Syria’s new President, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, has called on Alawite rebels loyal to former President Bashar al-Assad to surrender, warning of severe consequences if they refuse.
On Friday, March 7, the Syrian War Monitor, a human rights organization, reported that at least 162 pro-Assad rebels were killed or “executed.” The executions followed a sudden attack by the rebels on the new government’s security forces, resulting in numerous casualties.
In response, the Syrian military launched a major operation against the Alawite rebels, carrying out immediate executions of captured rebels.
President Ahmed Al-Sharaa warned, “You attacked all Syrians and committed unforgivable crimes. The time for a harsh response has come, and you cannot stop it. Lay down your weapons and surrender before it’s too late.”
The conflict began suddenly on Thursday in the coastal region of western Syria, leading to over 250 deaths. The area has previously experienced deadly clashes.