Over 1,000 people have died in Syria due to two days of violence arising from clashes between government forces and Assad loyalists, followed by revenge killings. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports significant civilian casualties and instability in Latakia province, prompting international condemnation and highlighting the need for protection of vulnerable communities.
In Syria, over 1,000 individuals have lost their lives within two days due to intense violence, as reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The conflict, primarily stemming from clashes between government forces and loyalists of former President Bashar Assad, has escalated to one of the deadliest episodes in the 14-year conflict, marked by brutal revenge killings.
Among the casualties, 745 civilians were reported dead, many of whom were shot at close range. Additionally, 125 government security personnel and 148 militants affiliated with Assad also died. The violence has rendered large parts of Latakia province without electricity and drinking water.
The fighting initiated when security forces attempted to apprehend a wanted individual near Jableh but encountered an ambush from Assad loyalists. Subsequent retaliation led to escalating violence as Sunni Muslim gunmen targeted Alawite communities, which is a minority sect associated with Assad. This represents a significant challenge to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a group involved in opposing Assad.
Accounts from residents describe horrific scenes in Alawite villages. One witness, Ali Sheha from Baniyas, recounted a chilling episode: “Bodies were on the streets. The gunmen were less than 100 metres away, firing at homes and residents.” He noted that attackers systematically checked identification to confirm sect affiliation before executing victims.
In response to the turmoil, the Syrian government claims to have regained control of most territories previously dominated by loyalists. The international community has reacted, with France’s foreign ministry strongly condemning the atrocities committed against civilians based on religious identity. Thousands of Alawites have fled to safety, many seeking refuge at the Russian Hmeimim airbase. Lebanese legislator Haidar Nasser emphasized the need for international protection for Alawites, stressing their identity as loyal Syrian citizens.
The recent surge in violence in Syria has resulted in the tragic loss of over 1,000 lives, highlighting the brutal realities amidst the ongoing conflict. With a significant number of civilian casualties, revenge killings targeting specific communities have intensified, prompting international condemnation. As the Syrian government claims regained control, the safety of vulnerable groups remains a pressing concern, calling for urgent attention from the global community.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
