Sat Mar 08 01:03:17 UTC 2025: ## Syria Sees Worst Violence Since Assad’s Ouster as Government Forces Clash with Loyalists

**BEIRUT, Syria –** Dozens of civilians have been killed in escalating clashes between Syrian government forces and loyalists of ousted President Bashar al-Assad, marking the worst violence since Assad’s government was overthrown in December 2024. The fighting, which began Thursday, has seen government-backed fighters storm several villages near the coast, resulting in the deaths of at least 140 civilians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). The SOHR also reported at least 50 government forces and 45 Assad loyalists killed.

The violence erupted after an ambush on government forces attempting to detain a wanted individual near Jableh. In retaliation, pro-government gunmen launched attacks on the villages of Sheer, Mukhtariyeh, and Haffah, with reports indicating the deliberate targeting and killing of men. The town of Baniyas also saw significant casualties, including women and children.

While Syrian authorities have not released an official death toll, they acknowledged the actions and pledged to address any abuses. Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa called for an end to the violence, urging both sides to de-escalate and avoid targeting civilians. He warned that such actions play into the hands of Assad loyalists.

Damascus has deployed reinforcements to the coastal region, a stronghold of Assad’s Alawite sect, and curfews remain in place. Concerns are rising about the potential for further sectarian violence and the impact on the fragile peace. Gregory Waters, an associate fellow with the Middle East Institute, expressed worry about cyclical violence between coastal communities. He also noted that any abuses by security forces could drive more young Alawites to take up arms against the new government.

The conflict has also raised significant security concerns for the new government. Qutaiba Idlbi, a research fellow at the Atlantic Council, highlighted the government’s struggle to manage multiple security threats across the country. Russia, a key player in the Syrian conflict, has called for de-escalation and reaffirmed its support for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Turkey, which previously backed the insurgents, expressed concern that the fighting could undermine efforts to establish stability. Despite these calls for calm, the situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation and a deepening humanitarian crisis.

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