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Sectarian Tensions Escalate in Syria: Curfew Imposed in Homs Amid Protests and Violence
Introduction of the Curfew
Syrian authorities have enacted an overnight curfew in the city of Homs, effective from 6 p.m. local time to 8 a.m. on the following morning. The curfew follows unrest reportedly linked to protests driven by members of the Alawite and Shi’ite Muslim communities, two religious minorities in the country.
Demonstrations and Causes
The protests, still shrouded in uncertainty, are believed to be a response to increasing pressure and violence against the Alawite community. This community has traditionally been aligned with the regime of former President Bashar al-Assad, who was ousted by Sunni Islamist rebels in early December. While the specific demands of the demonstrators have not been confirmed, the unrest underscores growing sectarian tensions.
Fears Over New Leadership
The recent demonstrations highlight concerns about Syria’s new ruling administration, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, a former al-Qaeda affiliate. There are widespread fears among minority communities that the new leadership may impose a more conservative form of Islamist governance, which could threaten their safety and rights.
Protests Along the Coast
Small-scale protests also occurred in other coastal cities, particularly in Tartous, a region with a significant Alawite population. These protests are seen as a reflection of the broader discontent among minority groups facing insecurity under the new regime.
Video of Violence Stirs Sectarian Tensions
Amid the unrest, an undated video circulated on social media, showing a fire in an Alawite shrine in Aleppo, with armed men visible inside. The Syrian Interior Ministry clarified that the video was from late November during the rebel offensive in Aleppo, and the circulating of the footage was deemed an attempt to incite sectarian strife.
Clashes in Coastal Regions
In a separate development, attacks on security forces by supporters of the former regime took place in Syria’s coastal areas, resulting in casualties. These incidents further illustrate the ongoing divisions and volatility in the region, as various factions vie for influence following the fall of the Assad regime.