Coastal Syria is facing a dire situation as reports emerge of an Alawite purge amidst President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s efforts to promote national unity. The region, a historic stronghold of the Alawite minority—who were a key support base for the ousted President Bashar al-Assad—has been rocked by severe clashes and revenge killings, resulting in over 1,000 deaths as reported in early March 2025. These events are unfolding even as diplomatic talks between Turkey and Israel seek to de-escalate tensions in the area.
Al-Sharaa’s Response and Fears of Civil War
President al-Sharaa has responded to the escalating violence by calling for national unity and launching an investigation into the killings. However, the violence against the Alawite community is raising fears of a potential civil war, especially given the backdrop of the Syrian conflict that began in 2011. This conflict, triggered by the Arab Spring uprisings, has seen multiple factions—including government forces, opposition militias, Kurdish fighters, and extremist groups like ISIS—embroiled in a prolonged and devastating war.
Diplomatic Activity and Regional Alliances
The stakes are high as these internal conflicts occur alongside significant diplomatic activity. President al-Sharaa recently made his first official visit to Qatar, signaling a potential shift in regional alliances. Meanwhile, Israel has declared its intention to maintain troops indefinitely in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria to establish security zones, a move that adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation. South Korea has also established formal diplomatic relations with Syria, further underscoring the shifting geopolitical landscape.
Challenges in Investigation and Preventing Escalation
The investigation into the coastal killings faces an extended deadline, highlighting the challenges in uncovering the truth and bringing perpetrators to justice. As Turkey and Israel engage in talks to avoid clashes in Syria, the overarching goal remains to prevent further escalation and instability in a region already scarred by years of conflict. The success of al-Sharaa’s unity push hinges on addressing the grievances and security concerns of the Alawite community, while also navigating the intricate web of regional and international interests at play.