Alawites face violence under President Ahmed al-Sharaa's rule

Syria's Alawite community, the second largest sect, faces violence under President Ahmed al-Sharaa's government. Al-Sharaa views them as remnants of the previous Assad regime, leading to increased sectarian tensions and retribution killings, with over 1,000 deaths reported in recent clashes. The Alawites, historically aligned with the Assad family, are now targeted by Sunni groups following the regime's fall. Recent violence has seen gunmen attacking Alawite neighborhoods, resulting in numerous deaths and widespread destruction, particularly in coastal towns like Baniyas. Al-Sharaa's government claims to seek justice for victims but faces skepticism from various groups. The U.S. has called for accountability for the violence, while the new leadership attempts to stabilize the country amid ongoing sectarian strife.