Fierce clashes in Latakia as Syrian Security Forces confront Assad loyalists

Department of Research, Studies and International News 07-03-2025

In a series of violent clashes, armed groups loyal to ousted Syrian leader Bashar alAssad launched deadly ambushes on security personnel in the coastal province of Latakia. The attacks, which took place near the town of Jableh, resulted in the deaths of at least 15 security officers.

A Coordinated Attack in Assad’s Stronghold

Latakia, a strategic coastal province and stronghold of the Alawite sect, has become the center of a growing security crisis. The Alawite minority, to which the Assad family belongs, has historically played a significant role in Syria’s political and military landscape. The recent attacks reflect the ongoing tensions between remnants of Assad-era loyalists and the newly established government.

A Syrian security source reported that the ambushes were strategically planned and carried out in multiple locations. “The Syrian state will assert its authority over all armed groups operating outside the law. We will not allow security to be compromised,” the source stated.

Government Response and Rising Tensions

Following the ambushes, tensions escalated in the region. Resul Serdar described the attacks as one of the most significant security challenges faced by the new government since the fall of Assad’s regime three months ago.

In response, the government quickly deployed reinforcements, with military units arriving in Latakia from various governorates, including Hama, Homs, and Idlib. Dozens of military vehicles were reportedly sent to reinforce security and prevent further instability.

Soon after the attacks, a video surfaced featuring a former Assad-era commander. In the footage, the commander announced the formation of an armed resistance group known as the “Coastal Shield Regiment,” aimed at opposing the new administration. This development has raised concerns that loyalist factions may continue to pose a significant challenge to the government’s efforts to stabilize the country.

Confrontations with Pro-Assad Militias

Security forces in Latakia engaged in direct combat with armed factions loyal to Suhail alHassan, a former special forces commander under Assad. The fighting was intense, but authorities later claimed to have regained control of the situation.

According to security officials, several attackers were killed in the clashes, and many others were taken into custody. “The situation is now under control,” a government spokesperson stated, emphasizing that law enforcement would continue operations against any groups threatening national security.

To prevent further violence, authorities imposed a curfew in both Latakia and the neighboring coastal city of Tartous. The decision to enforce restrictions highlights the severity of the security crisis and the government’s determination to restore order.

Syria’s Mediterranean coastal regions have emerged as a key battleground for the country’s stability. The interim government, led by President Ahmed alSharaa, faces the difficult task of consolidating control while dealing with armed opposition from Assad loyalists.

While the fall of the Assad regime was a turning point in Syria’s history, the presence of well-organized resistance factions indicates that challenges to the new leadership are far from over. The clashes in Latakia underscore the deep divisions within the country and the persistent threat posed by remnants of the old regime.

As Syria moves forward, the government will likely need to take further measures to suppress insurgent activity and prevent similar incidents in the future. However, with loyalist forces still capable of organizing deadly ambushes, the road to long-term stability remains uncertain.