The number of civilians killed in clashes in western Syria has risen to 1,500, Sham TV reported. According to the channel, at least 1,500 civilians have been killed in clashes between the forces of the transitional government of Syria and supporters of former President Bashar al-Assad in the provinces of Latakia, Tartus, Hama and Homs. The highest number of deaths was recorded in the province of Latakia in northwestern Syria, where at least 745 civilians fell victim to clashes.

US Vice President J.D. Vance said that his country would not deploy troops to Syria, but would protect minorities through diplomatic and economic means. In an interview with Fox News, Vance said the US administration must remember who it is dealing with in Syria and must ensure the protection of these historical communities. He added that the US invasion of Iraq had led to destruction of one of the greatest historical Christian communities in the world, and that no Christian group should be destroyed again.

The new "authorities" in Syria claim that supporters of the Lebanese Shia movement Hezbollah are responsible for the murder of three "members" of the "security forces" under their control. The Al Watan newspaper made a corresponding statement. Its source in the Syrian army indicated that, according to his information, militants crossed the border into Syria on March 16 and killed three "servicemen", after which they returned to Lebanon. The media claims that the Hezbollah supporters allegedly took the bodies of the dead Syrians with them to Lebanese territory. Following significant tension on the border and the murder of three employees of the "Ministry of Defense" of Syria, Syrian forces are shelling Hezbollah positions on the border with Lebanon with artillery and MLRS.