Syria in Turmoil: Over 600 Killed in Clashes, Revenge Attacks in 2 Days/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A violent escalation in Syria has resulted in over 600 deaths following clashes between security forces and ousted President Bashar Assad’s loyalists. The conflict, which began Thursday, triggered revenge killings targeting Alawites, Assad’s sect, leading to widespread massacres and forced displacement. The new Syrian government, which replaced Assad three months ago, claims it is working to restore order, but tensions remain high. Sectarian violence and security crackdowns have further destabilized the war-torn country, with fears of prolonged bloodshed.
Syria’s Deadliest Violence in Years: Quick Look
- Clashes Erupt in Syria
- Fighting began Thursday between security forces and Assad loyalists.
- Over 600 people killed, making it one of the deadliest incidents in 14 years.
- Revenge Killings Target Alawites
- Sunni gunmen retaliated against Alawite civilians across the coastal region.
- Residents report bodies in the streets, homes burned, and families displaced.
- Escalating Death Toll
- 428 Alawites, 120 pro-Assad fighters, and 89 security personnel confirmed dead.
- Mass burials taking place as humanitarian concerns rise.
- Government Response & International Concerns
- New Syrian leadership blames unrest on Assad loyalists.
- International pressure mounts as displaced civilians seek safety in Lebanon.
- What’s Next?
- Fear of further sectarian violence as government forces attempt to stabilize the region.
- Calls for international intervention to protect civilians and prevent further massacres.
Syria in Turmoil: Over 600 Killed in Clashes, Revenge Attacks in 2 Days
Deep Look: Syria’s Conflict Takes a Deadly Turn
600 Killed in Syria’s Worst Sectarian Violence Since Civil War Began
Syria has been plunged into one of its deadliest cycles of violence since the conflict began 14 years ago, with over 600 people killed in just two days. The clashes erupted Thursday between security forces and loyalists of former President Bashar Assad, followed by revenge killings targeting Alawite civilians—the sect that backed Assad’s rule for decades.
“This was one of the biggest massacres during the Syrian conflict,” said Rami Abdurrahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
The new Syrian government, which took power three months ago after Assad’s ousting, has been struggling to contain armed resistance from his loyalists. However, the revenge attacks by Sunni gunmen against Alawite civilians have raised fears of widespread sectarian warfare.
Residents Describe Atrocities
Survivors from Baniyas, one of the hardest-hit towns, described horrific scenes of violence:
- Gunmen executed men in the streets or dragged them from their homes.
- Houses were looted and set ablaze across Alawite villages.
- Thousands fled to the mountains to escape the violence.
“It was very, very bad. Bodies were on the streets,” said Ali Sheha, a 57-year-old resident of Baniyas who barely escaped with his family.
Sheha reported that at least 20 of his neighbors were killed, some in their homes, others in shops or public places. Witnesses claim fighters demanded to see IDs, executing people based on their religion and sect.
Government Response & Assad’s Loyalists
The new Syrian government claims it is regaining control over rebel-held areas.
- State media announced road closures to prevent further violence.
- Mass burials are underway, including a funeral for four security members killed in the clashes.
- Russia’s airbase in Syria is sheltering fleeing Alawites, raising international concerns.
Assad’s former allies, many of whom held high-ranking military positions, are accused of orchestrating attacks against the new leadership. Meanwhile, pro-Assad forces continue to resist, leading to ongoing skirmishes in key cities.
International Concerns & Regional Fallout
Neighboring Lebanon is witnessing an influx of Syrian refugees, particularly Alawites fleeing the attacks. Lebanese MP Haidar Nasser warned that international intervention might be necessary to protect displaced civilians.
“The international community must act to prevent further massacres,” Nasser urged.
The situation in Syria remains volatile, with no clear resolution in sight. The international community faces pressure to address the sectarian violence and prevent further civilian casualties.
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