Syria's new government retaliates with deadly attacks
Fighters loyal to Syria's new government have killed dozens in reprisal attacks against men linked to former President Bashar Assad. The violence marks the worst clashes since Assad's government was toppled in December by insurgent groups. The assaults occurred in coastal villages, resulting in over 200 deaths, including 69 men in the attacks and at least 50 government forces. The fighting began when government forces attempted to detain a wanted person and were ambushed. Reinforcements have been sent to coastal cities, and a curfew is in effect. The new government has called for armed groups to disarm and avoid civilian harm, while Russia and Turkey have expressed concerns about the escalating violence and its impact on stability in Syria.