DAMASCUS, Syria — Just weeks after the fall of the Assad regime, Syria is grappling with a surge of violence and political instability.

Clashes between pro-government forces and the new authorities have erupted, leaving 14 police officers dead in an ambush in the western region of Tartus.

The incident follows a wave of protests sparked by a video depicting the desecration of a religious site. In response, the government imposed curfews in several cities, including Tartus, Jebla, and Latakia, and deployed reinforcements to quell the unrest.

Sectarian Tensions and Regional Conflicts

The violence underscores the deep-seated sectarian divisions that have plagued Syria for decades. The new government, dominated by Islamist groups, is struggling to maintain control and prevent further escalation.

Meanwhile, regional conflicts continue to simmer. Clashes between Turkish-backed forces and Kurdish militias persist in northern Syria, while Israel continues its incursions into Syrian territory, defying international agreements.

A Fragile Transition

The new government, led by Ahmed Al-Sharaa, faces immense pressure to stabilize the country and address the multitude of challenges. Disarming former regime loyalists and integrating various armed factions into a unified national force remain major hurdles.

The situation in Syria is volatile and unpredictable. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining whether the country can transition towards a more stable and peaceful future.