ALWAGHT- Demonstrations sweep Syria’s coastal and inland regions as protesters call for the release of detainees and political reforms, amid clashes with security forces and pro-government groups.
Protests erupted across Syria’s coastal and interior cities, including Latakia, Tartus, Baniyas, Jableh, and Homs, as citizens demanded the release of detainees, political reforms, and protections for civil rights. Demonstrators staged marches and sit-ins, raising banners calling for accountability amid the country’s transitional governance period.
Security forces and pro-transitional authority groups reportedly used gunfire, bladed weapons, and physical assaults to disperse protesters. Several demonstrators were killed or injured, including a critical injury and a fatality at the al-Emara Roundabout in Jableh, while activists and photojournalists faced restrictions on documenting events.
In Latakia, Homs, and Baniyas, authorities deployed General Security and auxiliary forces to block access to protest sites, assault protesters, and enforce checkpoints. Local sources reported dozens of injuries, arrests, and clashes at major demonstration points such as al-Azhari and Agriculture Roundabouts.
The protests followed calls by Sheikh Ghazal Ghazal of the Supreme Islamic Council of the Alawite community, condemning a mosque bombing in Homs and urging peaceful mobilization. Observers note the demonstrations reflect growing public frustration with transitional governance, security abuses, and economic hardships, highlighting ongoing human rights concerns in Syria.
