A violent uprising by Alawites against the new Syrian government erupted on March 6, 2025, resulting in fierce clashes and heavy casualties across key regions of Syria. The Alawite community, traditionally aligned with former President Bashar al-Assad, has shown significant resistance to the authority of the newly established regime of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which took control after Assad fled to Moscow following the regime's collapse.
According to news reports, skirmishes began when Alawite groups took to the streets, protesting against HTS. The confrontations intensified quickly, causing chaos particularly within the city of Jableh, which is notable as the hometown of the Assad family. Reports confirmed at least 13 security officers were killed during the clashes, highlighting the brutal nature of the conflict.
The videos circulated on social media and news channels show insurgents clashing with HTS fighters, raising flags of defiance after successful attacks on government facilities. It was reported by the Director of Public Security in Latakia, Mustafa Kneifati, who stated, “The remnants of Assad's militias conducted premeditated attacks on security checkpoints and patrols, leading to casualties and injuries among many soldiers.” Such organized resistance has created doubt about HTS's ability to maintain authority over the region, showing cracks within its control.
On the same day, widespread violence erupted across other regions as protesters engaged HTS forces directly. The Alawites took decisive action, storming local government buildings and challenging the Islamist regime. Notably, clashes were reported near the Russian airbase at Khmeimim, where the presence of Russian forces has complicated the situation. Here, locals have expressed their grievances against the perceived neglect and aggression of HTS.
The uprising was sparked by HTS attempting to carry out purges on Alawite-dominated villages, which provoked armed resistance. Local residents retaliated against the bombardment, resulting in mass unrest. This aggression has catalyzed protests throughout the region, with demonstrations occurring not only in Jableh but also spreading to cities like Tartus and Latakia.
HTS has attempted to quell the unrest by deploying reinforcements from Aleppo, Hama, and Damascus, yet resistance continues to grow. Reports suggest multiple clashes resulted from these reinforcements being ambushed, and insurgents successfully facing off against HTS units. Footage on social media has verified these encounters, showcasing the insurgents' growing confidence and military capability.
The situation remains tense, as HTS attempts to establish control amid rising opposition. Early indications imply the regime may not easily maintain governance as local sentiments turn against them. Media coverage has described the clashes as “one of the most violent acts of violence encountered by the new Syrian government since coming to power,” pointing to the fragility of the ruling authority.
Alawite leaders are reportedly calling for assistance from Russia as they organize defenses against HTS's aggression. “Latakia has risen, giving a rebuff, inflicting heavy losses on two detachments of HTS... the entire territory around the Russian airbase is completely under the control of the insurgents,” reported URA.RU. This highlights how deeply intertwined the conflicts are with international interests, particularly for Russia which has historically supported the Assad regime.
To this day, as fighting rages and evidence of atrocities emerge, the international community watches closely. The political ramifications of these events could shape not only the future of Syria but also relations within the region. Amid these battles, the Alawite population's survival and their potential coordination with foreign powers raise questions about the future stability and governance of Syria.
The uprising is symptomatic of the unpredictable nature of the conflict, with local powers challenging HTS authority and engaging in fierce confrontations. Without significant support, the Alawites fear their existence may be jeopardized under continued Islamist rule, and their pleas for help could shift Russia’s already complex position in the region.
What remains clear is the shift of power dynamics on the ground as HTS grapples with unrest, and the potential for civil strife brings more complications to the already complex fabric of Syrian society post-Assad. The world waits to see how these events will play out, as the applicability of alliances and the thrust of regional politics mesh with local realities on the ground.