Violence Erupts at Alawite Protests in Syria's Latakia, Resulting in Fatalities

At least three people were killed and over 40 injured during protests by Syria's Alawite minority in the coastal city of Latakia on Sunday, according to local authorities. The demonstrations were organized in response to a bombing at the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque in Homs two days prior, which resulted in eight deaths and 18 injuries. The extremist group Saraya Ansar al-Sunna claimed responsibility for the mosque attack, targeting the Alawite sect.

The protests, called for by the Supreme Alawite Islamic Council, took place in Latakia, Tartus, and Homs. In Latakia, thousands gathered in Azhari Square, demanding a decentralized political system and the release of Alawite prisoners. Approximately two hours into the protest, gunfire erupted from an unidentified location, causing chaos as demonstrators attempted to assist the wounded. Syrian security forces fired warning shots and deployed tanks to control the crowd.

The Syrian Interior Ministry reported that at least one of the deceased was a member of the government's security forces who was guarding the protest. However, conflicting accounts exist regarding the identities of the attackers and victims. State media reported that three people were killed and dozens wounded during the Latakia protests, attributing the violence to supporters of the ousted Assad regime. Conversely, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that two protesters were killed after being shot by government security forces and their supporters.

These events underscore the ongoing sectarian tensions in Syria, particularly following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. The Alawite community, to which Assad belonged, has reported feeling targeted for their presumed loyalty to the former regime. The Syrian government has condemned the mosque bombing as a "cowardly criminal act" and reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and maintaining stability.