Daijiworld Media Network - Latakia

Latakia, Dec 29: Clashes erupted on Syria’s coast on Sunday between Alawite protesters and counterdemonstrators, leaving at least three people dead and around 60 injured, health officials said. The unrest follows a bombing at an Alawite mosque in Homs two days ago that killed eight worshippers and wounded 18 others.

Protests drew thousands to Latakia, Tartous, and other coastal cities, with security forces attempting to intervene. State media reported attacks on police stations, vehicles set on fire, and one security personnel killed by gunfire.

Preliminary investigations suggest explosives were planted in the Homs mosque, though no suspects have been publicly identified. A group calling itself Saraya Ansar al-Sunna claimed responsibility for the attack, targeting members of the Alawite sect.

The violence underscores lingering sectarian tensions since the fall of former President Bashar Assad in December 2024, when Alawites, previously dominant in government and security forces, have faced sporadic attacks and discrimination. Both government officials and local participants condemned the violence, calling for accountability and an end to discord.