Syria Reinforces Security Amid Rising Violence Against Alawites
Following disturbing reports of mass killings of Alawites in Syria, security forces have bolstered their presence in the affected coastal regions. Approximately 750 civilians are reported dead amidst violent clashes between new authorities and Assad loyalist forces. The situation remains tense as experts and community leaders call for an end to violence.
Syrian security forces have intensified their presence in the Alawite regions along the Mediterranean coast following alarming reports of nearly 750 Alawite civilians being killed. These casualties reportedly occurred during violent confrontations between new governmental authorities and loyalist militia forces associated with former President Bashar al-Assad, who himself is an Alawite.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has documented that the deaths occurred in Latakia and Tartus, emphasizing that many were “executed” by security personnel or pro-government factions amidst significant property looting. This has resulted in a total escalation in civilian casualties, bringing the overall death toll linked to recent violence up to 1,018, which includes members from both the new government’s forces and loyalist fighters.
To restore order, security personnel have been dispatched to key locations such as Latakia and Baniyas, with reports indicating ongoing hostilities. A resident from Baniyas recounted that his family members were killed by armed groups who forcibly entered homes, underscoring the tense atmosphere. He managed to escape, fearing for his life, sadly reflecting on the violence that has befallen his community.
The Defence Ministry has stated that control has been reestablished in affected areas, asserting that no attacks should occur within private residences. Additional violence erupted as remnants of the Assad regime ambushed security forces, further worsening the instability in the region. In response to the ongoing conflict, local officials have decided to close schools in Latakia and Tartus for safety reasons.
The violence erupted following the arrest of a suspect in an Alawite village, although a recent statement from security forces indicated a relative calm may have been restored following their reinforcements. The security director for Latakia asserted a firm stance against any acts of revenge, aiming to stabilize the situation for Syrian citizens.
The areas predominantly comprised of Alawites remain anxious about potential retribution due to the previous oppressive rule of the Assad family. Numerous accounts on social media have shared experiences of violent tragedies affecting Alawite families, with reports of killings of women and children during the escalating confrontations. Various groups and organizations, including religious leaders, have condemned the violent events and called for immediate cessation of hostilities.
Experts suggested that the new government’s lack of a supportive framework to address the grievances of Alawites might lead to further tensions. The prevailing situation reflects an alarming trend of violence, which could destabilize the already fragile regional peace.
The escalation of violence in Syria, especially against the Alawite community, has generated significant concern, with substantial civilian casualties being reported. Security forces are actively working to regain control and prevent further chaos, yet fear and calls for accountability are widespread. Without a supportive political framework, ongoing violence poses a serious threat to social stability among diverse communities.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
