Syria’s New Security Forces Conduct Operations in Homs Against Assad Loyalists
On January 2, 2025, in Homs, Syria, new security forces conducted a significant operation to detain over 100 alleged followers of ousted President Bashar Assad. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) led the sweeps, which included identity checks, confiscation of weapons, and the destruction of documents linked to the former regime. The operation reflects ongoing efforts to stabilize areas following Assad’s regime collapse.
In a significant operation on January 2, 2025, Syria’s newly formed security forces, primarily composed of fighters from the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), conducted extensive searches in Homs targeting former soldiers and militia members loyal to ousted President Bashar Assad. The operation, which was executed in tandem with the interim Interior Ministry, aimed to detain over 100 individuals who had resisted surrendering their weapons. The HTS members utilized armored tanks, searched residential areas, and detained suspected loyalists, garnering cheers from some local residents despite the tension. They also confiscated firearms and destroyed official documents associated with Assad’s Baath Party. Meanwhile, the local authorities are providing centers for voluntary disarmament for former regime members following Assad’s departure to Russia in early December 2024.
The current situation in Syria stems from years of civil conflict which culminated in the overthrow of President Bashar Assad’s government by various militant groups, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Following the regime’s collapse, a power vacuum emerged, and new authorities have formed with the aim of establishing order and consolidating control over areas formerly dominated by the Assad regime. The security operations in Homs are integral to the ongoing efforts to secure compliance among remaining loyalists to Assad and to stabilize the newly established governance.
The recent operations in Homs conducted by the Syrian security forces signify the ongoing ramifications of the overthrow of Bashar Assad’s regime. With over 100 individuals detained and significant pressure placed on former loyalists to surrender, it is evident that the new authorities, primarily represented by HTS, are exercising their influence in the region. The process of amending past loyalties and establishing a functional governance structure continues to unfold amidst a backdrop of both local support and potential resistance.
Original Source: apnews.com
