Syria’s New Security Forces Conduct Operations in Homs Against Assad Loyalists

On January 2, 2025, newly formed Syrian security forces, primarily from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, conducted operations in Homs to detain militia members loyal to ousted President Bashar Assad. Over 100 people were arrested as part of efforts to secure a surrender of arms from former regime supporters.

In Homs, Syria, on January 2, 2025, the newly established security forces, primarily composed of fighters from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), conducted a series of operations aimed at detaining militia members and former soldiers loyal to ousted President Bashar Assad. This initiative followed an ongoing effort to secure arms surrender from those who had refused to comply. During the operation, over 100 individuals were detained, as the HTS fighters searched alleys and residences, sometimes destroying symbols of the Assad regime, including documents related to the Baath party. Local residents expressed mixed emotions, with some cheering for the HTS fighters as they conducted their searches.

The HTS has established centers for former militia and soldier weapons surrender, marking a significant shift in Syria’s security landscape following Assad’s departure to Russia in early December. This operation, coordinated with the interim Interior Ministry, reflects the ongoing power dynamics in Syria’s fragmented governance structure, where former opposition forces are now taking active measures against remnants of the previous regime. Permanent security measures will likely follow to address these formations threatening the stability of the newly formed authorities.

The developments in Homs are crucial as they highlight the transition in Syria post-Assad regime, primarily shaped by the actions of HTS, an Islamist group that played a key role in the prior uprising against Assad. Following Assad’s relocation and the subsequent power vacuum, areas previously controlled by loyalist forces are now experiencing re-establishment of authority through new governance systems, emphasizing the importance of securing compliance from former militia members. Moreover, this situation sheds light on the ongoing challenges the interim government faces in stabilizing the region and managing relations with the populace and former regime affiliates.

The operation in Homs serves as a critical step toward consolidating the newly formed authorities’ power, demonstrating their commitment to disarmament and establishing control over areas previously loyal to Assad. The collaboration between HTS and the interim government signals a concerted effort to transition towards a more stabilized governance structure, though the long-term implications of these actions on local dynamics and overall peace in Syria remain to be seen. As HTS attempts to reassess their relationship with the populace, future operations may shape the region’s political landscape.

Original Source: apnews.com