Syria faces twin battles as Assad loyalists and ISIL attack in west, east

Al Jazeera

February 25, 2026

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Syria faces a dual security crisis as Assad loyalists and ISIL resurge, challenging the transitional government’s efforts to stabilize the country. In Latakia, a shadowy armed group linked to remnants of the regime, known as Saraya al-Jawad, launched attacks on security positions, resulting in at least four deaths. This escalation comes amid broader tensions as the new government seeks to dismantle loyalist militias and assert control over areas traditionally under Assad influence. Meanwhile, ISIL’s resurgence in Deir Az Zor province, where it claimed responsibility for deadly ambushes targeting security outposts, further complicates efforts to restore stability. The Saraya al-Jawad group, formed in August 2025, is reportedly linked to Suheil al-Hassan, a former regime brigadier-general known for commanding the notorious Tiger Forces. The group’s attacks, including assassinations and bombings, have been labeled a campaign of destabilization by the Syrian Ministry of Interior. The clashes in Latakia mark a shift from fragmented loyalist resistance to organized rebellion, raising concerns about the government’s ability to neutralize such threats. Analysts suggest the simultaneous flare-ups in the west and east may not be coincidental. Experts warn that external actors, possibly Iran, could be manipulating dormant regime loyalists and ISIL elements to undermine Syria’s new state. This suspicion is fueled by historical ties between regime intelligence networks and these groups, which could allow for coordinated efforts to create chaos. The security vacuum left by the withdrawal of international forces, particularly U.S. troops, has enabled ISIL to exploit instability in eastern regions. Meanwhile, the vast Syrian desert remains a potential haven for militants if swift action is not taken to address the growing threats on multiple fronts. The transitional government faces an urgent challenge to prove its capacity to maintain control and security across the nation. This dual-front conflict highlights the fragile state of Syria’s transition and the risks posed by resurgent extremist groups and regime loyalists. As the country seeks to rebuild after years of civil war, these developments

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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/25/2026