• Three people killed during Alawite protests in Latakia
• Protests sparked by a recent mosque bombing that killed eight in Homs
• Demonstrators called for political federalism and the release of detainees
• Clashes occurred between Alawite protesters and counterdemonstrators
• Authorities face pressure over the safety and rights of minority communities

On December 28, three individuals were killed during protests by the Alawite community in Latakia, Syria, which were ignited by a recent bomb attack at a mosque in Homs that resulted in eight fatalities. Thousands of Alawites rallied in response to fears of increased violence and marginalization under the new Islamist authorities, following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad last year, who was himself an Alawite, according to Reuters, South China Morning Post, and Los Angeles Times.

The protests led to violent encounters between demonstrators and counterprotesters supportive of the government, resulting in injuries amidst chaotic scenes in the coastal cities of Latakia and Tartous. Security forces intervened, reportedly firing into the air to disperse crowds, as tensions escalated. Reports indicate that two members of the security forces were also wounded during these clashes, according to Reuters and South China Morning Post.

The demonstrations were organized following calls from Alawite spiritual leader Ghazal Ghazal, who urged participants to "show the world that the Alawite community cannot be humiliated or marginalized." Protesters expressed demands for political federalism, accountability for recent violence, and the release of detainees, underscoring their desperate situation in post-Assad Syria. Demonstrators chanted for their dignity and political rights, echoing sentiments of increasing sectarian fears, according to Los Angeles Times.

In the backdrop of these protests, a bomb at the mosque in Homs not only claimed lives but also intensified calls for the security of the Alawite community. The attack was claimed by the radical group Saraya Ansar al-Sunna, who targeted the Alawite sect, indicating the precarious situation for this religious minority post-conflict. Following the mosque bombing, authorities have faced increasing scrutiny over their failure to protect civilian safety amid rising sectarian strife, according to Reuters, South China Morning Post, and Los Angeles Times.