Syrian security forces are engaged in a second day of clashes with armed Alawite fighters in western Syria, as the Islamist-led government faces its most significant challenge yet from remnants of Bashar al-Assad’s sect.
Reports indicate that more than 120 people have been killed, though media has been unable to independently verify the figures.
The unrest erupted on Thursday when Alawite fighters launched coordinated attacks in the coastal region, a stronghold of their community. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s government has responded by imposing curfews in Tartous and Latakia, with security forces carrying out sweeping operations.
Civilians have been urged to stay indoors amid ongoing clashes.
Eyewitnesses report heavy gunfire in both cities, while government reinforcements struggled to enter Latakia due to roadblocks set up by insurgents. Security forces are now working to reopen key routes, including the road to Jableh, which remains contested.
The Alawite Islamic Council has blamed the government for provoking the violence, calling for international intervention. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its support for Damascus, condemning the insurgents as “outlaw groups” and pledging solidarity with Sharaa’s administration in restoring order.
