The Alawites of Syria: Living in Fear Amid Ongoing Sectarian Violence
The Alawite community, an offshoot of Shia Islam, governed Syria under the Assad family until December 2024. Following President Bashar al-Assad’s flight, this community has faced severe retaliation in the ongoing civil war, resulting in more than 1,000 fatalities. Living in fear, their future remains uncertain as the war continues and sectarian violence escalates.
The Alawite community, an offshoot of Shia Islam, has governed Syria for over 50 years, primarily under the rule of Hafez al-Assad from 1970 until his family’s regime ended in December 2024, when President Bashar al-Assad fled amid advancing rebel forces. This community represents approximately 10-15% of Syria’s predominantly Sunni population and mainly resides in the coastal regions of Latakia and Tartus.
Under the interim Sunni Islamist government, the Alawites face extreme violence and reprisals due to their historical connection with the Assad regime. Reports indicate that revenge killings have escalated dramatically, with more than 1,000 casualties, including numerous Alawites since the onset of intensified conflict in March 2025. Groups like ISIS and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham label Alawites as heretics, further placing the community in jeopardy.
The current environment has prompted many Alawites to live in fear, a stark contrast to their previous status of power. Numerous attacks have targeted Alawite neighborhoods, forcing families to flee. Eyewitness testimonies report horrific scenes, including one 35-year-old woman who recounted hiding from violence and discovering corpses on the roads. Reports confirm systematic killings across various towns and villages.
The Alawite community’s future is precarious as Syria’s civil war drags on. Their survival now hinges on the country’s ability to reconcile sectarian divisions and establish a stable governance framework beyond sectarian politics, fostering an inclusive society for all citizens.
In summary, the Alawite community, which once held significant political power in Syria, now faces severe threats amid ongoing sectarian violence following the regime’s collapse. The rise in attacks from various opposition groups and the associated fear among Alawites signal a troubling future. Their survival will depend on Syria’s capacity to unite despite sectarian conflicts and rebuild a peaceful society.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
