Syria’s defense ministry has announced the completion of a military operation in the western coastal region, following days of violence that resulted in hundreds of deaths. Security forces have eliminated loyalists of former President Bashar al-Assad in various towns in Latakia and Tartous provinces, with the aim of restoring normalcy. The ministry spokesperson indicated that over 1,500 people, including 1,068 civilians, have been killed since Thursday.
The interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has pledged to establish an independent committee to investigate the killings and ensure accountability for the perpetrators. The recent violence in Syria marks the worst since Sharaa led the rebel offensive that ousted Assad in December.
The defense ministry spokesperson confirmed the successful conclusion of the security operation in Latakia and Tartous, stating that the area is now secure and public institutions can resume normal operations. Security forces are committed to cooperating with the investigating committee to uncover the truth behind the incidents and deliver justice to those affected.
Sharaa has acknowledged the violations that occurred during the violence outbreak and vowed to punish all responsible parties, regardless of their affiliations. The operation in Latakia province was a response to a rising insurgency by Assad loyalists in the Alawite sect heartland, leading to clashes and revenge killings.
Reports of atrocities, including mass killings and lootings, have emerged from the affected regions. Residents have recounted harrowing experiences of violence and loss, with many still living in fear. The death toll continues to rise, with conflicting reports on the exact numbers.
The situation in Syria remains volatile, with ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the aftermath of the recent violence. Die in der Türkei ansässige Syria TV zitierte Einwohner, die sagten, dass Assad-Anhänger die bei den jüngsten Kämpfen getöteten Polizisten begraben hatten.
Der UN-Hochkommissar für Menschenrechte, Volker Türk, sagte, sein Büro habe „extrem beunruhigende Berichte über ganze Familien, einschließlich Frauen, Kindern und hors de combat Kämpfern, die getötet wurden“, erhalten.
„Es gibt Berichte über summarische Hinrichtungen auf konfessioneller Basis durch unbekannte Täter, durch Mitglieder der Sicherheitskräfte der Übergangsregierung sowie durch Elemente, die mit der ehemaligen Regierung verbunden sind“, fügte er hinzu.
Er forderte schnelles Handeln der syrischen Übergangsbehörden, um Zivilisten zu schützen und die Verantwortlichen für die Morde und andere Verstöße zur Rechenschaft zu ziehen.