Syria’s al-Sharaa extends deadline for investigation into coastal killings
Al JazeeraMAR 31
Syrian Government Accused of Monitoring Sectarian Killings of Minorities
Above: A member of the security forces loyal to the interim Syrian government guards a checkpoint previously held by supporters of Bashar al-Assad in Latakia, on March 11, 2025. Image copyright: Omar Haj Kadour/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
These incidents are isolated cases carried out by rogue elements or individuals seeking revenge for decades of oppression under Assad's regime. The transitional authorities have taken steps toward accountability and ending the violence by establishing a probe into the killings and deploying forces to protect minority communities.
Opposition narrative
The systematic targeting of religious minorities reveals the sectarian nature of Syria's new Islamist government. Despite promises of inclusivity, authorities have failed to prevent or have actively participated in violence against Alawites and Druze communities. The extension of the investigation deadline is merely an attempt to stall real accountability.