Reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicate that dozens of Alawite civilians have been executed in Latakia, provoking strong reactions from the international community. The interim government pledges to halt violations amid fears of increased sectarian tensions.
Alawite Executions Allegedly Carried Out by Syrian Security Forces
Alawite Executions Allegedly Carried Out by Syrian Security Forces
Syrian security forces are accused of executing Alawite civilians in Latakia, raising fears of escalating sectarian violence in the region.
Syrian security forces are now facing serious allegations of executing numerous members of the Alawite minority in the coastal province of Latakia, as reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). The London-based monitoring group claims that up to 162 civilians have fallen victim to what they describe as "field executions," a term that highlights the brutal nature of these killings. This area traditionally serves as a bastion for the Alawite sect and former president Bashar al-Assad, who also identifies as Alawite.
In response to the allegations, a source from the Syrian interior ministry stated that "individual violations" had been observed along the coast, and assured the public that measures would be taken to address these issues. Independent verification of these claims remains elusive, underscoring the chaotic nature of the current situation.
The SOHR's tally of the deceased includes alarming numbers of vulnerable individuals, with reports indicating 13 women and five children among the victims. The interim government's forces, having displaced Assad in December, announced a military initiative aimed at tackling remnants of the deceased regime in the hometown of Qardaha. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa proclaimed the commitment to holding accountable those still loyal to Assad, as violent clashes between government forces and Assad's loyalists have resulted in over 70 fatalities. Additionally, curfews have been enforced in key cities including Homs, Latakia, and Tartous, with power being cut in Latakia province as tensions escalate.
Accusations of brutalities have left the Alawite communities engulfed in fear, with one activist describing a state of horror and uncertainty prevailing among locals. The absence of effective government support has only compounded their distress. The UN special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, voiced his deep concern over the ongoing violence, urging all relevant factions to cease actions that would exacerbate the conflict or impede a political resolution.
The local Alawite population, approximately 10% of Syria's demographic landscape, fears becoming scapegoats in the larger sectarian struggles, which predominantly revolve around Sunni-majority sentiments. Testimonies to BBC Arabic revealed a pervasive dread across various regions, as stakeholders warn that the situation poses a risk to regional stability. Countries like Turkey and Russia have echoed these concerns, while Germany has called for Syria to prevent further spirals into violence.
