Syria violence results in over 1,000 deaths
More than 1,000 people have died in two days of violence in Syria, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. This includes at least 745 civilians, 125 security forces, and 148 Assad-affiliated militants. The clashes began after government forces were ambushed. The violence has led to widespread power and water outages near Latakia. Revenge killings by Sunni gunmen against the Alawite sect have intensified, with reports of executions and looting in affected areas. Many residents have fled to safer locations. The government claims to have regained control over most areas, while authorities have sealed off roads to restore stability. International concern has grown, with calls for protection of Alawite citizens amid the ongoing violence.