Saudi Arabia, Turkey condemn Assad loyalists for Syria clashes

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The foreign ministries of Saudi Arabia and Turkey on Friday condemned Bashar al-Assad loyalists for attacking security forces in western Syria and expressed support for the new authorities in Damascus.

“The Foreign Ministry expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s condemnation of the crimes committed by outlaw groups in the Syrian Arab Republic and the targeting of security forces,” the ministry said in a statement.

“The Kingdom affirms its support for the Syrian government in its efforts to maintain security and stability and preserve civil peace,” it added.

The Turkish foreign ministry warned against creating tensions that could destabilize the country.

“Intensive efforts are underway to establish security and stability in Syria. At this critical juncture, the tension in and around Latakia, as well as the targeting of security forces could undermine the efforts to lead Syria into the future in unity and solidarity,” spokesperson Oncu Keceli wrote on X.

“Such provocations must not be allowed to become a threat to peace in Syria and the region,” he added.

At least 71 people were killed and dozens of others were wounded in clashes between Syrian forces and elements that support the former regime in Alawite-majority areas on the western coast, a stronghold of the Assad family, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The dead are 35 members of the security forces, 32 gunmen affiliated with the army of the former regime, and four civilians.

Authorities imposed curfews in areas affected by the unrest and Damascus deployed reinforcements to curb the advance of armed groups who reportedly had taken control of some territory.

The new authorities in Damascus, headed by Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of the Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebel group that spearheaded the offensive that drove Assad out of the country in December, have come under repeated criticism by minority groups who say they are being excluded from discussions about the country’s future.

Clashes have also broken out in the south of the country and Israel has threatened a military incursion to defend Druze communities.