Syrian presidency forms 'independent committee' to investigate coastal violence

The Syrian presidency announced on Sunday the formation of a seven-member “independent committee” to investigate recent violence along the country’s Mediterranean coast.

The committee has been tasked with investigating violations against civilians and identifying those responsible for the violence, according to presidency’s statement.

Additionaly, the committee has powers to question everyone and is responsible to draft a report within 30 days.

The statement further emphasized that those found to be responsible would be referred to court.

Photo shows Syria's interim presidency's statemen regarding the "independent committee" — The photo displays a statement from Syria’s interim presidency addressing the formation of an “independent committee.” (Photo via X/@HassounMazen)

Meanwhile, the committee reportedly comprises seven members: Judges Jumaa Al-Dubais Al-Anzi, Khaled Adwan Al-Helou, Ali Al-Naasan, Alaa El-Din Youssef, Hanadi Abu Arab, Brigadier General Awad Ahmed Al-Ali, and Lawyer Yasser Al-Farhan.

The announcement comes amid escalating violence in Syria’s coastal regions, where clashes between security forces and pro-Assad insurgents have resulted in over 1,000 deaths.

Photo shows members of security forces loyal to the interim Syrian government standing along a rocky beaech by Mediterranean sea coast. — This aerial view shows members of security forces loyal to the interim Syrian government standing along a rocky beaech by Mediterranean sea coast in Syria’s western city of Latakia on March 9, 2025. (AFP Photo)

Growing insurgency and remnants of ousted Assad regime

After months of relative calm following the fall of Assad’s regime, violence surged as the new government launched a crackdown on an insurgency growing within the Alawite sect in Latakia and Tartous.

The violence erupted after coordinated attacks by pro-Assad forces on security personnel, leading to intense fighting in cities such as Latakia, Jabla, and Baniyas.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that among the casualties were 745 Alawite civilians, 125 security personnel, and 148 fighters loyal to the former Bashar al-Assad regime. Meanwhile, Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has called for national unity and peace, emphasizing the need for cohesion during this volatile period.