Reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicate that Syrian security forces have executed 162 Alawite civilians in Latakia, as tensions flare following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. Activists describe a climate of fear and horror among the remaining Alawite population, while the international community raises concerns over escalating violence.
Alawite Community Faces Brutal Reprisals Amid Violence in Syria
Alawite Community Faces Brutal Reprisals Amid Violence in Syria
The Syrian coastal province of Latakia witnesses gruesome killings as security forces allegedly execute dozens of Alawites amidst ongoing sectarian conflict.
Syrian security forces are facing serious allegations of executing a large number of individuals from the Alawite community in Latakia, a coastal province central to the regime of ousted President Bashar al-Assad. According to the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a staggering 162 civilians were killed in what the organization describes as "field executions." The news raises alarm not only because of the sheer number but also due to the prominence of Latakia as a stronghold of the Alawite sect, which comprises approximately 10% of Syria's population.
In response to these claims, an official from the Syrian interior ministry acknowledged that "individual violations" had occurred and assured the public that measures would be taken to address these abuses. However, these assurances come after reports of the ongoing crackdown following military operations initiated after Assad’s regime was displaced in December. The interim president of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, emphasized that the government intends to eliminate remnants of the previous administration.
The conditions in Latakia have deteriorated alarmingly, with reports of clashes claiming over 70 lives between the new military authorities and assailants loyal to Assad. Curfews are currently imposed in key cities experiencing violence, and critical infrastructure, including power sources in Latakia province, has been shut down to quell unrest.
Activists report that the Alawite community is engulfed in fear, uncertain of their fate in the absence of government protection. The United Nations special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, has voiced his discontent over the situation, urging all involved parties to avoid further stirring tensions which could lead to greater conflict and instability.
Residents have shared their feelings of vulnerability and fear of becoming scapegoats for the violence, as they face increasing sectarian animosity. Global leaders, including representatives from Turkey, Russia, and Germany, have likewise expressed concerns that the ongoing violence poses a significant threat to regional stability.
The dire situation in Latakia calls for urgent international attention as the cycle of violence continues to escalate.
