A war monitor in Syria reported on Saturday that security forces and their allies had killed over 300 civilians from the Alawite minority. The killings happened as authorities clashed with militants loyal to former leader Bashar al-Assad.
Escalating Conflict
Restoring security remains a major challenge for Syria’s new authorities. Islamist-led forces ousted Assad in December, and his Alawite supporters are now fighting back. In response, the new government launched a counter-operation in the Alawite stronghold along the Mediterranean coast.
Deadly clashes on Thursday triggered the security crackdown. Tensions had already been rising in the area before the latest violence erupted.
Civilian Deaths and Executions
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that security forces and allied groups killed 340 Alawite civilians in Syria’s coastal regions and the Latakia mountains. The Observatory stated that many victims were executed, and pro-government fighters looted homes and properties.
These killings raised the total death toll to 553. The casualties include 93 security personnel from the new government and 120 pro-Assad fighters.
The bloodshed started after security forces arrested a wanted individual in an Alawite village. The Observatory noted that the situation calmed slightly on Saturday, but authorities continued their crackdown and deployed reinforcements.
Attack on National Hospital
Early Saturday, state news agency SANA reported that security forces repelled an attack on the national hospital in Latakia. Authorities blamed "remnants of the ousted regime" for the assault.
Government’s Warning
On Friday, Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa urged the insurgents to surrender. He warned them to "lay down your weapons before it's too late."
Western powers and Syria’s neighbors have called for unity. They stress the need for stability as Syria seeks funds to rebuild after years of war under Assad.
Massacres and Human Rights Concerns
The Britain-based Observatory reported multiple massacres in recent days. Women and children were among the dead. The group claimed most victims were executed by forces linked to the Ministry of Defense and the Interior.
Activists released disturbing footage. One video showed bodies in civilian clothing lying outside a house, with bloodstains nearby. Another clip appeared to show soldiers executing people at close range. AFP could not verify these images.
Global Reactions
Geir Pedersen, the UN envoy for Syria, called the reports "very troubling." He urged all sides to avoid actions that could destabilize Syria and block political progress.
Aron Lund of Century International warned that the violence signaled trouble ahead. He said Syria’s new government lacks local support and relies on force to control opposition.
"All they have is repressive power," Lund said. "And much of that comes from jihadist fighters who see Alawites as enemies of God."