March 9, 2025— Syrian officials, currently stationed at Russia’s Khmeimim Air Base in Latakia, are urging civilians who fled sectarian violence to return to their homes. This comes despite reports of continued killings and instability in the region, particularly targeting minority groups.
The officials claim that the situation has stabilized enough for civilians to return, but local sources and human rights groups dispute this, citing ongoing attacks by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and other militant factions. According to recent reports, at least 532 Alawite civilians have been killed in targeted violence, raising concerns about the safety of minority communities.
The Khmeimim base, a key Russian military installation in Syria, has become a hub for coordination between Syrian and Russian forces. However, critics argue that the Syrian government’s assurances of safety are premature, as HTS and other extremist groups continue to carry out attacks in Idlib and surrounding areas.
“The violence is far from over,” said a local activist who requested anonymity. “Civilians are being told to go back, but they risk facing the same dangers they fled from. The international community must not turn a blind eye to this.”
The Syrian conflict, now in its 14th year, has seen repeated cycles of violence and displacement. The recent surge in sectarian killings has further complicated efforts to achieve lasting peace. Meanwhile, Russia’s role in the region remains contentious, with its military presence often criticized for enabling the Syrian government’s actions.
As the situation unfolds, civilians remain caught in the crossfire, with many hesitant to return home despite official assurances. The international community continues to monitor the crisis, but a resolution appears distant as violence persists.
