Victims and survivors in Syria are sharing harrowing stories of violence as revenge attacks escalate, leaving families devastated. After a brief period of calm, fighting has erupted in the Latakia region. This violence involves clashes between fighters loyal to the ousted president Bashar al-Assad and forces aligned with the new government.
Recent attacks have particularly targeted the Alawite community, a religious minority that makes up about 10% of Syria’s population. The Alawites, who primarily reside in coastal areas, have faced brutal reprisals following Assad’s fall from power. Many have lost their jobs, and some former soldiers who tried to reconcile with the new authorities have been killed. Civilians are now being targeted in revenge attacks by Sunni militants who blame Assad loyalists for recent assaults on the new security forces.
Reports indicate that calls for a "general mobilization" are spreading on social media, urging fighters to crush the insurgency by Assad’s supporters. Hundreds of trucks carrying fighters and heavy weaponry have been seen heading towards the coastal regions where many Alawites live.
In early March, violence erupted over three days, primarily in western Syria. Human rights organizations report that around 1,300 people were killed during this period, including civilians, militia members, and security officials. The situation remains dire, with many Alawites now seeking refuge in and around the Hmeimim air base, which houses Russian military forces in Syria.
Survivors recount their terrifying experiences. Adiba Shehaidi fled her village, Ain al Arous, and described the attacks as merciless. "They attacked us, just like that, slaughtered us, our friends, our neighbors, our children, our relatives," she said. Another survivor pleaded for international help, calling for peacekeepers to protect those in danger.
The Alawites, along with other minority groups in Syria, express deep concern for their safety and doubt the new government’s commitment to inclusivity. As the violence continues, the fear among these communities grows, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support to prevent further bloodshed.
