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.