The pace of events in the Syrian coast has accelerated, with the region witnessing an unprecedented security escalation over the past few days. This has included military operations and large-scale sweeping campaigns, as well as violations that have resulted in the killing of 340 civilians from the Alawite sect by Syrian security forces. In this context, the head of the Transitional Administration, Ahmed Al-Shara, called on Alawite fighters to surrender themselves and their weapons, warning of the consequences of escalation.
Amid these violent and bloody clashes, accusations have been directed at several military figures linked to the former Syrian regime, who are accused of fueling the security situation and leading “remnant” groups. Among the most prominent names circulating on social media are Suheil Al-Hassan, known as “The Tiger,” Miqdad Fteiha, and Ghayath Dalla.
Suheil Al-Hassan, known as “The Tiger,” is one of the most prominent military leaders associated with repression and destruction during the era of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime. Born in the city of Jableh on the Syrian coast in 1970, Al-Hassan is a member of the Alawite sect. He graduated from the Air Force Academy in Homs in 1991, beginning his career in the Syrian Air Force before joining the Air Force Intelligence Directorate, according to local media outlets.
In 2011, Al-Hassan was tasked with training members of the Special Operations Division and led military operations in several Syrian provinces, playing a significant role in suppressing protesters, particularly in Latakia. He is known as the officer who ordered attacks on civilians using explosive barrels. These barrels, filled with nails, metal shrapnel, and explosives, were dropped from helicopters onto residential areas, resulting in the deaths of thousands of civilians and widespread destruction.
Another prominent name is Miqdad Fteiha, an officer in Bashar Al-Assad’s army, who announced in February the formation of a new military group called the “Shield of the Coast Brigade,” claiming control over 90% of the Syrian coast. Fteiha is known for commenting on clashes between opposition forces and the Assad-loyal army through videos posted on social media. He continues to post videos addressing the Alawite community, urging them to keep their weapons and join him in his battle.
On the other hand, the name Ghayath Dalla has resurfaced. He is considered one of the military leaders closely linked to Iran and Hezbollah, according to the website “With Justice.” Dalla led a military division under Maher Al-Assad, collaborating with Iranian elements during battles in Damascus and Al-Zabadani.
Dalla also integrated members of Iranian militias and Hezbollah into his forces, providing them with uniforms similar to those of his troops for camouflage, according to the same source. Local reports indicate that Dalla has recently returned to the military scene, leading armed groups under the name “Military Council for the Liberation of Syria.”
Ibrahim Houjeijah, who headed the Air Force Intelligence Directorate since 1987, has also resurfaced after the Transitional Government authorities announced his arrest during their security campaign in Latakia province, which has seen violent clashes in recent days. Houjeijah was one of the most prominent figures associated with repressive security operations and significant political events. According to local media, he was responsible for carrying out political assassinations during the rule of Hafez Al-Assad, most notably the assassination of Lebanese Druze leader Kamal Jumblatt on March 16, 1977, when Syrian intelligence operations in Beirut were under his supervision at the time.