Türkiye reacts strongly to attacks in Syria’s Latakia, reiterates full support
A photo shows the flag of Türkiye and flag of the Syrian Arab Republic prior to a press conference by the Turkish president and Syrian interim president, following their meeting at the Presidential Palace in Ankara, on Febuary 4, 2025 (AFP Photo)
Türkiye reacted to attacks on Syrian government forces in Latakia by Assad loyalists, a development threatening the hard-achieved stability in Syria.
”The tension in and around Latakia, as well as the targeting of security forces could undermine efforts to lead Syria into the future with unity and solidarity,” the foreign minister said.
The ministry reiterated Türkiye’s steadfast support tothe Syrian people and the Syrian government. The statement read, “Such provocations must not be allowed to threaten the peace in Syria and the region. We stand against any action that targets the right of Syrians to live in peace and prosperity. Türkiye remains steadfast in its support for the Syrian people and government.”
What happened in Latakia?
Search-and-rescue operations targeting overthrown regime forces are intensifying in Syria‘s Latakia province following an attack on security forces on Thursday evening.
The Syrian army has deployed heavy reinforcements, including tanks, armored vehicles, and rocket launchers, to Latakia and Tartus provinces. These operations aim to capture members of the overthrown regime forces.
At least 11 security personnel were killed in an attack by regime forces in Latakia’s Ceble district. Ghayyas Delle, identified as the commander of the overthrown regime forces, announced that they formed a military council to overthrow the current government. Protests erupted in various cities, including Damascus and Aleppo, in response to the attack.
70 dead after refusing to surrender in Latakia and Deraa
At least 70 people have been reported dead in the fighting, which began as Syrian army led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) forces launched operations against groups in Latakia and Deraa that allegedly refused to surrender their weapons.
The army has imposed curfews in Homs and Tartus for security reasons, and calls were made from mosques following the clashes. The group is sending heavily armed reinforcements to the conflict zones, with reports confirming Syrian armed forces have entered Tartus.
Saudi Arabia condemned the attack on HTS in Latakia, reiterating its support for the Syrian government’s efforts to maintain security and stability.
