Clashes in the Syrian coast have resulted in over 1,000 deaths, mostly Alawite civilians, amidst increased sectarian violence. Government forces are attempting to regain control, while international condemnation grows. Revenge killings have escalated fears within the Alawite community as communication breakdowns leave families in uncertainty.
Recent clashes between Syrian security forces and remnants loyal to ousted President Bashar al-Assad have resulted in over 1,000 fatalities along the Syrian coast, primarily affecting civilians, with 745 belonging to the Alawite community. These incidents were escalated by a surge of sectarian violence, as reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). Additionally, the conflict has left significant disruptions in electricity and water supply in rural Latakia, hampering communication efforts.
This violence represents the most severe unrest since the fall of the Assad regime in December and poses a significant challenge to Syria’s currently established administration, which had pledged to restore order after 14 years of civil strife. Official government figures are still pending, leaving the scale of the situation somewhat unclear.
According to state news sources, government forces have reclaimed most affected areas and have instituted road closures to stabilize the region. An emergency committee has been established to monitor compliance with military directives and hold accountable those who violate these orders.
President Ahmad al Shara has demanded the immediate surrender of militias affiliated with the ousted regime, stating, “You attacked all Syrians and made an unforgivable mistake. The riposte has come, and you have not been able to withstand it.” The violence has garnered international disapproval, with the European Union condemning the attacks, urging respect for Syria’s sovereignty, and calling for the protection of civilian lives.
France’s foreign ministry has similarly called for independent investigations into the violence targeting civilians due to their faith, emphasizing the need for accountability. The assault from pro-Assad forces has incited widespread revenge killings within the Alawite community, escalating fears of targeted retaliation. One Alawite expressed their concerns stating, “Nowhere is safe for Alawites now.”
Further reports from the Syrian Network for Human Rights highlighted severe abuses, including house raids, direct civilian targeting, and extrajudicial killings of men and young adults. Graphic accounts of violence depict troubling scenes, though independent verification has yet to occur.
Amidst this chaos, communication has been heavily impeded, leaving families in distress regarding the well-being of their loved ones. An Alawite resident reflected on the uncertainty surrounding their friends and family, expressing, “I can’t even reach out to them because all communication networks are down – maybe they’re alive, maybe they’re not.”
The recent outbreak of violence in Syria’s coastal region has led to significant loss of life, predominantly among civilians, particularly from the Alawite community. The response from both the Syrian government and the international community has been one of condemnation and urgency as they strive to manage the escalating crisis. The situation reflects the ongoing volatility in Syria and highlights the urgent need for accountability and restoration of safety for its citizens.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
