Deadly clashes erupt in Tartous and Latakia as hundreds take to the streets

Violent clashes have erupted in the Syrian coastal cities of Latakia and Tartous, resulting in at least three deaths and more than 60 injuries. The violence began after armed groups associated with remnants of the former Assad regime attacked security forces and civilians during widespread protests. The demonstrations were initially mobilized by an Alawite leader demanding a federal government system and denouncing sectarian violations. In response, the Syrian Defence Ministry has deployed the army to help restore stability, and the Interior Ministry has announced the arrest of armed group members.