Tue Mar 11 20:46:17 UTC 2025: ## Hundreds Killed in Sectarian Violence in Syria’s Coastal Region

**DAMASCUS, Syria** – A wave of sectarian violence in Syria’s coastal region has left hundreds dead, the UN and other human rights groups reported Tuesday. The violence, which began last Thursday, has targeted predominantly Alawite communities in Latakia, Tartous, and Hama provinces. Initial reports suggest that the death toll could be as high as 1,000, though this figure remains unverified.

The violence erupted after armed groups loyal to deposed President Bashar al-Assad ambushed security forces in Latakia, killing at least 16. This sparked retaliatory attacks by pro-government forces, leading to widespread killings of civilians, including entire families, in their homes and on the streets. The UN Human Rights Office spokesperson, Thameen Al-Kheetan, described the killings as “extremely disturbing,” noting that many victims were women, children, and those hors de combat.

The perpetrators remain unidentified, but initial reports suggest involvement from both armed groups supporting the interim authorities and elements associated with the former government. The UN has documented at least 111 civilian deaths, including 90 men, 18 women, and 3 children, many of which appear to be summary executions.

Syria’s new presidency, under interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, announced the formation of a fact-finding committee to investigate the violence and bring those responsible to justice within 30 days. However, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged the interim government to act swiftly and unequivocally to protect civilians and prosecute the perpetrators, criticizing the scale of abuses reported against Alawites. The organization highlighted the stark contrast between the new government’s promises and the ongoing violence. The Alawite community, the second-largest religious group in Syria, has faced fears of revenge attacks since al-Assad’s fall last December. The actual death toll remains uncertain as various organizations collect and verify reports from the affected regions.

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