Tensions Escalate in Syria's Coastal Alawite Regions Amid Protests and Gunmen Incursions

Alawite Protests Rock Coastal Syria

Thousands of Alawites have taken to the streets in Syria's coastal regions, including the cities of Latakia, Tartous, Baniyas, and Jableh, to protest recent violence against their community and demand protection. The demonstrations, which represent the largest show of dissent from the Alawite minority since the fall of the former regime in December 2024, were called for by Sheikh Ghazal Ghazal, head of the Supreme Islamic Alawite Council in Syria and Abroad. Protesters have voiced demands for federalism for the Syrian coast, the release of detained Alawite military personnel, and an end to uncontrolled weapons in the region.

Incursions by Pro-Government Gunmen

Amidst the protests, residents reported incursions by pro-government gunmen into Alawite districts. These armed individuals, often on motorcycles and in cars, drove through neighborhoods like Qusour and Murooj in Baniyas, shouting slogans and firing weapons into the air. Witnesses described these actions as intimidating, with one resident stating the message was 'stop protesting or we will finish you off'. In some instances, individuals loyal to the transitional authorities reportedly stormed protests, leading to clashes. Syrian security forces have been deployed to contain the unrest, intervening to disperse rival groups and making arrests, particularly in areas like Homs' Al-Zahraa neighborhood.

Context of Recent Violence and Past Massacres

The current wave of protests was immediately triggered by a new bout of violence against the Alawite sect, specifically the murder of a Sunni Bedouin couple in Homs on Sunday, which was followed by sectarian graffiti and arson attacks on Alawite homes. This incident heightened existing sectarian tensions. The unrest also draws from a deeper history of violence, including mass killings in March 2025, when at least 1,300 to 1,700 Alawite civilians were killed during a government campaign to suppress what it described as an insurgency by remnants of the former regime in the coastal region. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have called for investigations into these events, with some cases potentially amounting to war crimes.

Government Response and Accusations

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has acknowledged the 'legitimate demands' of the protesters, stating his government is prepared to consider them. However, he emphasized the importance of national unity and asserted that the coast cannot be governed by an independent authority. Interior Minister Anas Khattab urged 'calm and stability' and assured that 'appropriate institutions' would address the protesters' concerns. Conversely, a senior Syrian official accused 'foreign-backed provocateurs' of instigating the unrest, specifically naming Sheikh Ghazal Ghazal as a key figure in perpetuating chaos.