At least three people, including a Syrian security officer, were killed and around 60 others were wounded during violent clashes in the coastal city of Latakia, according to Syrian media reports. The injured include both civilians and members of the security forces, underscoring the severity of the unrest.

The clashes erupted amid protests by members of the Alawite community against Syria’s new HTS-led government. Demonstrators reportedly gathered to voice fears of political marginalization and to demand federalism and security guarantees following a period of growing instability in the country’s coastal regions.

Tensions have been running high since a deadly mosque bombing in Homs on December 26, which killed eight people and acted as a catalyst for widespread demonstrations. In Latakia, confrontations escalated as protesters clashed with security forces and rival groups, leading to gunfire, injuries, and fatalities.

Latakia, long considered an Alawite stronghold, has become a flashpoint in Syria’s post-Assad transition. Since the collapse of the previous government in December 2024, minority communities have expressed deep concern about their future under the Sunni-majority leadership of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led by Abu Mohammad al-Julani.

Authorities have yet to announce additional security measures or a full casualty breakdown. Analysts warn that continued violence along Syria’s coast could further destabilize the country and deepen sectarian divisions during an already fragile political transition.