The death toll from two days of clashes between Syrian security forces and loyalists of ousted president Bashar Assad has surpassed 1,000, making it one of the deadliest acts of violence since the Syrian conflict began 14 years ago.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported on Saturday, March 8, that 745 civilians, primarily shot at close range, along with 125 government security members and 148 Assad-affiliated militants, were killed.
The Greek foreign ministry expressed concern over the “numerous civilian clashes” reported in Syria, issuing a statement on X.
“We are deeply alarmed by reports of violent clashes with numerous civilian casualties in Syria. We call on all sides to show responsibility and seek peaceful solutions, refraining from actions that would further inflame tensions,” the ministry said.
We are deeply alarmed by reports of violent clashes with numerous civilian casualties in Syria. We call on all sides to show responsibility and seek peaceful solutions, refraining from actions that would further inflame tensions.
— Υπουργείο Εξωτερικών (@GreeceMFA) March 8, 2025
The statement emphasised that these developments highlight the urgent need for an inclusive political transition and the protection of all ethnic and religious communities, promoting national unity.
The violence, which began Thursday, marked a major escalation following the removal of Assad from power three months ago.
The government attributed the clashes to attacks from Assad’s loyalists, while revenge killings by Sunni Muslim gunmen against Assad’s Alawite supporters have added to the bloodshed.
In towns like Baniyas, bodies were left on the streets for hours, with some residents recounting the gunmen checking ID cards to target individuals based on their sect.
These developments increase the urgency for an inclusive political transition process and securing the protection of all ethnic and religious communities, in the spirit of national unity.
— Υπουργείο Εξωτερικών (@GreeceMFA) March 8, 2025
Looting and arson have also been reported, with many Alawites fleeing to nearby mountains for safety. The violence halted on Saturday, but the devastation is profound, with reports of entire families killed.
Syria’s state news agency announced that government forces have regained control of much of the area, while the international community, including France and Lebanon, has expressed concern over the escalating violence. Lebanon reported that many are fleeing to its borders for refuge.
The latest clashes began when government forces attempted to detain a wanted individual near Jableh and were ambushed by Assad loyalists.
Source: ABC News.
