Syria experiences its deadliest violence since the regime’s fall, with over 1,000 deaths, primarily among civilians, including 745 Alawites. Clashes between security forces and pro-Assad fighters have escalated, leading to revenge killings and disrupted services in Latakia. International condemnation has ensued, with calls for accountability and investigations into human rights violations.
Recent violence in Syria has resulted in over 1,000 fatalities, predominantly among civilians, mainly from the Alawite community. Clashes occurred between Syrian security forces and remnants of the regime of ousted President Bashar al-Assad, spurring retaliatory killings. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), casualties include 745 civilians, 125 government security personnel, and 148 pro-Assad fighters, marking the most severe escalation since the regime’s fall in December 2022.
The conflict escalated significantly after Assad loyalists launched a coordinated attack on security points in Latakia, a region predominantly inhabited by Alawites. This incident has interrupted electrical and drinking water supplies across extensive areas of rural Latakia, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Syrian state media report that government forces are regaining control of the area, while an emergency committee has been established to oversee security violations and hold violators accountable.
Syria’s President Ahmad al Shara urged pro-Assad militias to surrender, accusing them of unjustified attacks against the Syrian populace. He warned that the backlash would continue against such actions. International responses to the violence have been swift, with the European Union condemning the attacks on interim forces and calling for respect for Syria’s sovereignty, while France urged independent investigations into the crimes against civilians.
The recent assaults by pro-Assad factions have triggered widespread revenge killings among the Alawite community, furthering their fears of persecution. Mixed sentiments regarding their affiliation with the regime complicate their situation, with many Alawites expressing their discontent with the ongoing violence. Reports from the Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) detail extensive human rights violations, including unlawful detentions and targeted executions carried out by government forces.
Graphic footage has surfaced, depicting violent encounters and the execution of men in civilian attire. Many individuals, such as residents from Baniyas and Jableh, remain disconnected from their loved ones, fearing for their safety amid the devastating communication outages and ongoing violence all around them.
The recent violence in Syria has resulted in unprecedented casualties and has reignited concerns over the Alawite community’s safety. The response from both international entities and the Syrian leadership reflects the gravity of the situation. Pro-Assad loyalists’ attacks have not only led to immediate loss of life but have also contributed to a climate of fear, injury, and distrust within the affected communities. The urgent need for accountability and humanitarian aid is crucial as the situation continues to develop.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
