Escalating Violence in Syria's Alawite Stronghold

Recent clashes in Latakia, a stronghold of the Alawite community, have resulted in significant casualties, with 48 reported dead, including both soldiers and civilians. The fighting, marked by the use of heavy weaponry and helicopter gunships, erupted between the interim government forces and loyalists of the ousted Assad regime.

Amidst the turmoil, Ibrahim Huweidscha, a controversial figure linked to past assassinations, has been arrested. The conflict has raised fears of sectarian retaliation among the Alawite population, prompting authorities to impose overnight curfews in affected areas.

As the transitional government strives to restore order, the specter of collective punishment looms, further complicating an already volatile situation.