Syria in turmoil again

In Syria, the unrest following the fall of the Assad regime has escalated further with protests initiated by Alawite-Nusayri groups demanding federalism. Following the recent rise in sectarian tensions in the region, the decision by Alawite groups to take to the streets in Latakia and Tartus at the call of Sheikh Ghazal Ghazali, President of the Supreme Islamic Council, led to a harsh government intervention.

MACHETE ATTACKS AND STREET CLASHES

According to statements from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), machetes and sharp objects were used in the attacks against Alawite protesters. It was reported that some protesters were seriously injured and that the events quickly turned into street clashes. Footage circulating on social media showed armed clashes taking place in the streets of Latakia and the events spreading rapidly.

SECURITY MEASURES AT ALAWITE GATHERING POINTS

Alawite groups gathered at the Azhar Junction in Latakia under heavy security measures following Ghazali's call. According to SOHR, government forces established checkpoints at points where Alawites were advancing and conducted extensive searches. Slogans such as "right to self-determination," "warning of systematic extermination," and "demand for international protection" came to the fore during the demonstrations.

The events intensified further as Sunni groups took to the streets to support the Damascus administration. In the Jableh district of Latakia, there was an attempted attack on areas where Alawite groups had gathered. Security forces attempted to separate these clashes, which involved stone and stick fights between the two groups. SOHR reported that some Sunni groups attacked with machetes, while Alawite protesters responded to security forces with stones. It was stated that security forces opened warning fire as the clashes grew.

DAMASCUS DEPLOYS ARMY FORCES

Following the intervention of Sunni groups, the Damascus administration deployed army forces to the field. Footage showed armed units affiliated with the Syrian army opening heavy fire on high-rise buildings. As a result of the rapid spread of the events, tension increased further in the coastal line and regions extending to Homs, and reinforcements were dispatched.

The Latakia Governorate attributed the events to "terror groups linked to remnants of the old regime." Internal Security Commander Abdulaziz al-Ahmed stated that armed and masked individuals had been identified in the region, accusing these groups of carrying out field executions and using explosive devices. While the responsibility for the events was placed on these groups by the Damascus administration, it was stated that security measures had been increased.

News Source: 12punto