Allegations have surfaced accusing Syrian security forces of killing hundreds of civilians from the Alawite minority group amid ongoing violence along the nation’s coast, as reported by a war monitoring organization. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), based in the UK, claims that approximately 745 civilians were killed in around 30 separate incidents described as “massacres” targeting Alawites over the course of Friday and Saturday.
While these claims remain unverified by independent sources, the severity of the situation has prompted a significant number of residents to flee their homes in the region, which is closely associated with the ousted president Bashar al-Assad, an Alawite himself.
Recent violence and casualties
According to the SOHR, over 1,000 individuals have lost their lives within just two days, marking the most intense violence Syria has witnessed since the fall of the Assad regime in December. This casualty count includes both government forces and loyalist fighters engaged in clashes across the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartous since Thursday. Reports indicate that 125 members of the Islamist-led government security forces and 148 pro-Assad fighters have died in the recent confrontations.
The Syrian defense ministry responded to the turmoil by stating that the government had regained control after enduring “treacherous attacks” on its security personnel. An activist from the region described the Alawite community as being in “a state of horror,” reflecting the widespread fear that has driven many to seek safety.
Desperate pleas for protection and international concern
Large groups have begun to gather at a Russian military base located in Hmeimim, Latakia, seeking refuge from the chaos. Video footage circulated by Reuters depicted numerous individuals chanting, “people want Russian protection” outside the military installation. Additionally, reports have emerged of families fleeing to neighboring Lebanon in search of safety.
Geir Pedersen, the United Nations’ special envoy for Syria, expressed his deep concern regarding the troubling reports of civilian casualties in the coastal regions. He urged all parties involved to avoid actions that could further destabilize the country, emphasizing the necessity for a “credible and inclusive political transition.” Notably, Alawites represent approximately 10% of Syria’s population, while the majority belongs to the Sunni Muslim sect.