Death Toll In Syria’s Coastal Clashes Rises To 1,018 As Violence Escalates

The ongoing clashes in Syria’s coastal region have claimed 1,018 lives, including 745 civilians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which updated its previous reports on Saturday.

The observatory reported that allied paramilitary forces, now under the new administration, have launched retaliatory attacks. These actions follow recent assaults by remnants of the ousted Bashar al-Assad regime.

Earlier this week, these attacks resulted in the deaths of 16 security personnel.

Officials described the ambushes as premeditated, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Among the total casualties, 125 were government security personnel, while 148 belonged to armed groups supporting the former regime.

However, independent verification of these figures remains unavailable.

The war monitor cautioned that the absence of legal accountability could lead to prolonged instability in post-Assad Syria.

Latakia’s General Security chief, Mustafa Kinivati, emphasized the government’s dedication to safeguarding civilians and preserving national unity.

Kinivati noted, “We are fully committed to maintaining civil peace and protecting all citizens – there will be no tolerance for any violations of this principle.”

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) voiced concern over the rising violence, particularly in Latakia and Tartous.

Stephan Sakalian, head of the ICRC mission in Syria, urged all parties to prioritize civilian safety, uphold humanitarian principles, and ensure access to medical facilities.

The organization is collaborating with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent to provide first aid and evacuate the injured.

In a joint statement, UN officials Adam Abdelmoula and Ramesh Rajasingham condemned the worsening situation, highlighting damage to hospitals, power infrastructure, and roads.

They stressed the urgent need for unrestricted humanitarian access, warning that ongoing curfews and movement restrictions are exacerbating the crisis.

Meanwhile, government forces continued security operations in the region, targeting remaining Assad loyalists and urging armed fighters to surrender.

Also Read: Trump Pauses Military Aid To Ukraine; Calls For Commitment To Peace