Syria's Coastal Region Sees Escalation in Sectarian Violence and Killings

In a troubling escalation of violence, the Syrian Network for Human Rights revealed that armed factions and foreign fighters linked to the Syrian government, but not formally incorporated into its ranks, have been the primary perpetrators of sectarian massacres in the coastal areas of Syria this past week. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concern on Wednesday regarding the significant civilian casualties that occurred in Alawite-majority territories, emphasizing the need for scrutiny over the actions of interim authorities.

The monitoring group noted that the recent uptick in violence has involved “extrajudicial killings, field executions, and systematic mass killings" that stem from motives of revenge and sectarian hatred. The alarming events began almost a week ago in Latakia and Tartus Provinces, where fights erupted between forces loyal to the newly-established government—comprised mainly of Islamist former rebels—and those who remained loyal to the ousted dictator Bashar al-Assad. Tensions escalated when pro-Assad forces launched an ambush that resulted in the deaths of over a dozen security personnel, prompting the government to reinforce its military presence in the coastal region.

As the situation continues to unfold, concerns grow not only over the immediate violence but also regarding its long-term implications for stability in Syria and the plight of its diverse religious minorities.