In the wake of increasing sectarian attacks against Syria's Alawite community, many families have found refuge at a remote Russian airbase. With over 1,400 civilians reportedly killed in recent clashes, survivors share harrowing stories of loss and a desperate plea for international assistance.
Shelter Amidst Chaos: Syrian Families Seek Refuge at Russian Base
Shelter Amidst Chaos: Syrian Families Seek Refuge at Russian Base
As sectarian violence escalates in western Syria, families flee their homes and take shelter in a Russian airbase, highlighting the urgent need for protection and support.
As the tide of sectarian violence rises in western Syria, families have found themselves seeking shelter in a remote Russian airbase, fleeing the terrifying aftermath of targeted attacks. Dalaal Mahna, a grieving mother from the Alawite minority sect, recounts the brutal murder of her only son at the hands of insurgents, illustrating the horror faced by many residents in the region. “They took him right from my side… I will never see him again,” she lamented, reflecting the pain felt by thousands as violence continues to sweep through the primarily Alawite areas of Latakia, Tartous, Hama, and Homs.
The situation has rapidly deteriorated since March 6, when government forces initiated operations against militants following a deadly ambush that left 13 security personnel dead. Insurgent groups, driven by revenge motives, have been accused of executing killings against members of the Alawite sect, fueling fears that entire families may be targeted. International observers, including the United Nations, have highlighted the grim reality of “summary executions,” with reported civilian deaths reaching staggering levels.
In the aftermath of intense conflict, many Alawite families have fled to the safety of the Hmeimim airbase, which is under Russian military control. Here, eyewitness accounts bear witness to the chaos that once engulfed their villages, ensuring that the haunting presence of loss lingers. Dalaal and her fellow refugees face unspeakable conditions while holding onto each other for support. “We need protection,” she implored, summarizing the urgent call for international intervention that resonates among dozens of families living in the airbase.
Despite military assurances that control has been regained in some areas, the scars of violence remain deeply etched into community spirits. As residents cautiously return to their homes, many families grapple with the haunting reality that their once safe neighborhoods are now scarred by conflict. The urgency for comprehensive protection and support for these vulnerable families echoes loudly, as they attempt to navigate their shattered lives amidst one of the most complex humanitarian crises in the region.
The situation has rapidly deteriorated since March 6, when government forces initiated operations against militants following a deadly ambush that left 13 security personnel dead. Insurgent groups, driven by revenge motives, have been accused of executing killings against members of the Alawite sect, fueling fears that entire families may be targeted. International observers, including the United Nations, have highlighted the grim reality of “summary executions,” with reported civilian deaths reaching staggering levels.
In the aftermath of intense conflict, many Alawite families have fled to the safety of the Hmeimim airbase, which is under Russian military control. Here, eyewitness accounts bear witness to the chaos that once engulfed their villages, ensuring that the haunting presence of loss lingers. Dalaal and her fellow refugees face unspeakable conditions while holding onto each other for support. “We need protection,” she implored, summarizing the urgent call for international intervention that resonates among dozens of families living in the airbase.
Despite military assurances that control has been regained in some areas, the scars of violence remain deeply etched into community spirits. As residents cautiously return to their homes, many families grapple with the haunting reality that their once safe neighborhoods are now scarred by conflict. The urgency for comprehensive protection and support for these vulnerable families echoes loudly, as they attempt to navigate their shattered lives amidst one of the most complex humanitarian crises in the region.
