France has condemned the violence in Syria targeting civilians, particularly the Alawite minority, with over 500 fatalities reported. The French foreign ministry has called for independent investigations and justice for those responsible. The violence follows the seizure of power by a rebel coalition led by Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, which had promised protection for minorities.

On Saturday, France expressed its condemnation of the violence occurring in the Syrian Arab Republic that is directed towards civilians due to their faith and to prisoners. This statement followed a report indicating that over 500 Alawite individuals have been killed recently amidst this unrest.

The French foreign ministry urged the new authorities in Syria to facilitate independent investigations into these crimes and to ensure that those responsible face justice. This appeal indicates France’s desire for accountability in the midst of serious human rights violations.

Recent reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicated that 532 Alawite civilians were killed by security forces and their allied groups during this violent wave.

The Alawites, a religious minority, are notably associated with the former president Bashar Assad, who is of Alawite descent. The recent escalation in violence has been linked to a rebel coalition led by the Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), which took control in December and previously pledged to safeguard the rights of religious and ethnic minorities in Syria.

In summary, France has strongly condemned the recent violence against Alawite civilians in Syria, calling for independent investigations to ensure accountability for the perpetrators. The alarming reports of over 500 fatalities highlight the severe implications of the ongoing conflict, especially following the power shift to HTS, which claims to protect minorities yet is accused of perpetrating these attacks.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com