The situation in Syria is spiraling into chaos as hundreds of Alawite Muslims have been slaughtered by forces linked to the new government. Armed groups loyal to Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda leader now leading Syria’s transitional regime, have targeted Alawite communities in the coastal region. These attacks follow the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, which had protected the Alawite minority for decades.
Alawites, a religious sect with unique beliefs, made up around 12% of Syria’s population. For years, they held power under the Assad family, but now face brutal revenge killings. Over 700 Alawite civilians were reportedly killed in recent days, with villages like Al-Mukhtariya and Al-Shir turned into bloodbaths. Women and children were forced to watch as men were executed in the streets.
The new government claims it wants unity, but its actions tell a different story. Al-Sharaa’s Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), labeled a terror group by the U.S., has a history of extremist violence. Despite promises to protect minorities, HTS fighters are accused of treating Alawites as “apostates” deserving death. This betrayal exposes the dangers of trusting radical Islamists with power.
Conservatives warned for years that ousting Assad would create a vacuum filled by jihadists. Now, those fears are reality. The Biden administration’s weak policies and Russia’s withdrawal left Syria vulnerable. With no strong counterbalance, HTS swept through the country, exploiting chaos to impose its harsh ideology.
Christians and other minorities are also at risk. While systematic attacks on Christians haven’t yet erupted, experts like Joel Veldkamp of Christian Solidarity International warn it’s only a matter of time. HTS has already shown its true colors, and its alliances with Turkey and Sunni extremists threaten regional stability.
The coastal region, once an Alawite stronghold, is now a warzone. Residents describe machine-gun fire in residential areas and bodies left in roads. Many Alawites fled to Russian bases for safety, but Moscow’s influence has faded. Without international intervention, Syria’s minorities could face extinction.
America’s retreat under Democratic leadership allowed this crisis to unfold. President Trump had cut support for groups like HTS, recognizing their threat. Now, with Trump poised to return, conservatives urge a strong response. Protecting religious minorities and countering Iranian influence must be priorities to prevent total collapse.
The world watches as Syria burns. The left’s naive faith in “moderate rebels” has backfired, leaving innocent lives in the crosshairs. Only decisive American leadership can restore order and prevent further bloodshed. The time for empty promises is over—action is needed before Syria becomes another failed state.
