Syrian Forces and Assad Loyalists in Deadly Clashes in Latakia

The Syrian powers, loyal to the new government in Damascus, have been involved in heavy battles with the remains of the iconic Assad regime in the coastal zone in the northwestern part of the country.

At least 13 soldiers were killed in clashes in Latakia province, close to controlled by the Russian air base, according to state television.

The domestic was announced by Friday morning.

They are one of the most violent attacks on forces related to the Islamist government of Syria after the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December.

The clashes continue in the coastal areas that form the heart of the Alawite community and are a fortress of the Assad family.

Alavite activists said their community was subjected to violence and attacks after the fall of Assad, especially in rural homors and Latakia.

SANA state news agency has announced that “huge military reinforcements” are heading to the city of Jabh.

Late on Thursday, Syria -based news agency Step reported that government forces killed “about 70” former regime fighters, while over 25 others were captured in Jabeh and bypassing.

The AFP News Agency said 28 arms loyal to Assad were killed, citing monitors, adding that government forces use helicopters to attack targets.

The BBC failed to check the numbers.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Defense in Syria, Colonel Hassan Abdul Ghani, issued a warning to the Assad loyalists through the state media.

“Thousands have chosen to hand over their weapons and return to their families while some insist on escaping and die in defense of murderers and criminals. The choice is clear: put your weapons or face your inevitable fate,” he said.

The region has become a major security challenge for temporary President Ahmed Al Sharaa.

He is also facing resistance to the south, where in recent days there have been clashes with the forces of Druz.

Earlier this week, Syrian Foreign Minister told the Global Chemical Weapons Guardian that the new government is committed to the destruction of all other stocks that produced a sub-Assad.

The Assad government has ever denied to use chemical weapons during the 14-year Civil War, but activists have accused him of doing dozens of chemical attacks.