Violent clashes in Syria result in 16 security deaths

Gunmen loyal to Bashar al-Assad killed 16 security personnel in Latakia on Thursday, marking the deadliest violence since his ouster. The attacks occurred in Jableh and surrounding areas, with most victims linked to the former rebel stronghold of Idlib. Syrian forces engaged in clashes with these gunmen, reportedly affiliated with Suhail al-Hassan, a former special forces commander. Helicopter strikes and artillery fire targeted armed groups in the region, leading to additional casualties among security forces. Tensions escalated after residents in Beit Ana resisted an arrest attempt, prompting a security operation that resulted in civilian deaths. Alawite leaders called for peaceful protests against the air strikes, while armed groups in Idlib expressed support for the security forces.