Recent violence in Syria’s coastal region has led to the deaths of entire families, including women and children, with over 1,200 civilians reported killed, primarily Alawites.

The violence escalated after an ambush on security forces by Assad loyalists, prompting revenge killings by gunmen supporting the Sunni Islamist-led government.

The UN has verified 111 civilian deaths and condemned sectarian-based killings.

Reports suggest that armed groups targeted Alawite villages, carrying out executions, looting homes, and raiding hospitals, the BBC has reported.

The Syrian government has promised an investigation, while many residents remain displaced, fearing further violence.

Written by B.C. Begley