A recent surge of violence in Syria’s coastal provinces has resulted in the deaths of at least 1,383 civilians, most of whom belong to the Alawite minority, a war monitor reported on Wednesday.
Wave of Executions and Displacement
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights revealed that the civilians were killed in what it described as “executions by security forces and allied groups.” The violence unfolded in Syria’s coastal heartland of Latakia and Tartus, regions predominantly inhabited by Alawites, the sect associated with deposed president Bashar al-Assad.
Even as the clashes have subsided, the Observatory reported that the death toll continues to rise, with bodies still being discovered in farmlands and homes across the affected areas.
Unprecedented Violence in Assad’s Stronghold
The unrest began last Thursday when pro-Assad gunmen staged attacks against newly established security forces. In retaliation, the security forces, allegedly supported by allied groups, carried out what the Observatory called “field executions, forced displacement, and arson of homes.”
In Latakia and Tartus, as well as the neighboring Hama province, at least 231 security personnel were killed during the clashes. Additionally, the Observatory noted that around 250 pro-Assad fighters lost their lives in the fighting.
Horrific Sectarian Attacks Documented
One widely circulated and verified video depicts the harrowing aftermath of these attacks. An elderly woman, identified as 86-year-old Zarqa Sebahiya, is seen mourning beside the bodies of her two sons, who were reportedly killed during an assault on their village. According to the Observatory, her grandson was also among the victims.
The UN Human Rights Office has condemned the violence, citing documented evidence of “summary executions” carried out on sectarian grounds. Many Alawites, fearing retribution for Assad’s brutal regime, have faced targeted violence since his overthrow in December.
Interim Government Responds
Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, a leader of the Sunni Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has pledged accountability for the attacks. He announced the formation of a fact-finding committee to investigate the atrocities and prevent unlawful acts of revenge.
Yasser al-Farhan, the committee’s spokesperson, emphasized Syria’s commitment to ensuring justice and avoiding impunity. Authorities have reportedly arrested seven individuals accused of committing violations against civilians.
International Concerns
HTS, previously linked to Al-Qaeda, remains classified as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States. The international community continues to express concern over the ongoing violence and the potential for further sectarian strife in the region.
