340 Alawite civilians killed by Syrian security forces, allies
- March 9, 2025
- Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
- Category: DPN Topics
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340 Alawite civilians killed by Syrian security forces, allies
Sub : IR
Sec: Places in news
Context:
- The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that over 300 Alawite civilians were killed by government and allied forces in recent clashes, which erupted after tensions in Latakia province.
- These clashes, the deadliest since the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, specifically targeted the Alawite minority, to which Assad belongs.
About Alawite community:
- The Alawite community is a minority sect in Syria, primarily residing in the coastal regions, especially in Latakia and Tartus provinces.
- They follow an offshoot of Shia Islam, with distinct religious beliefs and practices.
- The community has historically been marginalized but rose to political prominence when Bashar al-Assad’s family, who are Alawites, took control of Syria.
- However, the recent fall of Assad’s regime has left the Alawite community vulnerable, facing fears of retaliation and discrimination from Sunni Islamist rebels.