Over 340 killed in Syrian crackdown on Alawites

Gunmen and security forces linked to Syria's new Islamist rulers have killed over 340 people in the Alawite region since Thursday. This violence is described as the worst in years during the ongoing civil conflict. The crackdown targets what the new authority claims is an insurgency connected to former president Bashar al-Assad's government. Reports include execution-style killings and widespread fear among civilians, leading many to flee their homes. Syria's defense ministry is attempting to restore order and prevent further violations against civilians. Thousands of Alawite and Christian residents have sought refuge at a Russian military base amid ongoing violence and chaos.