Death toll rises to 4 in attacks by former Assad loyalists in Syria's Latakia

Syrian state media reported Monday that the death toll from attacks by remnants of the ousted Bashar al‑Assad regime during protests in the northwestern coastal city of Latakia has risen to four, with 108 people wounded. According to the Latakia Health Directorate, cited by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), the casualties occurred on Sunday when gunmen targeted security personnel guarding demonstrations in coastal and central cities.

Protests and Calls for Federalism

The protests, called by Ghazal Ghazal—head of the Alawite Supreme Council in Syria and abroad—took place in Latakia, Tartus, Hama, and Homs. Demonstrators chanted slogans demanding “federalism” and expressing opposition to the Damascus government. Ghazal, known for his ties to the former Baathist regime, issued the protest call after a deadly mosque attack in a predominantly Alawite neighborhood of Homs on Friday that killed eight people.

Security Challenges and Political Transition

Despite heightened security, some protesters in Latakia and Jableh attacked security forces and their vehicles. The new Syrian transitional administration, led by President Ahmad al‑Sharaa, is working to tighten security nationwide and pursue remnants of the former regime accused of inciting unrest. Assad, who ruled Syria for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia in late 2024, ending the Baath Party regime that had held power since 1963.