Syrian Government Forces Deploy in Latakia and Tartous Following Deadly Clashes

Deployment of Troops in Coastal Cities

Syrian government forces have been deployed in the coastal cities of Latakia and Tartous after demonstrations led to deadly clashes, resulting in at least three deaths and over 60 injuries. This marks the latest turmoil testing the government of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who is striving to stabilize the country after 14 years of devastating civil war.

Defense Ministry's Response

The Syrian Defense Ministry announced on Sunday that army units, equipped with tanks and armored vehicles, have entered the city centers in the western part of the country to respond to attacks by "illegal" groups against civilians and security forces, with a mission to restore stability.

Investigations into the Attacks

According to state news agency SANA, the attacks were carried out by "detractors of the defunct regime" of former President Bashar al-Assad during the protests in Latakia. SANA reported that 60 people were injured due to “cuts, stone-throwing, and gunfire targeting both security personnel and civilians.”

Alawite Protests

Violence erupted as thousands of Alawite Syrians took to the streets to protest against violence and discrimination, sparked by a call from Ghazal Ghazal, an Alawite spiritual leader living abroad. Protesters demanded that the government implement federalism and release Alawite prisoners.

Calls for Federalism

An anti-regime protester, Ali Hassan, emphasized that the demonstration aimed to end violence against the Alawite community, while a counter-protester, Mohammad Bakkour, expressed support for the government. “We want federalism, not civil war. We want to determine our fate,” said Ghazal in his video message.