Syrian security forces have launched a large-scale operation in the western province of Tartus against militias supporting ousted President Bashar Assad. The operation is aimed at “restoring security, stability and civil peace“ in the area, the state news agency SANA reported, BTA reported.
Tartus is populated mainly by Alawites, from whose ranks Assad comes. According to SANA, during the operation, “neutralized“ a number of members of armed groups loyal to the deposed regime.
Casualties and clashes
The non-governmental organization Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported the killing of three fighters supporting the old regime during today's operation.
In the same region, in the village of Khirbet al-Maza, demonstrations broke out yesterday in response to an attack on an Alawite shrine, which led to violent clashes. 14 members of the Syrian security forces have been killed in an attempt to arrest a former representative of the Assad regime.
Disturbing tensions
Since December 8, after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad by radical Islamist groups, the new Syrian government has repeatedly assured its commitment to protecting minorities.
Nevertheless, the Alawite community expresses fears of possible violence and persecution. The ongoing arrests in connection with the latest demonstrations, as well as the intensified operations in the region, deepen the anxiety of the population.