Syria has seen a tragic escalation in violence with reports of 750 Alawite civilians killed by security forces and pro-government fighters since clashes erupted. Security reinforcements aim to restore order in key coastal regions while the community grapples with fears of retaliation amid a backdrop of historical oppression. Education institutions are closed amidst these security concerns, and there are calls for action from various community leaders. The situation underscores a significant humanitarian crisis.
Syrian security forces have intensified their presence in the Alawite region along the Mediterranean coast following alarming reports of mass killings targeting Alawite civilians. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has reported approximately 750 civilians killed in recent days due to alleged executions by government forces and allied fighters in the Latakia and Tartus provinces.
The violence escalated dramatically after clashes erupted on Thursday between new authorities and troops loyal to former President Bashar al-Assad, an Alawite. The death toll from the ongoing violence has reached 1,018, including significant casualties among new security forces and pro-Assad fighters. Reports indicate that security forces are deployed in cities like Latakia, Jableh, and Baniyas to restore order and protect civilians.
Witness accounts describe horrific events, with Baniyas resident Samir Haidar detailing his escape from armed groups that invaded homes, resulting in the deaths of his family members. Despite being an Alawite himself, he had previously opposed the Assad regime and suffered imprisonment for his beliefs. The Syrian defense ministry stated that they have successfully reasserted control over areas affected by the attacks.
Education officials have announced school closures in Latakia and Tartus due to persistent security concerns, compounded by attacks that have compromised local infrastructure, including power outages. Violence erupted following the arrest of a suspect in a predominantly Alawite village, with a relative calm reportedly returning after security reinforcements were deployed.
Authorities have blocked coastal roads to prevent further violence, while security officials vowed to protect all communities and prevent any acts of revenge against civilians. The Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), emerging after the ousting of Assad, has made pledges to protect all religious and ethnic groups in Syria, albeit with its extremist origins cast in shadow.
Amid growing fears of retaliation against the Alawite community for the brutal regime of the Assad family, social media reflects the anguish of many. Accounts have surfaced documenting horrifying acts, including family members being slaughtered. The Observatory has reported a series of massacres with women and children among the victims, as evidence from activists shows disturbing images of violence.
Leaders of Syria’s Christian churches and the Druze spiritual leader have publicly condemned these acts of violence against innocents. Observers, including Aron Lund of the Century International think tank, view the ongoing violence as indicative of the new government’s inability to engage constructively with the Alawite population, relying solely on repressive measures to maintain control.
The recent surge in violence against Alawite civilians in Syria highlights a critical humanitarian crisis, marked by alarming mass killings amid political unrest. The heavy security presence deployed aims to restore order, but fear of reprisal looms large among communities affected by past regime brutality. Regional instability continues to threaten vulnerable populations, prompting calls for urgent intervention and protection of civil rights.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
