Image Source: Shafaq
Syria – The humanitarian situation in northwest Syria has worsened dramatically as violent clashes between caretaker security forces and loyalists of the former Assad government have resulted in significant casualties.
Reports indicate that the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus, home to a large Alawite population, have been the site of targeted attacks, raising concerns about sectarian violence.
United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Turk condemned the violence, stating, “The killing of civilians in coastal areas in northwest Syria must cease immediately.” He expressed alarm over reports of entire families, including women, children, and incapacitated fighters, being killed in the ongoing conflict.
Turk also highlighted allegations of “summary executions on a sectarian basis by unidentified perpetrators, by members of the caretaker authorities’ security forces, as well as by elements associated with the former government.”
According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, at least 745 Alawite civilians have been executed by security personnel or pro-government fighters, with widespread looting reported in the aftermath. The violence has also resulted in the deaths of 125 security force members and 148 pro-Assad fighters, bringing the total death toll to more than 1,000.
In response, Turk called for “prompt, transparent and impartial investigations” to ensure that those responsible are held accountable under international law. He urged immediate action to protect civilians.
“The caretaker authorities’ announcements of their intention to respect the law must be followed by swift actions to protect Syrians, including by taking all necessary measures to prevent any violations and abuses and achieve accountability when these occur.”
He also warned against the rise in hate speech, both online and offline, stressing the importance of a “nationally-owned, inclusive transitional justice process” focused on truth, justice, and accountability.
Meanwhile, World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a post on X, raised concerns about the impact of the conflict on healthcare services. He noted that medical facilities and ambulances had been damaged, severely limiting access to emergency aid.
Ghebreyesus called on all parties to “respect and safeguard health services,” stressing that “peace is the best medicine.”
Amidst the escalating violence, there have been renewed appeals for unity. “We must preserve national unity and civil peace as much as possible,” said Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa during a speech in Damascus, reflecting growing calls for reconciliation and stability.
