Syria's Interim Leader Pledges Justice Amid Rising Violence Against Alawites

Published 6 March 2025

Highlights

• Syria's interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has vowed accountability for recent violence against the Alawite minority, with over 830 civilians reportedly killed.
• The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported a total death toll of 1,311, including security forces and pro-Assad fighters, in clashes on Syria's west coast.
• The violence, sparked by ambushes on government forces, has led to mass civilian displacement, with many seeking refuge at a Russian military base.
• The UN and international figures have expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and called for impartial investigations into the civilian casualties.
• The new government, led by a former HTS leader, faces challenges dismantling Assad's militia networks, which continue to resist the transition.

In a bid to quell escalating violence, Syria's interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has pledged to hold accountable those responsible for recent bloodshed against the Alawite minority. This comes after reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) indicated that over 830 civilians were killed in what has been described as "massacres" on Syria's west coast. The violence, which erupted last Thursday, has resulted in a total death toll of 1,311, including security forces and pro-Assad fighters.

Clashes and Civilian Displacement

The unrest began with ambushes on government forces, leading to fierce clashes between Assad loyalists and the new government forces. The provinces of Latakia and Tartous, former strongholds of the deposed Assad regime, have been particularly affected. Hundreds of civilians have fled their homes, with many seeking refuge at a Russian military base in Latakia. Video footage captured by Reuters showed crowds chanting for Russian protection, highlighting the dire situation faced by those displaced.

International Reactions and Calls for Investigation

The international community has reacted with alarm to the unfolding crisis. The UN's special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, and human rights chief Volker Türk have both called for prompt and impartial investigations into the civilian casualties. Iran's ambassador to Lebanon, Mojtaba Amani, criticized the interim government's handling of the crisis, describing the killings as "systematic" and "extremely dangerous."

Challenges for the New Government

The new Syrian government, led by a former leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is grappling with the remnants of Assad's militia networks. These groups, loyal to local strongmen, have been difficult to dismantle, posing a significant challenge to the country's transition. Despite efforts to offer clemency to low-level officers, the decentralized nature of these militias has allowed them to persist, complicating the path to stability.

What this might mean

The ongoing violence in Syria poses significant challenges for the interim government as it seeks to establish control and ensure a peaceful transition. The international community's call for investigations could lead to increased pressure on the government to address human rights violations and prevent further civilian casualties. However, the entrenched networks of Assad's militias may continue to resist, potentially leading to prolonged instability. The situation underscores the need for a comprehensive political solution that addresses the grievances of all communities, including the Alawite minority, to foster lasting peace in the region.