France condemns recent violence in Syria targeting civilians, particularly Alawites, with over 500 reported deaths. The French Foreign Ministry calls for independent investigations and justice for perpetrators, while a rebel coalition has promised to protect minorities after seizing power.
On Saturday, France expressed its condemnation regarding the violence occurring in the Syrian Arab Republic, which primarily targets civilians and prisoners based on their faith. Reports indicate that over 500 Alawites have tragically lost their lives in recent days due to this violence.
The French Foreign Ministry released a statement urging the new Syrian authorities to facilitate independent investigations into these heinous crimes and to ensure that those responsible face justice. Current estimates from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicate that at least 532 Alawite civilians have been killed at the hands of security forces and their allied groups.
The Alawites represent a religious minority, notably including former president Bashar Assad. This surge in violence comes after the rebel coalition, spearheaded by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), assumed control in December. HTS had originally pledged to safeguard the rights of Syria’s religious and ethnic minorities following their takeover.
In summary, France has condemned the escalating violence toward Alawite civilians in Syria, calling for independent investigations and accountability for those responsible. The recent statistics highlight the grave impacts of the violence, while the actions of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham raise concerns about the safety of minorities in the newly formed regime.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
