The death toll from clashes on Syria’s coast has surpassed 1,000, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The violence, which lasted for two days, left 745 civilians dead, as well as 125 members of the security forces and 148 militants loyal to ousted President Bashar Assad.
The fighting, which began on Thursday, has caused significant disruptions. Electricity and water supplies have been cut off in large parts of Latakia. Many bakeries have also closed, worsening the situation for civilians.
Sectarian violence and revenge killings
The violence began after insurgents took control of Syria three months ago. The new government in Damascus claims the clashes were in response to attacks by Assad’s loyalists. They also attribute much of the violence to individual actions.
Following the fighting, revenge killings began. Sunni Muslim gunmen loyal to the government targeted Assad’s Alawite sect. In coastal towns, they shot Alawites in the streets and at their homes. Some homes were looted and set on fire. Many residents fled to nearby mountains.
Baniyas, one of the worst-hit towns, saw bodies left unburied in the streets and on rooftops. One resident said at least 20 people were killed in his neighbourhood. Some died in their homes, others in their shops.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that 428 Alawites were killed in revenge attacks, along with 120 pro-Assad fighters and 89 security personnel. Rami Abdurrahman, the Observatory’s chief, called it one of the worst massacres in the Syrian conflict.
Funerals have taken place for some of the victims. On Saturday, 31 people killed in Tuwaym were buried in a mass grave. Among them were nine children and four women.
Government forces regain control over some areas
The violence started when government forces attempted to detain a wanted person near Jableh. Assad loyalists ambushed them, sparking further clashes. Syrian state media reported that government forces have regained control of most affected areas. Authorities have also closed roads to prevent further violence.
The situation remains tense, and the full extent of the damage is still unclear. Efforts to restore stability continue, but the region’s future remains uncertain.
