Clashes erupted in the Latakia area of western Syria as anti-regime protesters confronted supporters of the government, resulting in reported injuries among both demonstrators and security forces. Video footage from the scene shows chaotic crowds scattering amid apparent violence, underscoring the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the coastal region.

Latakia, long considered the heartland of Syria’s Alawite community, has become a focal point of unrest following a deadly mosque bombing on December 26, 2025, that killed eight Alawites. The attack has intensified fears within the minority community of renewed sectarian reprisals in the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad’s removal from power.

Protesters in recent days have called for federalism and political safeguards, expressing concern over marginalization under the country’s new leadership. These demonstrations have increasingly collided with pro-government groups, escalating from tense standoffs into physical confrontations.

Security forces were deployed to contain the unrest, though reports indicate that members of both sides sustained injuries as violence broke out. The attached footage captures moments of confusion and panic as people flee amid shouting and sudden dispersals.

Analysts warn that Latakia’s instability carries broader implications for Syria’s fragile transition. The Alawite community, which held significant influence during decades of Assad rule, now faces uncertainty as power dynamics shift under the emerging HTS-led authority. Without effective de-escalation, observers caution that localized clashes could expand into wider sectarian conflict along the Syrian coast.