Syrian security forces killed three protesters and injured at least 60 during Alawite minority demonstrations in Latakia, Tartus, and Homs on December 28, 2025, following a mosque bombing in Homs that claimed eight lives. The protests, called by the Supreme Alawite Islamic Council head after the Friday prayer explosion in Wadi al-Dahb, highlighted fears of marginalization post-Bashar al-Assad's ouster.
Tensions escalated from the Homs mosque attack during prayers, killing eight and injuring 18 in the Alawite area, amid ongoing sectarian clashes since Assad's December 2024 fall to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham-led insurgents. Demonstrators demanded protection, justice for detainees, and an end to violence against their community, once favored under Assad.
Forces clashed with protesters despite heavy deployments, confirming one security member killed while reinforcing positions to curb escalation in Alawite strongholds. The unrest underscores deepening divisions under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, with monitors warning of broader sectarian risks.