Exclusive: Sectarian Violence Spreads in Damascus, Terrorizing Alawite Community
Breaking News from Syria: Sectarian violence reaches the heart of Damascus, sparking fear among Alawites in the capital.
Key Takeaways:
- Raid on Alawite Homes: On March 6, 2025, masked men stormed Alawite households in Damascus’ al-Qadam neighborhood, detaining over two dozen individuals, including a retired teacher, an engineering student, and a mechanic.
- Retaliation for Insurgency: The raids followed an insurgency by Alawite fighters in coastal areas, where sectarian killings left hundreds dead. In response, Damascus authorities launched military actions.
- Deaths and Disappearances: At least eight of those detained were confirmed dead, while others remain missing. The identities of the perpetrators remain unclear, with some reports linking them to a new Syrian security force.
Sectarian Violence Escalates in Damascus
March 6, 2025 marked the beginning of a new chapter in Syria’s ongoing sectarian conflict. Masked men targeted Alawite families in Damascus, detaining unarmed individuals based solely on their sectarian identity. Witnesses reported that at least 25 men were taken from their homes in al-Qadam, an area known for its Alawite population. Some of those taken have been confirmed dead, but many remain unaccounted for, leaving their families in fear and uncertainty.
A Deadly Retaliation
The violence in Damascus follows a growing insurgency by Alawite groups in coastal areas, sparking a wave of revenge killings. Authorities have scrambled to contain the violence, but sectarian tensions remain high. The Syrian government has vowed to investigate the killings, but experts warn that these actions could fuel further violence across the country.
Families Struggling for Answers
Relatives of the detained have struggled to find their loved ones, with many visiting hospitals and morgues, only to be met with confusion and silence. The situation has left families in desperation, as many fear that their loved ones have been subjected to executions or forced disappearances, reminiscent of the Assad regime’s infamous tactics.
Human Rights Concerns
Human Rights Watch has called for a comprehensive investigation into the recent raids, urging the Syrian authorities to hold those responsible accountable. “The cycle of violence and impunity must end,” said Hiba Zayadin, a researcher with the organization. As sectarian violence continues to spread, international watchdogs are calling for increased scrutiny to prevent further abuses.
A Community in Fear
With no clear end in sight, many Alawite families in Damascus are fleeing the area, fearing for their lives and the safety of their loved ones. Some residents have sought refuge with Sunni Muslim neighbors or are attempting to sell their properties to escape the ongoing violence.
What’s Next for Syria?
As Syria grapples with its latest crisis, the future of the country remains uncertain. While the government has set up a fact-finding committee to investigate the violence, it remains unclear if this will lead to meaningful change or merely another round of impunity. As the country’s sectarian divide deepens, many fear the worst is yet to come.
SUBSCRIBE
NO SPAM – JUST NEWS THAT MATTERS.
