Continued chaos in Syria: Iraqi militias and an Alawite insurgency

On January 25, a new Iraqi militia, Kataib Awliya’ al Haq (Guardians of Truth Brigades), announced its formation. So far, the group has issued a single statement displaying its full name, logo, and justification for its establishment.

Little is known about the leadership of this group, as it has only released one statement and did not name any of its leaders or release pictures or videos. However, a close look at Kataib Awliya’ al Haq’s logo shows a distinct similarity with other Iraqi militias, namely, Saraya Awlia’ al-Dam (Companies of the Guardians of Blood).

Saraya Awlia’ al Dam first gained attention on August 24, 2020, when it claimed responsibility for an attack on an Iraqi convoy allegedly transporting US goods and released dramatic footage of the incident.

The extent to which Kataib Awliya’ al Haq is genuinely preparing to enter Syria remains uncertain and cannot be determined by a single statement. However, one thing is clear: the Syrian coast—where clashes have repeatedly occurred between HTS-led forces and Syrian Alawites, as well as remnants of the Assad regime—could see further escalation.

Read more: Long War Journal