Syria's Islamist Rulers Declare Military Operation Success as Clashes Claim Over 1,000 Lives

A military operation against loyalists of Syria's ousted former President Bashar al-Assad has concluded, with government forces claiming victory, according to the Syrian Ministry of Defense. The operation, which took place in Assad's coastal heartland, was marked by intense clashes between Assad loyalists and Syria's new Islamist rulers, leaving over 1,000 dead, mostly civilians, as reported by a war monitoring group.

The operation's success was celebrated by Hassan Abdul Ghany, the defense ministry spokesperson, who stated that public institutions in the country could now resume operations, providing essential services to citizens. Abdul Ghany emphasized that security forces would continue their efforts to combat remnants of the Assad regime and prevent any future threats from arising.

"We are paving the way for life to return to normal and for the consolidation of security and stability," Abdul Ghany said. However, despite the official declaration of success, tensions remain high as clashes between the Alawite sect loyal to Assad and the country's new Islamist rulers continue to escalate.

However, the fighting has led to significant casualties, with more than 745 civilians, 125 members of the Syrian security forces, and 148 Assad loyalist fighters reported dead. The clashes were especially violent as the new Islamist rulers initiated a crackdown on the Alawite sect, which had been instrumental in Assad's rule. The violence also spiraled into revenge killings, particularly targeting Alawites, who are closely associated with the former regime's atrocities against Syria’s majority Sunni Muslim population.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa condemned the violence and announced plans to hold perpetrators accountable. An independent committee is being formed to investigate the clashes and ensure justice for those affected by the violence.

In a related development, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed on Sunday that Israel would allow Syrian Druze and Circassians to work in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights. This move marks a shift in Israeli policy, especially as tensions persist in Syria and the Middle East. While traditionally seen as hostile, the Syrian Druze have had historical ties with Israel, with some even having positive relations with the Israeli Druze community.

The announcement follows ongoing efforts by Israel’s military to build stronger relations with Syrian Druze communities in the Golan Heights, a region that remains strategically critical. It is also an indication that Israel plans to maintain its presence in southern Syria for the foreseeable future.

The Aftermath of Assad’s Ousting

The fall of Assad's regime in December 2024, brought about by the Sunni Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, marked the end of decades of authoritarian rule. However, the transition has been far from smooth, with growing insurgency and sectarian violence now threatening to destabilize the region further.

Syria’s transition has raised questions in the West about the viability of the new Islamist-led regime and whether it can be integrated into the international community. The violence also poses risks for neighboring countries, including Israel, which has long considered the Syrian regime a threat due to its links with Iran and Hezbollah.