Clashes in Syria result in over 600 deaths

Clashes in Syria over two days have resulted in over 600 deaths, according to a war monitoring group. This violence marks a significant escalation for the new government in Damascus, which took power after ousting President Bashar Assad three months ago. The violence began with confrontations between security forces and Assad loyalists, followed by revenge killings targeting the Alawite minority. Reports indicate that Sunni Muslim gunmen attacked Alawites, leading to widespread looting and destruction in affected areas. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that 428 Alawites, along with 120 pro-Assad fighters and 89 security personnel, were killed. The revenge killings have since ceased, but the situation remains dire, with many residents fleeing for safety.