Deadly Clashes Spread Across Syrian Cities Amid Alawite Protests

Violent clashes have erupted across several Syrian cities as security forces confronted protesters from the Alawite community, loyal to ousted former president Bashar al-Assad, leaving at least three people dead and more than 60 injured.
According to a report by Qatar-based broadcaster Al Jazeera, confrontations broke out on Sunday in Latakia, Tartus, Jableh and other parts of the country as Alawite demonstrators took to the streets demanding the release and reinstatement of detained former military officers who served under Assad.
The unrest followed a deadly bombing at a mosque in the central city of Homs two days earlier, which killed eight people. In response, hundreds of Alawites staged protests in Syria’s coastal and central regions, accusing authorities of targeting their community.
An Al Jazeera correspondent reported that security forces came under gunfire at Azhari Square in Latakia, while unidentified attackers hurled a hand grenade at the Al-Anaza police station in the Baniyas area of Tartus, injuring two soldiers.
Syrian authorities, however, have denied opening fire on protesters, claiming the situation is under control.
The demonstrations were reportedly called by Gazal Gazal, head of the Alawite Islamic Council based abroad. Protesters chanted slogans demanding a federal system of governance and an end to what they described as sectarian rhetoric. Many were seen carrying Gazal’s photographs and banners expressing support for his call.
“We want an immediate federal system to stop the bloodshed,” said Hadil Salha, a 40-year-old housewife. “Alawite blood is not cheap, nor is the blood of ordinary Syrians. We are being killed simply because we are Alawite.”
The Assad government collapsed in December last year following a rebel offensive, marking the end of nearly 14 years of civil war in Syria. However, since his downfall, the country has witnessed repeated outbreaks of sectarian violence, raising concerns over long-term stability.