Syria Ends Military Operation Against al-Assad Loyalists After Intense Clashes

Syria’s interim government has declared an end to a major military operation against armed factions loyal to ousted president Bashar al-Assad, marking the most violent confrontation since the country’s civil war officially ended in December. However, reports from monitoring groups indicate that sporadic clashes are still ongoing, raising concerns about long-term stability in the war-torn nation.

Fighting Ends, But Tensions Persist

The military campaign was launched following a sudden and deadly attack by armed groups from the Alawite community on a police patrol in Latakia last Thursday. The assault quickly escalated into widespread violence across Syria’s coastal provinces, leading to fierce battles between the new government’s security forces and al-Assad loyalists.

The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that 1,130 people were killed in the clashes, including 830 civilians. These numbers have not been independently verified, but the figures highlight the severe human cost of the conflict.

Government Declares Victory, Issues Stern Warning

Speaking at a press briefing in Damascus, Syrian Defense Ministry spokesperson Colonel Hassan Abdel-Ghani announced the official end of the operation, asserting that the government had successfully dismantled rebel strongholds.

“To the remnants of the defeated regime and its fleeing officers, our message is clear: If you return, we will also return. You will face men who do not know how to retreat and who will show no mercy to those whose hands are stained with innocent blood.” – Colonel Abdel-Ghani

While the government claims to have restored control, it acknowledged that security forces will continue hunting down sleeper cells and armed remnants of the former regime.

Reports of Retaliatory Attacks Spark International Concern

Despite the government’s claims of restoring order, disturbing images have emerged showing retaliatory attacks against Alawite civilians in western Syria. Human rights organizations have accused government forces of excessive use of force, unlawful detentions, and mistreatment of prisoners.

Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa addressed these concerns, calling the reported attacks "isolated incidents" and vowing accountability.

“We will not tolerate violations by our security forces. A special investigative committee has been formed to examine reports of civilian mistreatment, and those responsible will face justice.” – President Al-Sharaa

International Reactions: Europe and US Condemn Killings

The European Commission expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, condemning reports of civilian massacres.

"We are alarmed by the situation in Syria. The killings of innocent civilians are horrendous. We urge the interim authorities to act swiftly and ensure accountability for these atrocities." – EU Commission Spokesperson

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Syrian authorities to “hold the perpetrators of these massacres accountable”, emphasizing Washington’s support for Syria’s ethnic and religious minorities, including Christian, Druze, Alawite, and Kurdish communities.

The Road Ahead: Can Syria Maintain Stability?

The Syrian government’s ability to maintain control in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the country can transition to long-term stability or face another cycle of insurgency and violence.

With tensions still high and the possibility of continued sectarian conflict, the future of Syria remains uncertain.