Syria’s President Calls for Unity Amid Reports of Mass Killings

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has called for national unity following reports of mass killings in the Alawite-majority regions of Latakia and Tartus provinces. Clashes between new security forces and loyalists of the former Assad regime erupted on Thursday, leading to over 1,000 deaths, including 745 Alawite civilians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The violence escalated after an ambush by Assad loyalists in Jableh, Latakia province, marking the worst unrest since Assad’s overthrow three months prior.  In response, President al-Sharaa announced the formation of an independent committee to investigate the violations against civilians and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.  The international community, including the United Nations and the Arab League, has condemned the violence, urging immediate cessation and accountability.