Over 1,000 people, mainly Alawite civilians, have been killed in clashes on the Syrian coast, marking the bloodiest violence since the fall of the Assad regime. The SOHR reports significant losses among both civilians and security forces due to coordinated attacks. The international community has condemned the violence, highlighting the need for accountability for human rights violations.
Recent clashes on the Syrian coast have resulted in over 1,000 deaths, primarily among civilians. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the casualties include 745 Alawite civilians amidst escalating sectarian violence fueled by remnants of the ousted Assad regime. Additional fatalities include 125 from the government’s security forces and 148 pro-Assad fighters since a bold attack began on Thursday in Latakia province, an Alawite stronghold.
The violence marks the most severe unrest since the fall of Assad in December, challenging the stability promised by Syria’s new administration after years of civil war. Amidst this chaos, power and water supplies in vast areas of rural Latakia have been disrupted, complicating communication efforts.
Syrian state news reports indicate that government forces have regained control of much of the region, with authorities implementing road closures to restore order. An emergency committee has been established to oversee violations and bring offenders before military courts.
President Ahmad al Shara has called for the surrender of militias loyal to the expelled Assad regime, criticizing their actions against Syrians. “You attacked all Syrians and made an unforgivable mistake,” he remarked, emphasizing the repercussions of their aggression.
The recent wave of violence provoked international backlash, with the EU condemning assaults on interim forces. France’s foreign ministry called for thorough investigations into the violence, particularly targeting civilians based on their faith, urging accountability for those responsible.
The revenge killings primarily target the Alawite community, escalating fear and insecurity. Alawite residents express concerns about widespread targeting, stating, “They’re going after us just because we’re Alawite.” Reports detail continued operations by Syrian security forces in Latakia, Tartous, and Hama, which include house raids and extrajudicial executions.
Eyewitness accounts describe pervasive violence and the uncertainty regarding the fate of friends and family in besieged towns, as communication lines remain severed due to the ongoing turmoil.
The recent clashes on the Syrian coast signify a dire resurgence of sectarian violence, resulting in significant civilian casualties and a severe humanitarian crisis. The international community has condemned the actions of pro-Assad elements, calling for accountability and thorough investigations. As communications break down and fear grips affected communities, the ongoing instability presents a formidable challenge to Syria’s new leadership.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
