CHP leader Özgür Özel has raised alarms about potential massacres targeting Alawites amid escalating violence in Syria, urging the Turkish government to act. He emphasizes Turkey’s role as a key player affected by the conflict and advocates for diplomatic efforts to prevent further civilian casualties. Recent violent outbreaks in western Syria have resulted in significant fatalities, particularly within the Alawite community, prompting calls for accountability and inclusive governance.
The leader of Turkey’s main opposition party, CHP, Özgür Özel, has voiced significant concerns regarding the potential for massacres against Alawites and other minorities amid escalating violence in Syria. In a statement on March 7, he urged the Turkish government to prevent civilian casualties and protect vulnerable communities.
Özel emphasized the alarming resurgence of violence, particularly between pro-Bashar al-Assad groups and the forces connected to Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). “We are closely and sorrowfully following the recent events in Syria,” he stated, criticising the government’s portrayal of the situation as victorious while civilian deaths rise.
He highlighted Turkey’s pivotal role in the Syrian conflict, asserting that the nation has been the second most affected by the war since its inception in 2011. Özel urged the government to act in solidarity with all Syrians and called for more robust diplomatic engagement with the Damascus administration to mitigate further civilian losses.
Recent reports indicate that violence in western Syria has resulted in over 180 fatalities within two days, disproportionately affecting Alawite communities. Notably, two dozen residents from Al Mukhtareyah were killed during attacks on March 7. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has vowed to hold accountable those responsible for civilian assaults.
The Syrian authorities attribute the outbreak of violence to attacks initiated by loyalists of the ousted Bashar al-Assad government. While Sharaa promises a more inclusive governance approach, there remains a troubling lack of interaction with Alawite leaders, which raises concerns about their community’s safety and representation.
Turkey has expressed support for the new Syrian government, cautioning that unrest in Latakia threatens unified progress for the nation. The ongoing crisis serves as a reminder of the precarious situation for minorities in Syria amid the tumultuous political landscape.
In summary, Özgür Özel’s urgent call to action highlights the critical situation facing Alawites and other minorities in Syria due to rising violence. His insights into the government’s responsibilities and the necessity for effective diplomatic interventions underscore the complexities of the conflict. The significant casualties reported further exacerbate fears of increasing insecurity among vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.duvarenglish.com
