France condemns violence in Syria targeting civilians, reporting 745 Alawite deaths. Calls for independent investigations persist. The Syrian government vows to address security violations, while Egypt expresses concern over ongoing clashes and supports national stability.
On Saturday, France condemned the ongoing violence in Syria, specifically targeting civilians due to their faith and imprisonment. This condemnation follows reports of significant casualties, with the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicating that 745 Alawite civilians were killed in recent days by security forces and allied groups. The Alawites are a minority sect, notably associated with the country’s former president, Bashar al-Assad.
In a statement from the French foreign ministry on March 8, France urged the new Syrian authorities to initiate independent investigations into these grave crimes and ensure the accountability of their perpetrators. Videos circulating on social media depict horrific scenes where Alawite civilians appear to be executed, leading to widespread condemnation and concern.
The Syrian Network for Human Rights reported extensive human rights violations, including summary executions and massacres, particularly highlighting over 29 documented incidents in Latakia and Tartus. Amid these events, Interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa pledged to eradicate remnants of the former regime, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability for those inflicting harm on civilians.
In reaction to these heightened tensions, the Syrian Defence Ministry announced the formation of an emergency committee to investigate the alleged abuses committed by their forces. Officials vowed to refer any violators to military courts, signaling a response to incidents of violence that have escalated in various coastal areas, including Latakia and Tartus.
The clashes arise from an ambush on General Security forces in rural Latakia, escalating to broader conflicts amid the ongoing struggles for power following the ousting of the Assad regime. This turmoil marks a pivotal challenge for the current Syrian government, which faces increased unrest since the regime’s departure on December 8, 2024.
Additionally, Egypt has voiced its concerns regarding the clashes and their resultant casualties, reaffirming support for Syria’s stability and national institutions. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of prioritizing the Syrian national interest and denouncing violence, advocating for resolution through peaceful means during this complex transitional period in Syria.
In summary, the situation in Syria is deeply troubling, with the recent violence against Alawite civilians and the ensuing clashes posing significant challenges for the new authorities. France’s condemnation highlights international concerns over human rights violations. Additionally, Egypt’s call for stability reflects the urgent need for reconciliation during this sensitive transitional phase. These developments underscore the critical nature of addressing accountability and ensuring the protection of all civilians in Syria.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
