Why it matters:
The recent escalation of violence highlights increasing divisions within Syria's coastal areas, particularly among Alawite communities discontented with the interim ruling regime under Abu Mohammad al-Jolani. The unrest in the northwestern coastal region, largely populated by Alawites—the sect of former President Bashar Assad—suggests a possible shift in the nation's power dynamics.
The big picture:
The fighting erupted after days of protests against the new ruling regime in key Alawite strongholds like Qardaha, Latakia, and Homs. Syrian opposition groups claim Jolani's forces have violently suppressed demonstrators using live ammunition. The conflict has since spread to rural areas, with clashes reported between security forces and armed opposition in various towns and villages.
What they’re saying:
Syrian state media (SANA): Citing a source in the Ministry of Defense of the Syrian interim ruling regime, it reported intense clashes around the village of Ta’nita in Tartus, where Jolani forces have been deployed.
Al Jazeera sources: Fierce confrontations are ongoing at the entrances to Latakia between Jolani’s security forces and armed opposition factions.
Syrian Interior Ministry (Interim Government): Military reinforcements have been sent to the town of Qadmous to suppress opposition.
Key points:
- Opposition groups say that pro-Assad armed groups have arrived in Ta’nita while the interim ruling regime’s security forces are mobilizing reinforcements in Qadmous.
- Gunfire targeted a police patrol vehicle in Jableh, further fueling unrest in the coastal province.
- Internet and phone services have been disrupted in Daraa and Sweida due to cable cuts between Daraa and Damascus.
- Heavy fighting has been reported in Latakia’s countryside, specifically in the towns of Al-Haffa, Al-Mukhtariya, and Al-Shir, leaving dozens dead.
Go deeper:
The surge in violence in Syria's coastal regions, traditionally a stronghold of Bashar al-Assad’s governmet, signals a critical shift in the conflict. Growing discontent among Alawite communities and escalating clashes highlight the potential for further instability, creating significant obstacles for Jolani’s regime in its efforts to consolidate power.
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Mojtaba Darabi
