Escalating Violence as Syria's New Government Faces Resistance from Assad Loyalists**

At least 70 people were reported killed in recent violent encounters between Syria's new authorities and loyalists of former dictator Bashar al-Assad, alongside widespread demonstrations calling for governmental withdrawal.**

At least 70 individuals lost their lives and numerous others were injured during intense confrontations between Syria's emerging authorities and the loyalists of former dictator Bashar al-Assad, marking one of the deadliest periods since the regime's overthrow. The clashes took place in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartous, which have long been strongholds for Assad supporters.

The violence erupted after a deadly ambush claimed the lives of 16 security personnel in the Latakia countryside, prompting a robust response from the transitional government. Thousands took to the streets of both cities, demanding the government withdraw its forces from surrounding areas. This represented the first extensive display of popular discontent against the new regime since its establishment in December.

In response to the unrest, the government deployed additional security reinforcements to restore order on Thursday night. By Friday morning, government convoys were seen patrolling the cities, while residents received orders to remain indoors during ongoing “combing operations” targeting remnants of Assad's regime.

Syrian Ministry of Defense spokesperson, Col. Hassan Abdul Ghani, stated, “Thousands have chosen to surrender their weapons and return to their families, while some insist on fleeing justice and continuing to fight. The choice is clear: lay down your weapons or face your inevitable fate.”

This resurgence of hostilities poses a significant challenge for Syria's new leadership, a coalition formed by rebels who successfully dismantled the Assad regime. As the transitional government attempts to consolidate power, the events of recent days underscore ongoing tensions within the nation.