Syria’s new government is cracking down on remnants of Bashar al-Assad’s rule, with security operations underway in various parts of the country. The official Syrian news agency reported a large-scale sweep operation near Latakia, responding to reports of elements linked to Assad’s militias.
The new administration clarified that they are not targeting the Alawite community but focusing on soldiers and army officials connected to Assad and his brother, Maher al-Assad. Operations are also ongoing in Homs, Aleppo, and Damascus suburbs.
This crackdown follows the killing of 14 police officers in an ambush by forces loyal to al-Assad in Tartous governorate. The Interior Minister vowed to ensure Syria’s security and protect its citizens.
The political transition is in progress, with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto leader, engaging in talks with Arab and Western diplomats. Concerns are raised about the impact of Syria’s future on the region, urging protection for minorities and stability.
Amidst discussions with Bahraini and Libyan officials, cooperation on security, military, energy, trade, and immigration issues is being emphasized. Meanwhile, approximately 70 Syrian officers and soldiers were expelled from Lebanon and returned to Syria for crossing the border illegally.
Syrian military personnel, including high-ranking officials close to the al-Assad family, have sought refuge in Lebanon following al-Assad’s ousting. The returnees are now detained by the new Syrian authorities, marking a continued effort to establish stability in Syria’s transitional phase.
