Latakia Attacks (2025)

The Latakia attacks were violent incidents that occurred in 2025 in Syria’s Latakia and Tartus provinces, following armed groups loyal to the overthrown Bashar al-Assad regime launching assaults against the country’s legitimate government.

December After the overthrow of Assad in 2024, the new administration established in Syria sought to consolidate control over the country, but Assad regime supporters, particularly in coast, launched resistance. The events began when pro-Assad groups ambushed government forces, and these attacks were recorded as one of the largest acts of violence orchestrated by regime loyalists against the new government.

Background and Causes

Bashar al-Assad was overthrown in December 2024 after a 14-year civil war in Syria. Armed opponent groups that controlled large parts of the country removed Assad from power and established an interim government. Meanwhile, in Latakia and Tartus, like coastal regions long regarded as a central power hub under the Assad regime, resistance emerged against the authority of the new administration.

Latakia and Tartus are areas where the Alawite community, to which Assad belongs, is densely concentrated. Following the regime’s collapse, together, former security and intelligence personnel, militia members loyal to the regime, and some armed groups refused to recognize the new government and took up armed resistance.

In particular, Giyas Delle, a former commander of the 4th Tümen loyal to Bashar al-Assad’s brother Mahir, organized pro-overthrown regime elements in Latakia and established an armed resistance network. Delle is known for his involvement in severe human rights violations against civilians during past sieges of Damascus, Madaya, Zabadani and East Ghouta. Listed by USA on the sanction list, Delle relocated to Latakia after the collapse of the Assad regime and formed a “military council” composed of former soldiers and militiamen to launch an armed struggle against the new government.

Beginning and Progress of the Clashes

Ceble Ambush and Initial Clashes (6 March 2025)

The Latakia attacks began on 6 March 2025 when elements of the overthrown Assad regime ambushed Syrian security forces in the Ceble district. At least 11 security personnel were killed and many others wounded in the attack.

In response, the government deployed heavily armed units to Latakia and Tartus to initiate operation. As the clashes intensified, tanks, armored vehicles and multiple rocket launchers were deployed to the region. With the arrival of reinforcements, large-scale operations were launched. Meanwhile, pro-regime elements continued coordinated attacks against government forces, carrying out armed raids on police centers, military checkpoints and government buildings.

Street Clashes in Latakia and Tartus (7–9 March 2025)

Following the attacks, street clashes erupted in Latakia and Tartus city centers. Assad loyalists established checkpoints in certain neighborhoods within city and launched attacks against government forces.

Government units seized locations where Assad loyalists had taken refuge, conducting intense military operations especially in the rural areas of Latakia. Intense street fighting occurred in some urban districts, causing thousands of civilians to harm as a result of the clashes.

International Reactions and Diplomatic Initiatives

Statements by Spain and Germany

Spain and Germany expressed concern over the violent incidents in Latakia and its surroundings, calling on the Syrian government to investigate the events and bring those responsible to justice. Germany emphasized the need for social peace, stating that all parties must engage in responsibility to ensure Syria’s post-Assad transition enters a stable phase.

France and the European Union’s Position

France declared its support for an inclusive political transition process in Syria, condemning violence targeting religious and ethnic groups. The Europe Union also condemned the attacks by pro-Assad elements against government forces and called for the protection of civilians.

Russia and Türkiye’s Stance

Russia announced it was closely monitoring the events in Latakia and working through diplomatic channels to manage developments in the region. Russia, widely recognized as influential in Syria, emphasized Syria’s soil territorial integrity and called on all parties to exercise restraint. Türkiye, meanwhile, affirmed its support for the current transitional government, stating that attacks against security forces pose a threat to the country’s future.

Security Situation in the Region

After the clashes, curfews were imposed in Latakia and Tartus. Government forces called on Assad loyalists to surrender, reporting that thousands had laid down their arms, although some militias continued fighting. The government announced that those involved in the violence would be brought to justice and that justice would be ensured.