Syria’s Interim Leader Vows Accountability for Civilian Bloodshed

SOHR reports that the death toll has now exceeded 1,311, including 830 Alawite civilians.

Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, Mar. 9, 2025. (Photo: Screen shout from SANA's video)
Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, Mar. 9, 2025. (Photo: Screen shout from SANA's video)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, pledged on Sunday that his administration would hold accountable anyone involved in harming civilians, following days of deadly clashes on the Mediterranean coast that left hundreds dead.

Government’s Pledge for Justice

in a video posted by state news agency SANA, Sharaa condemned attempts by remnants of the former regime and foreign-backed actors to destabilize the country, accusing them of inciting sectarian strife to push Syria into chaos.

He assured the public that his government would take decisive action to restore order, prevent revenge attacks, and uphold the rule of law.

“We will not tolerate any attempts to divide Syria or incite sectarian violence,” Sharaa stated. “Anyone involved in targeting civilians, attacking security forces, or spreading disorder will face justice.”

Formation of Investigative Committees

The Syrian leader announced the establishment of a fact-finding committee to investigate the recent violence in the coastal region, particularly in Latakia and Tartus, where clashes between security forces and armed factions escalated into mass killings. The committee, he said, would ensure transparency and hold perpetrators accountable.

Additionally, a national commission dedicated to preserving social stability will be formed under the presidency’s supervision. This body will engage directly with affected communities to assess their needs and implement measures to maintain security and prevent further bloodshed.

Calls for Surrender and National Unity

Sharaa issued a stern warning to former regime loyalists and armed groups, urging them to surrender immediately. “Those responsible for attacks on security personnel, hospitals, and civilians must turn themselves in or face the consequences,” he declared.

At the same time, he reaffirmed his commitment to national unity, emphasizing that Syria belongs to all its people, regardless of ethnicity or sect.

He called on citizens to resist provocations and reject external interference, saying, “Syria remains indivisible, and no force will be allowed to undermine its sovereignty.”

Regional and International Appeal

Addressing the international community, Sharaa urged regional and global powers to support Syria’s stability rather than exploit its crisis. He reiterated that his administration is determined to move forward and build a future free from dictatorship and foreign intervention.

“Syria has endured years of suffering, and we will not allow external actors or domestic factions to drag us into further chaos,” he affirmed. “We ask the world to respect our sovereignty and stand by our people as we forge a new path forward.”

Coastal Clashes Escalate into Humanitarian Crisis

The situation in Syria’s coastal regions is rapidly worsening. Last Thursday, violent clashes broke out between Syria’s new security forces and pro-Assad loyalists in Latakia and Tartus, escalating into what many are calling sectarian massacres.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that the death toll has now exceeded 1,311, including 830 Alawite civilians, many allegedly executed in targeted killings, 125 security personnel from Syria’s interim government, and 148 former regime fighters still loyal to Assad.

The conflict has triggered widespread displacement and a severe humanitarian crisis. Entire towns are grappling with crippling electricity and water shortages, while the closure of markets and bakeries has exacerbated the suffering of civilians trapped in the conflict zone.

 
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