In the aftermath of intensified sectarian violence in Syria, thousands of Alawite families have sought refuge at a Russian airbase, escaping targeted attacks from various factions. Reports indicate that over 1,400 civilians have been killed, with many survivors calling for international protection.
Families Take Refuge at Russian Airbase Amid Rising Sectarian Violence in Syria
Families Take Refuge at Russian Airbase Amid Rising Sectarian Violence in Syria
Syrian families, particularly from the Alawite sect, are fleeing to a Russian airbase for safety as sectarian violence escalates after recent attacks.
Article text:
As sectarian violence in Syria intensifies, families from the Alawite minority are finding shelter at a Russian airbase in western Syria. Dalaal Mahna, a grieving mother, recounted the tragic loss of her only son, who was killed by gunmen during this surge in violence. “They took him right from my side and told me: 'We're going to kill him and break your heart with it,'” Dalaal said, her voice choked with sorrow. Her son, Amjad Qatrawi, was only 25 years old and faced numerous health challenges.
Since March 6, war monitoring groups have documented over 1,400 civilian deaths, predominantly among the Alawite community, in the provinces of Latakia and Tartous. This wave of violence has been fueled by retaliatory attacks following an ambush that claimed the lives of 13 security personnel in the coastal town of Jableh.
Reports indicate that fighters loyal to the Sunni Islamist-led government that replaced the regime of Bashar al-Assad are responsible for revenge killings targeting Alawite neighborhoods, leading to entire families being wiped out. According to the United Nations, at least 111 civilian killings have been verified, with officials suggesting the actual count may be significantly higher. Many of these incidents reportedly involved summary executions.
Our team documented a scene on a highway where a vehicle bore the scars of gunfire. The occupants’ fates remain uncertain, yet the scene underscores the grim reality of the violence plaguing the region. Following the ambush, security forces have attempted to stabilize the area, yet much chaos remains, with many perpetrators believed to be hiding in nearby mountains.
In interviews, soldiers like Mahmoud al-Haik, stationed in Baniyas, voiced the difficulties of the situation, noting the confusion and fear among local villagers, many of whom have fled deep into the mountains to avoid sectarian clashes. “Everyone involved in what happened - they belonged to these communities,” he explained, highlighting the community ties that have been disrupted by the violence.
With the Russian military securing the Hmeimim airbase, thousands of Alawite families are now taking refuge within its walls. Dalaal shares her story and those of other families who have lost loved ones, stating a collective plea for international protection. "We need international protection from what we're going through. We left our homes, we left everything, our livelihoods, and we came here," said one woman.
While the newly established Syrian government promises accountability for the violent attacks, skepticism permeates the community, which is still wounded and fearful. “We won't accept that any blood be shed unjustly,” asserted Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, yet doubts linger about the government's ability to deliver justice or heal the deep scars inflicted by years of conflict.
The crisis, already deep-rooted in the Syrian civil war, now poses a significant challenge to regional stability, prompting urgent calls for intervention and assistance for those affected by the escalating sectarian violence. The situation remains precarious, as families continue to endure hardships in search of safety and security.
As sectarian violence in Syria intensifies, families from the Alawite minority are finding shelter at a Russian airbase in western Syria. Dalaal Mahna, a grieving mother, recounted the tragic loss of her only son, who was killed by gunmen during this surge in violence. “They took him right from my side and told me: 'We're going to kill him and break your heart with it,'” Dalaal said, her voice choked with sorrow. Her son, Amjad Qatrawi, was only 25 years old and faced numerous health challenges.
Since March 6, war monitoring groups have documented over 1,400 civilian deaths, predominantly among the Alawite community, in the provinces of Latakia and Tartous. This wave of violence has been fueled by retaliatory attacks following an ambush that claimed the lives of 13 security personnel in the coastal town of Jableh.
Reports indicate that fighters loyal to the Sunni Islamist-led government that replaced the regime of Bashar al-Assad are responsible for revenge killings targeting Alawite neighborhoods, leading to entire families being wiped out. According to the United Nations, at least 111 civilian killings have been verified, with officials suggesting the actual count may be significantly higher. Many of these incidents reportedly involved summary executions.
Our team documented a scene on a highway where a vehicle bore the scars of gunfire. The occupants’ fates remain uncertain, yet the scene underscores the grim reality of the violence plaguing the region. Following the ambush, security forces have attempted to stabilize the area, yet much chaos remains, with many perpetrators believed to be hiding in nearby mountains.
In interviews, soldiers like Mahmoud al-Haik, stationed in Baniyas, voiced the difficulties of the situation, noting the confusion and fear among local villagers, many of whom have fled deep into the mountains to avoid sectarian clashes. “Everyone involved in what happened - they belonged to these communities,” he explained, highlighting the community ties that have been disrupted by the violence.
With the Russian military securing the Hmeimim airbase, thousands of Alawite families are now taking refuge within its walls. Dalaal shares her story and those of other families who have lost loved ones, stating a collective plea for international protection. "We need international protection from what we're going through. We left our homes, we left everything, our livelihoods, and we came here," said one woman.
While the newly established Syrian government promises accountability for the violent attacks, skepticism permeates the community, which is still wounded and fearful. “We won't accept that any blood be shed unjustly,” asserted Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, yet doubts linger about the government's ability to deliver justice or heal the deep scars inflicted by years of conflict.
The crisis, already deep-rooted in the Syrian civil war, now poses a significant challenge to regional stability, prompting urgent calls for intervention and assistance for those affected by the escalating sectarian violence. The situation remains precarious, as families continue to endure hardships in search of safety and security.
