Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News

Syria's Fragile Peace Threatened By Sectarian Tensions

A women looks at second hand clothes displayed on a street for sale near an Alawite neighbourhood, in Homs, Syria, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)

Syria's new security forces have been actively ensuring peace and security in the central city of Homs following recent unrest. The city, known for its diverse population of Sunni and Shia Muslims, Alawites, and Christians, witnessed protests by members of the Alawite minority that escalated into violence.

Checkpoints have been set up throughout Homs, with security forces checking IDs and searching vehicles for weapons. The security forces, controlled by the former insurgent group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, are working to maintain order in the city.

Protests erupted among Alawites after a video showing vandalism of an Alawite shrine circulated. The situation escalated when unidentified parties opened fire on security forces and demonstrators, resulting in injuries. Security forces imposed a curfew to restore order.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham controls security forces in Homs.
Homs security forces check IDs and search vehicles for weapons.
Protests in Homs escalated after vandalism of an Alawite shrine.
Curfew imposed in Homs to restore order after violence.
Violence near Tartous as pro-Assad militants clash with new security forces.
Residents fear sectarian violence may disrupt fragile peace.
Efforts to unify former rebel groups into a national army ongoing.
Challenges in coordinating armed factions and preventing infighting.
Homs residents remain hopeful for a peaceful future.
City of Homs symbolizes resilience and unity amidst challenges.

Violence also erupted near the coastal town of Tartous, where pro-Assad militants attacked members of the new security forces, leading to casualties. In response, security forces launched raids to pursue remnants of Assad's militias.

Residents expressed concerns about the potential for sectarian violence to disrupt the fragile peace that has prevailed since Assad's fall. The new security forces are working to prevent any escalation of violence and maintain stability in the region.

The city's diverse population, including Alawites, Christians, and Sunnis, has shown resilience in the face of recent tensions. Efforts are underway to build up the security forces and address the proliferation of weapons in civilian hands.

The country's new rulers are striving to impose order and unity, with plans to unify former rebel groups into a national army. However, challenges remain in coordinating different armed factions and preventing potential infighting.

Despite the recent unrest, residents remain hopeful for a peaceful future and are determined not to return to the dark days of the civil war. The city of Homs stands as a symbol of resilience and unity as it navigates through these challenging times.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.