As we enter Mezzeh 86, a working-class neighbourhood in the western part of Damascus, armed personnel from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) greet us at a checkpoint.
The condition of the buildings is deteriorating, requiring significant repairs.
The region is primarily inhabited by individuals belonging to Bashar al-Assad‘s Alawite sect, which is an offshoot of Shia Islam and constitutes one of the most significant religious minorities in Syria.
The Alawite minority has maintained a grip on power in the predominantly Sunni Muslim nation for five decades, with members of the Assad family occupying key roles in the government, military, and intelligence sectors.
In the wake of the Assad regime’s overthrow, concerns are mounting within the community regarding potential reprisals. This anxiety is particularly pronounced following the rise of HTS, a Sunni Islamist group that has historical ties to al-Qaeda in Syria.
Numerous Alawites contacted via phone declined to engage in conversation, with several expressing fear as a primary reason for their silence.
In Mezzeh 86, HTS fighters at a checkpoint evoked little concern among the local populace.
A significant number of Alawites approached us, eager to dissociate themselves from the Assad regime.
Throughout the Assad regime, a prevailing stereotype emerged regarding the Alawites, suggesting that they monopolized job opportunities and enjoyed significant wealth. “In reality, the majority of Alawites live in poverty, with only one in a thousand being wealthy,” stated Mohammad Shaheen, a 26-year-old pharmacy student.
“During their visit to Alawite villages near the coast, HTS discovered that all the communities were struggling with poverty.” He noted that the Assad family accumulated wealth, pointing to the Alawite heartland in the western part of the country.
Hasan Dawood, a shopkeeper, remarked, “We were essentially slaves for him – serving as drivers, cooks, and cleaners.”
A palpable sense of betrayal lingers in the air.
Bashar has been labelled a traitor. The manner of his escape has been described as lacking in bravery. It would have been appropriate for him to address the public and provide an update on the situation. “He departed without saying anything, resulting in a chaotic situation,” stated Mohammad.
Members of the Alawite community, as well as residents of this neighbourhood, have been known to serve in the security forces under Assad, which are often described as brutal. We inquired whether they were concerned about potential reprisals.
Individuals with military backgrounds who engaged in misconduct have absconded. Their whereabouts remain a mystery. Thaier Shaheen, a construction worker, stated, “They fear retaliation.”
“Individuals without direct involvement in violence remain unafraid and have chosen to stay behind.”
Reports indicate that there have been several reprisal killings in various regions of the country; however, there is currently no evidence linking these incidents to HTS.
As of now, we are in a satisfactory position. Discussions with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham reveal a notable level of respect in their interactions. Some individuals are not affiliated with HTS but are impersonating them and issuing threats. “They want our society to fail, and they are the ones we fear,” stated Mohammad.
Following their takeover of Damascus, HTS and its allies announced that individuals from the ousted regime implicated in acts of torture and murder would face accountability. However, the specifics of how this justice will be administered remain uncertain.
HTS has stated that it will protect the rights and freedoms of religious and ethnic minorities.
The organization has sought to distance itself from its jihadist history. However, the presence of an Islamist faction raises questions about the implications for Syria’s diverse social fabric.”I am filled with joy at the news of the fall of the Assad regime.” This feels like a dream realized.
Living under a dictatorship is an experience that few desire. However, there are rising concerns. “I must approach this with realism,” stated Youssef Sabbagh, a lawyer of Christian faith.
HTS has emerged as a significant force, identified as an Islamic militia. That is precisely what they are. The hope is for the emergence of a contemporary Islamic militia.
“I express this sentiment not only as a Christian but also on behalf of many Syrians, including Muslims and others. There is a shared desire among us to prevent Syria from descending into a situation akin to Afghanistan or becoming another Libya.” The hardships we have endured are significant.
The Christian community in Syria is one of the oldest globally, and the nation hosts several notable holy sites.
As the uprising against Assad commenced in 2011, the Christian community exhibited initial hesitance in aligning with either faction. However, as the conflict progressed, individuals from this community engaged in battles on both sides.
During a recent interview with the BBC, Archbishop Jacques Murad of Homs revealed that there had been three meetings with HTS in the past week, where both parties were able to candidly share their perspectives and concerns.
The current indicators provide a sense of reassurance for numerous Christians.
Establishments offering alcoholic beverages are currently operational in the Christian quarter of Old Damascus and various other areas of the city. Many locations have begun to display their Christmas decorations.
In a restaurant in the Old City, we encountered lawyer Ouday al-Khayat, who identifies as a Shia Muslim.
Anticipation and anxiety are palpable in the air. “The indications from HTS are promising, but we need to remain patient and observant,” he stated.
While it is impossible to ascertain the views of the entire Shia community, there is a notable apprehension regarding a situation that could mirror the conflicts seen in Libya or Iraq. However, I contend that Syria presents a unique case. Syrian society’s diversity has a long-standing history.
The journey took us approximately 110 kilometres (70 miles) southeast of Damascus. We navigated through the striking black volcanic hills to reach the city of Suweida, a significant centre for Syria’s Druze community.
While the Druze faith originated as an offshoot of Shia Islam, it has developed a distinct identity and set of beliefs that set it apart from its roots.
A significant number of Druze expressed loyalty to the Assad regime, driven by the belief that it would safeguard minority groups.
Opposition intensified throughout the war, and protests have occurred in recent years.
The recent events began in the central square of Suweida in August 2023 and persisted until the regime’s collapse.
Activist Wajiha al-Hajjar argues that the protests in Syria were not met with the same level of brutality as previous demonstrations, suggesting that President Assad aimed to project an image of safeguarding minority groups to both the international community and his foreign allies.
“The authorities attempted to stifle our protest through alternative means—not with weapons or shelling, but by stripping us of our passports, civil rights, and access to essential official documents.” “Leaving Suweida has become increasingly challenging, and a sort of siege has been established,” she stated.
Every day, hundreds continue to assemble in the square. During our visit, a palpable sense of celebration filled the atmosphere. Amidst the vibrant atmosphere, the music resonated from a loudspeaker as young girls and boys showcased their gymnastics skills, drawing enthusiastic applause and cheers from their families.
“The regime’s fall is being celebrated, yet this gathering serves as a demonstration of strength.” “Should an extreme regime impose harsh laws, we are ready to remain in this square to assert our rights and call for equality,” Wajiha stated.
Suweida has maintained a quasi-autonomous status under Assad, a situation that the Druze community seeks to preserve.
This instance highlights the rich diversity and intricate nature of Syrian society and the significant challenges confronting the nation’s newly established government.
