Syrian security forces kill high-profile Assad-era commander in raid

Syrian state television reported that security forces killed Firas Hammoud, a senior military officer from the Bashar Al Assad era, during a raid on his hideout in the city of Safita on Sunday. According to the report, Hammoud was neutralised after opening fire on anti-terrorism personnel. Safita, located in the Tartus governorate, is primarily populated by Christians and Alawites. Hammoud was a commander in the 25th Special Mission Forces Division, known as the Tiger Forces, which operated closely with Russian troops. Following the collapse of the Assad regime in December 2024, state media alleged that Hammoud led remnants of the former military and other armed groups in the coastal region, engaging in mutiny and attacks against government facilities and civilians. Syrian authorities have stated they are preparing files on 6,000 members of the former regime for prosecution regarding crimes committed during the 2011-2024 civil war. High-profile trials began last month, with many, including Bashar and Maher Al Assad, receiving death sentences in absentia.