In a shocking attack, 14 members of the Syrian security forces were killed and 10 others injured in an ambush orchestrated by remnants of the former regime in the countryside of Tartus, as announced by Interior Minister Mohammad Abdul Rahman on December 25, 2024.

The minister stated in a press release that the security personnel were performing their duties to maintain order and safeguard local residents when they came under attack. He emphasized the sacrifices made by his team, declaring, "Today, the ministry has set an example of dedication and valor to protect Syria's security and stability."

Abdul Rahman vowed that such sacrifices would continue until stability is achieved, promising to take a hardline stance against anyone threatening the safety of the Syrian people.

Earlier that day, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that nine individuals were killed during clashes in Tartus when security forces attempted to arrest a military officer linked to the ousted president Bashar al-Assad's regime and the infamous Saydnaya prison. By the evening, the death toll had risen to 14.

This violence follows the recent overthrow of Assad's regime by opposition fighters led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, marking a significant shift in a conflict that has claimed over 500,000 lives since it began more than 13 years ago.

Amidst this turmoil, concerns about the future loom large for many Syrians. The new administration has pledged to respect all ethnic and religious groups, but tensions remain high. Reports earlier indicated that a nighttime curfew was imposed in Homs following unrest linked to demonstrations led by Alawite and Shiite communities.

Limited protests have also erupted in other coastal areas, including Tartus, where many Alawites reside. These demonstrations were sparked by pressure and violence against the Alawite community, traditionally seen as loyal to Assad.

Social media footage has surfaced showing a fire within an Alawite shrine in Aleppo, with armed individuals reportedly roaming the site, further escalating fears among the population.