Syria's Interim President Vows to Punish Those Behind 803 Alawite Killings in Coastal Region; Iraq Responds to Attacks on Syrians

Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has vowed to punish those responsible for the mass killings of members of the Alawite sect, a minority group associated with ousted President Bashar al-Assad. The violence, which erupted over the weekend, resulted in the deaths of at least 803 civilians in the coastal region, posing a significant threat to national unity, according to Sharaa. In response to the violence, a fact-finding committee has been established by the Syrian authorities to investigate the incidents. The committee, led by spokesman Yasser Farhan, is tasked with uncovering the causes and circumstances of the violations against civilians and identifying those responsible. It aims to complete its investigation within 30 days and submit its findings to the presidency and the judiciary. The committee has emphasized its commitment to independence and neutrality, stating that no one is above the law. It plans to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and visit the affected areas to ensure a thorough investigation. The committee also expressed its willingness to cooperate internationally but prefers to rely on national capabilities. Simultaneously, the Syrian Foreign Ministry has condemned attacks on Syrian workers in Iraq, attributing them to acts that violate human rights and international law. The ministry has called on the Iraqi government to hold the perpetrators accountable and ensure the safety of Syrians in Iraq. In response, Iraq has initiated an investigation into the attacks, which were carried out by a newly formed Shia group called the Ya Ali Popular Formations, targeting Syrians over alleged support for the new Syrian government and violence against Alawis. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has condemned the attacks as a 'shameful act of violence' and promised full enforcement of the law against those involved. Additionally, at least 13 Syrians have been arrested in Iraq for promoting terrorist groups and supporting the mass killing in Syria, while in Syria, seven individuals have been arrested for committing violations against civilians.