Syria operation concludes after significant civilian casualties

Syria's defense ministry announced the end of a military operation in the coastal regions of Latakia and Tartous after intense violence. The operation targeted loyalists of former president Bashar al-Assad, resulting in over 1,400 deaths, including 973 civilians. The violence erupted following an ambush on security forces, leading to revenge attacks against the Alawite sect. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa stated an independent committee will investigate the killings and hold perpetrators accountable. The defense ministry reported that security forces have neutralized threats in several towns and are working to restore normalcy. Public institutions are set to resume operations as security efforts continue in the region.