National Committee Concludes Coastal Events Investigation, Submits Final Report
July 22, 2025 – Syria
The National Committee for Investigation and Fact-Finding on the Coastal Events in Syria has officially announced the completion of its mandate and the submission of its final report to the relevant authorities. The committee confirmed that the work was completed within the scheduled timeframe, although the public release of findings was delayed due to developments in southern Syria.
Comprehensive Investigation Conducted in Coordination with the United Nations
According to the committee, extensive consultations were held with international entities affiliated with the United Nations. The findings are based on an in-depth review of a broad range of information, documents, testimonies, physical and digital evidence.
The investigation included field monitoring and site visits across three key governorates: Latakia, Tartus, and Hama, where the committee visited 33 locations, including burial sites linked to the incidents under investigation.
Hundreds of Testimonies and Documented Violations
During its operational period, the committee conducted interviews with dozens of local and official figures, gathering 938 testimonies from witnesses representing various families and regions, as well as 23 statements from officials in public institutions.
The report documents over 480 cases of arson targeting homes and commercial properties, along with widespread violations, including the deaths of 238 security and military personnel, some of whom were reportedly in captivity.
Alleged Perpetrators and Impersonation of Government Forces
The report identifies 265 individuals suspected of involvement in acts of violence and unrest. Among them are persons reportedly affiliated with the former Syrian regime, accused of attempting to separate the coastal region from the state. The investigation also confirmed cases where government identities were impersonated for illicit gain, with some individuals forming organized looting groups.
Casualty and Missing Persons Data
The committee verified the deaths of 1,469 individuals, including 90 women, and gathered information on 20 missing persons, among them civilians and members of the security forces.
Despite the scale of violations, the committee stated that the acts were not fully systematic or organized, noting that around 300 suspects were identified, some allegedly linked to military-affiliated groups.
Final Recommendations and Handover to Judicial Authorities
In its closing recommendations, the committee called for:
• Pursuing individuals who remain at large in accordance with the law.
• Implementing urgent measures to prevent incitement and sectarian tensions.
• Continuing the transitional justice process.
The committee confirmed that its mandate has officially concluded, and that the list of suspects has been submitted to the President of the Republic. Decisions regarding the disclosure or confidentiality of names are now under the jurisdiction of the competent judicial authorities.
