According to Qutaiba Yaseen, an independent journalist with close ties to the current Syrian authorities, 800 former militiamen were recently arrested in Homs. Of these, 360 were released today following brief interrogations, with more releases expected in the coming days. Yaseen emphasized that the images from the detentions show no signs of physical abuse. The arrests targeted individuals who had refused to voluntarily register and regularize their status.

Given the Assad regime's history, such operations are likely to disproportionately affect the Alawite community, raising legitimate concerns that are often exacerbated by rumors and disinformation campaigns orchestrated by loyalists to the defunct regime, Hezbollah, pro-Iran elements, and Russia-linked outlets. However, failing to address these issues could result in further instability, as individuals may resort to settling scores on their own.

As HTS leader Ahmad Al-Sharaa has suggested, only the most serious offenders should be pursued, and strictly through legal channels. It remains essential to monitor the situation closely to ensure this promise is upheld and to prevent any significant violations of rights or due process.