Syrian security forces heightened their presence in Alawite regions following reports of nearly 750 civilian deaths, amid escalating violence linked to recent governmental clashes. The Syrian Observatory detailed ongoing executions and looting, contributing to a total death toll exceeding 1,000. The government is responding through increased security measures while facing substantial public outrage and fear of reprisals.
On Saturday, Syrian security forces intensified their presence in the Alawite region along the Mediterranean coast following reports of significant civilian casualties within this demographic. A war monitor revealed that approximately 750 Alawite civilians were killed in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus due to violent clashes that erupted after the government arrested a wanted suspect in a predominantly Alawite village.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported these fatalities resulted from executions conducted by security personnel and pro-government fighters who were also accused of looting homes and properties. The unrest has culminated in a total of 1,018 deaths, which includes members of the new government’s security forces and pro-Assad fighters.
In response to the turmoil, state media indicated that security reinforcements were deployed in Latakia, Jableh, and Baniyas to restore control. Local residents, including 67-year-old Samir Haidar, expressed concern for their safety amidst allegations of violent home invasions by armed groups. Haidar, despite being an Alawite himself, referenced his opposition to the Assad regime, noting his previous imprisonment.
SANA, the official news agency, reported that security forces had regained control in areas previously plagued by loyalist attacks. The Education Minister announced school closures in Latakia and Tartus due to the precarious security situation, compounded by power outages resulting from strikes on the electrical grid.
The aftermath of the clashes has supposedly led to a relative calm, although authorities remain vigilant against potential acts of revenge. Security officials stressed their commitment to preventing any form of sedition. The enduring tensions reflect the Syrian government’s challenges, particularly regarding engagements with the Alawite community, which is still haunted by the oppressive legacy of the Assad regime.
Social media contributions have documented harrowing accounts of the violence, with civilians reporting family members being slain. With allegations of mass killings often circulating, these events have elicited widespread condemnation from various religious leaders and observers, who have called for an immediate end to the violence. Experts conclude that the new government’s reliance on repressive measures may further alienate segments of the populace, indicating a bleak outlook for stability in the region.
In summary, the situation in Syria’s Alawite heartland remains dire as recent clashes have resulted in significant civilian casualties. The deployment of security forces aims to restore order amidst fears of reprisals against the Alawite community due to the Assad regime’s history of brutality. Ongoing violence has incited widespread condemnation from various leaders, indicating a potential crisis in trust and governance as the new authorities grapple with maintaining control and order in a turbulent landscape.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
