The violence marks the worst Syria has seen since December. It has reignited deep-seated sectarian tensions, particularly targeting the Alawite community. The Alawites, an offshoot of Shia Islam, played a central role in Assad’s power structure, benefiting from political and military influence for over five decades. The situation remains dire, as essential services such as electricity and water have been cut off. Some rights groups claim government forces and militants alike have committed atrocities, raising concerns that the conflict could spiral further out of control. The US and UN have condemned the violence, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling for accountability for “radical Islamist terrorists, including foreign jihadis” The interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa has established an investigative committee to examine the killings and ensure those responsible face justice. However, his rhetoric has also included warnings against ‘remnants of Assad’s regime,’ signaling a crackdown on AlawITE insurgents. Many remain sceptical that the new government, dominated by former HTS figures, will truly safeguard Syria’s religious and ethnic diversity.