Syria: Two Killed in Alawite Protest in Latakia

Two protesters were killed by Syrian security forces during the dispersal of an Alawite protest in Latakia, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

A hospital in the area confirmed receiving two bodies. Authorities, while not confirming they opened fire, stated they have "brought the situation under control" and accused supporters of former President Bashar al-Assad of attacking security forces.

According to activists, violent clashes erupted between supporters and opponents of the government, resulting in injuries. In Latakia, at least eight anti-government protesters were injured by attacks from government supporters and security forces.

Similar protests took place in the provinces of Tartus, Homs, and Hama. The protests were organized following an appeal by Alawite leader Ghazal Ghazal for self-determination.

Since Assad's removal, Syria has faced incidents of religious violence, despite pledges from transitional President Ahmed al-Sara. In March, Assad supporters were accused of ambushing security forces, leading to a military operation by the government in Damascus.

The violence escalated along religious lines, with many of the dead being members of the Alawite minority.