Syria protests live: Deadly sectarian clashes erupt after mosque bombing

Syria protests turned deadly on Sunday as violent clashes broke out between Alawite demonstrators and pro-government counter-protesters in several parts of the country, killing at least three people and injuring dozens more.

Deadly clashes break out during Syria protests

Violence erupted during demonstrations in coastal and central Syria after hundreds of Alawites took to the streets to protest a deadly mosque bombing in Homs. Pro-government counter-protesters confronted demonstrators, triggering stone-throwing and physical fights.

An Associated Press photographer in Latakia reported that counter-protesters hurled rocks at Alawite demonstrators. Some protesters later beat a man who crossed into their ranks. Security forces intervened to separate the groups and fired shots into the air to disperse the crowds.

Officials confirmed that at least three people died and around 60 others suffered injuries. Authorities have not released full casualty details.

Mosque bombing sparks nationwide demonstrations

The protests followed a bombing at an Alawite mosque in Homs that killed eight worshippers and wounded at least 18 others during prayers. The attack intensified existing sectarian tensions and sparked outrage within the Alawite community.

Ghazal Ghazal, an Alawite leader living abroad, called for the demonstrations. Ghazal heads the Supreme Alawite Islamic Council in Syria and the Diaspora and urged supporters to demand protection and political reforms.

Calls for federal governance grow louder

During the antigovernment rallies, demonstrators chanted slogans calling for a federal system of governance. Protesters argued that decentralization could protect minority groups and reduce sectarian violence.

Security forces maintained a heavy presence throughout the protests. Despite their efforts, confrontations continued in several locations.

A History of sectarian violence in Syria

Syria has experienced repeated waves of sectarian violence since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Rebel forces overran government positions, ending nearly 14 years of civil war.

In March, Assad loyalists ambushed security forces, triggering days of violence that killed hundreds, most of them Alawites. Since then, sporadic attacks have targeted Alawite communities.

Many Alawites have also reported discrimination in public employment and arbitrary detention of young men without formal charges.

Assad’s fall and its aftermath

Under the Assad dynasty, Alawites dominated key government and military positions. Bashar al-Assad, himself an Alawite, fled to Russia after rebels seized control of Damascus.

His departure reshaped Syria’s political landscape but left deep sectarian divisions unresolved. Analysts warn that continued unrest could destabilize the country further.