BBC News - Syria frontline patrol: the rebel gunmen who now police the streets | BBC News
The video highlights the recent changes in Syria's political landscape, particularly in Latakia, where the Sunni rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has taken control. This area, previously a stronghold of Assad loyalists, is experiencing significant upheaval as HTS enforces new laws and settles scores from years of oppression. The video shows HTS acting as the new police force, arresting individuals accused of being regime informants, and dealing with property disputes involving Alawite residents, who were part of the ruling class under Assad. The Alawites, feeling unsafe, are considering leaving the area. Meanwhile, Russian forces are seen withdrawing from the region, indicating a shift in military presence and influence. The situation remains volatile, with fears of further violence and instability as the new order takes hold.
Key Points:
- Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) now controls Latakia, enforcing new laws and settling old scores.
- Alawite residents, previously part of Assad's ruling class, face reprisals and insecurity.
- HTS acts as the new police force, arresting regime informants and resolving property disputes.
- Russian military presence is decreasing, signaling a shift in regional power dynamics.
- The situation is volatile, with potential for further violence as the new order establishes itself.