Syria's president urges unity after mass killings

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa called for national unity on March 9 after reports of mass killings in Latakia and Tartus provinces. Clashes between new security forces and former government loyalists have resulted in over 1,000 deaths, including 745 Alawite civilians. The violence began with the arrest of a suspect in an Alawite village and escalated into reported executions by security personnel. The government is conducting operations to regain control, while schools in affected areas remain closed due to safety concerns. Fear of reprisals is widespread among the Alawite community, with reports of massacres and civilian casualties. The Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch urged the government to stop the violence and ensure safety for all Syrians, regardless of their sect.