More than 1,000 people killed in two days of clashes in Syria, UN raises alarm

Syria has witnessed one of its deadliest episodes of violence, with over 1,000 people killed in just two days as clashes erupted between security forces and loyalists of former President Bashar al-Assad, according to the Associated Press.

The violence began on Thursday when pro-government gunmen launched “revenge killings” targeting the Alawite minority sect, which had been closely aligned with Assad’s rule. While the government has since regained control of most affected areas, authorities have shut down roads leading to Syria’s coastal regions to restore order.

Mass Killings and Targeted Attacks

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that among the dead were 745 civilians, many of whom were shot at close range. Additionally, 125 government security personnel and 148 militants affiliated with Assad were killed in the clashes.

Under Assad, the Alawite community held influential military and governmental positions. However, since the new regime took power three months ago, they have faced increasing attacks due to their association with the former president.

Basic Services Cut Off

In Alawite-majority areas, including the city of Latakia, electricity and drinking water have been cut off, worsening the humanitarian crisis. According to residents, Alawite homes have been looted and burned. Lebanese politician Haidar Nasser confirmed that members of the community are fleeing to Lebanon for safety.

Horrific Acts of Violence Against Women

Eyewitnesses reported horrifying scenes of brutality, with women stripped naked and paraded through the streets before being executed. In the heavily affected town of Baniyas, bodies were left in the open, with gunmen preventing families from burying their dead.

“It was terrible bodies were lying on the streets,” a fleeing resident told AP, describing how gunmen shot civilians at random and set homes and cars ablaze.

With the situation still volatile, the humanitarian impact of the violence continues to grow as Syria struggles with its ongoing conflict.