Syria confirms 1,426 dead in March coastal clashes

English , Middle East - مشرق وسطٰی , Snippets , / Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025

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DAMASCUS — Syria’s National Committee for Investigation and Fact-Finding confirmed 1,426 deaths in the March coastal violence and attributed violations to remnants of the former regime as well as elements of current security forces.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, committee spokesperson Yasser Farhan said the findings were based on four months of fieldwork in 33 towns, mass grave investigations, and 938 witness testimonies. The report identified 265 individuals suspected of committing major violations, including murder, torture, and destruction of property.
Violence began on March 6 when armed groups linked to former President Bashar al-Assad allegedly launched coordinated attacks in Latakia, Tartous, and Hama. The attacks were met with counter-operations by interim government forces and allied militias, reportedly involving more than 200,000 fighters. The clashes resulted in extensive civilian casualties, including 90 women, and numerous alleged extrajudicial killings.
The committee’s report called for full integration of armed forces, judicial reform, and improved oversight to prevent future abuses. While acknowledging the state’s efforts to address violations, the report stressed the urgency of accountability measures.
Jumaa al-Enezi, head of the committee, called for transitional justice, compensation for victims, and institutional reforms. The full release of the report’s sensitive contents is pending presidential approval due to legal and political considerations.