Wed Mar 12 21:42:32 UTC 2025: ## Over 1,300 Civilians Killed in Post-Assad Syria Violence

**Beirut, Lebanon –** A wave of violence following the ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has resulted in the deaths of at least 1,383 civilians, primarily Alawites, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). The Britain-based war monitor reported that the killings, which took place in the coastal provinces of Latakia, Tartus, and Hama, involved executions carried out by security forces and allied groups. The violence, which began last week, followed attacks by pro-Assad gunmen on new security forces, resulting in the deaths of at least 231 security personnel and 250 pro-Assad fighters, according to SOHR.

The Observatory alleges that the security forces engaged in field executions, forced displacement, and the burning of homes. Graphic videos, including one verified by SOHR depicting an elderly woman mourning her slain sons, have emerged, highlighting the brutality of the attacks. The UN Human Rights Office has also documented summary executions appearing to be sectarian in nature.

Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, leader of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group that overthrew Assad, has promised to prosecute those responsible and has established a fact-finding committee. At least seven arrests have been made. However, the HTS, a group designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, remains a concern. The situation remains volatile as bodies continue to be discovered, raising fears of further escalation.

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