Israel has recaptured the town of Jamla in the Yarmouk Basin, in the south of Syria, while the Syrian government battled pro-Assadist forces in the region of Latakia. Israel had captured the town of Jamla in late 2024 following the fall of the Assad regime but had subsequently withdrew from it. Syrian residents of Jamla protested against Israel’s illegal incursion.
From last Friday, Syrian government forces battled a pro-Assadist rebellion in the Latakia region which was swiftly quelled. Supporters of the Assad regime are accusing the Syrian government of committing a sectarian purge against minorities, but Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa stated in a televised speech that civilians should not be targeted, but instead protected.
According to the latest reports by the Syrian Observatory for human Rights, up to 240 Alawite civilians were killed. However, other unconfirmed reports suggest a higher death toll due to reprisals by the official Syrian armed forces. The Syrian government also arrested individuals accused of committing war crimes and reprisals against civilians including Hussein Wassouf and his military group.
Following the fall of the Assad regime, former members of its military were granted amnesty, and the Syrian government made clear efforts to prevent vendettas and reprisals. However, Sednaya prison officials, individuals who committed serious war crimes, and extended members of the Assad family were rounded up, with some facing summary executions.
Israel is taking advantage of sectarian tensions and the pro-Assad resistance to annex territory in southern Syria. The Syrian President has consistently reiterated that Syria’s unity will not be compromised and that the country is not seeking war with Israel. Druze community leaders in the south of Syria have also reiterated their stance in remaining part of Syria and its borders.
Feature image shows a protest in Jamla against Israeli occupation in December 2024.
Newsroom
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