BEIRUT, March 10 (Xinhua) -- A total of 1,476 Syrian families have fled to Lebanon's northern Akkar region over the past 10 days, Lebanon's state media reported on Monday.

In an interview with the National News Agency, Akkar Governor Imad Labaki said around 6,000 individuals, including those from 40 Lebanese families, have moved to the Akkar Plain and parts of the Dreib region. Their displacement follows violence in Syria's coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartous, where security forces conducted an operation against suspected remnants of the former regime.

Labaki said that most of the displaced are Alawites, a religious minority that former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad belongs to. They entered through unofficial border crossings and sought refuge in Alawite villages, mosques, and homes.

He added that local municipal leaders have raised urgent concerns, prompting him to contact the United Nations, humanitarian organizations, the Red Cross, and the Disaster Management Unit for assistance.

Labaki assured that the security situation remains stable for now, emphasizing that "there is no imminent threat, as municipal officials confirmed that most refugees fled out of fear for their lives." He also announced plans to meet with local officials from Alawite-majority towns on Tuesday afternoon.

Starting Tuesday, the Akkar governorate will cooperate with international organizations to provide aid. "In the meantime, we will begin distributing mattresses, blankets, and food supplies. We will also start distributing water and hygiene kits to the displaced tomorrow," Labaki said.

Syria's Defense Ministry announced Monday the conclusion of its military operation in the coastal region, stating that security had been restored following recent clashes with remnants of the former regime.

According to the ministry, the military operation was launched in response to coordinated attacks on security forces. The clashes began on Thursday and spilled over into several areas along the coastline, resulting in over 1,000 deaths, including civilians. Enditem

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