Syria's Sectarian Turmoil: An Islamic-led Interim Government's Struggle for Stability

The Syrian interim government led by Islamist Ahmed al-Sharaa faces its greatest test amidst violence in the coastal regions. The insurgency by Bashar al-Assad loyalists has reportedly resulted in hundreds of civilian deaths. Sharaa promises accountability while facing international pressure over the killings and his own allies' accountability.

Syria's Islamist-led government has reported the conclusion of a military campaign against insurgents loyal to Bashar al-Assad, amid Western demands for accountability following the alleged massacre of civilians in Alawite regions.

The upsurge in violence poses the most significant challenge yet for interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, with hundreds of civilians reportedly killed during the assault as government forces targeted Alawite sect loyalists. Sharaa, a former al Qaeda figure, blamed Assad's remnants for attempting to reignite conflict, pledging to hold those implicated in civilian deaths accountable.

German officials and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the violence. As Syria's defense ministry announced security restoration efforts, Israel voiced concerns over minority protections. Meanwhile, the U.N. Security Council held a closed-door session to address the ongoing unrest.

(With inputs from agencies.)