Syria's interim leader, Ahmed Sharaa, has vowed to take decisive action against those responsible for escalating violence in the country, as clashes between loyalists of former President Bashar al-Assad and the new Islamist government continue. The fighting, concentrated in Assad’s coastal strongholds, has resulted in over 1,000 deaths, mostly civilians, according to war monitors.

In a televised speech, Sharaa accused remnants of Assad’s regime and unnamed foreign backers of attempting to destabilize the country. He pledged accountability for any acts of violence, abuse of power, or mistreatment of civilians. His government has formed an independent committee to investigate the clashes, as graphic videos of executions circulate online.

The conflict has drawn international attention, with the United States and Russia requesting a closed-door UN Security Council meeting to address the situation. Meanwhile, Kurdish armed groups have blamed Turkish-backed Islamist factions for some of the most brutal attacks, including reported executions of Alawite civilians. Turkey has not responded to these allegations.

The clashes began on Thursday when pro-Assad insurgents launched attacks in the cities of Latakia, Jablah, and Baniyas, prompting retaliation from security forces. Fighting has since spread to surrounding mountainous areas where thousands of Assad loyalists are believed to be hiding. Reports suggest that hundreds of security personnel have been killed, and mass graves of government forces have been discovered.

The ongoing violence has reignited sectarian tensions, particularly against Alawites, who were closely linked to Assad’s rule. International bodies, including the UN human rights office, have urged the interim Syrian government to ensure justice for victims.

Amidst the unrest, residents in conflict zones have fled their homes, seeking refuge in nearby fields. Eyewitnesses report armed convoys destroying homes and vehicles, while attacks on public utilities have disrupted essential services. Damascus authorities have begun reinforcing security in Latakia province as they attempt to regain control of the situation.

Assad, who was ousted in December and fled to Russia, still has supporters operating in Syria. The country remains a battleground for various factions, with continued tensions between Turkish-backed groups, Kurdish forces, and foreign powers influencing the conflict.