The choice is clear: lay down your weapons or face your inevitable fate,” said ministry spokesperson Colonel Hassan Abdul Ghani.

Security Challenges for New Leadership

Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa is grappling with significant security challenges, not only in the Alawite-dominated Latakia province but also in the south, where clashes with Druze forces have intensified.

Additionally, the new government is working to dismantle remnants of Assad-era policies, including the destruction of chemical weapons stockpiles. While Assad’s government denied using chemical weapons during Syria’s 14-year war, international activists have accused it of numerous attacks.

As tensions escalate, the battle for control over Syria’s fractured landscape continues, raising concerns of further instability in the region.