The UN human rights office, represented by spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan, reported an alarming wave of violence, revealing the documented deaths of 90 men, 18 women, two girls, and one boy.
Scale of Violence Documented by UN
The UN attributes these killings to unidentified armed individuals and groups linked to the government’s security forces and the former administration. Disturbing accounts describe targeted killings based on sectarian affiliations, particularly against Alawites, highlighting a distressing pattern of violence against civilians. The UN had so far verified the killing of 118 civilians since last Thursday.
“Many of the cases documented were of summary executions. They appear to have been carried out on a sectarian basis, in Tartus, Latakia and Hama governorates – reportedly by unidentified armed individuals, members of armed groups allegedly supporting the caretaker authorities’ security forces, and by elements associated with the former government.”
Mr. Al-Kheetan told journalists.
Targeted Killings and Family Raids
Al-Kheetan’s testimony shed light on horrific instances where entire families were slain amid sectarian raids. Reports indicate that armed groups sought to determine victims’ sect before executing them, with numerous men killed in front of their loved ones.
The UN emphasizes the targeting of Alawite communities primarily, noting that perpetrators even stormed hospitals, clashing with security forces and leading to additional civilian casualties, including patients and medical personnel.
Surge in Civilian Death Toll
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported an escalation in civilian casualties, with the death toll reaching 1,225, including 132 reported fatalities in a single day. Victims included 62 individuals in Baniyas alone.
The monitoring group indicates substantial losses among security personnel and pro-Assad forces as well, with approximately 230 and 250 fatalities respectively, showcasing the ongoing intensity and brutal impact of the conflict across the region.
UN Human Rights Concerns
The UN has expressed significant concern over the ongoing violence in Syria. Al-Kheetan’s insights reveal a systematic approach to targeting groups based on sectarian lines, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
With mounting evidence of atrocities against civilians—especially women and children—there are increasing calls for intervention and accountability for those responsible for these egregious acts, as the safety and wellbeing of affected communities continue to deteriorate.
Repercussions of Sectarian Violence
The UN’s latest report highlights the tragic effects of sectarian violence escalating within Syria, where historical tensions have erupted into widespread bloodshed. The targeting of civilians based on their sectarian identity underscores a crucial humanitarian dilemma.
Efforts to document and verify these incidents reflect the urgency for international awareness and response. As the conflict continues, the repercussions remain dire for countless families caught in the crossfire.