Syrian military operation against Assad loyalists is completed

The Syrian defense ministry announced the completion of a military operation against loyalists of ousted President Bashar al-Assad. This follows intense fighting that resulted in over 1,000 deaths, primarily among civilians, marking the heaviest violence since the former rebels took control. Hassan Abdul Ghany, a ministry spokesperson, stated that public institutions can now resume operations. Plans are in place to continue addressing threats from remnants of the former regime. An independent committee will investigate the recent clashes and killings. Despite a brief period of calm after Assad's ousting, violence has surged, particularly against the Alawite community. This community was previously favored under Assad's rule, leading to revenge killings amid the ongoing conflict.