Clashes in Latakia leave over 20 security personnel dead

Clashes in Latakia, Syria, resulted in the deaths of over 20 government security personnel, marking a significant escalation for the new leadership since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Gunmen attacked state forces amid calls for an uprising. The Military Council for the Liberation of Syria, led by a former Assad army commander, claimed responsibility for the violence, criticizing the new government for failing to protect citizens. Residents expressed fear of retribution from the new rulers. In response, the defense ministry sent loyal fighters to the coast, and a curfew was imposed in Latakia and Tartus. Ongoing clashes were reported, with security forces conducting operations against Assad loyalists.