48 Dead in Syria as Assad Loyalists Clash with Security Forces

A violent clash in Syria's coastal town of Jableh resulted in the deaths of at least 48 people, including 16 members of the security forces, during an ambush by gunmen loyal to ousted leader Bashar al-Assad. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights described the incident as the most severe attack on the new authorities since Assad's removal in December. The fighting, which involved multiple groups targeting security positions, also led to the deaths of 28 pro-Assad fighters and four civilians. Security forces captured General Ibrahim Huweija, a former head of air force intelligence, during the operation, who is implicated in numerous assassinations. The violence reflects ongoing tensions between Assad loyalists and the new government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, particularly in regions historically supportive of Assad's regime. This incident marks a significant escalation in the conflict, highlighting the challenges faced by the current authorities in asserting control over remnants of the former regime.