The United Nations is urging Syria’s interim leadership to act quickly to safeguard civilians following a surge of violence targeting the minority Alawite community.The unrest erupted after loyalists of former President Bashar al-Assad—who was overthrown last December—ambushed government forces in recent days.In response, security forces have allegedly carried out retaliatory attacks in Latakia Province, where reports suggest that at least 1,000 Alawites, including children, have been killed. However, the BBC has not independently verified these figures.

The Alawites, a minority sect within Shia Islam, are the same group from which the Assad family originates.Syria’s interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa—who played a key role in the uprising that led to Assad’s ousting—has called for peace and announced an investigation into the violence. However, he has yet to directly address allegations that his supporters are responsible for atrocities. Meanwhile, protests against the violence have taken place in Damascus.The UN has described reports of entire families being killed as "extremely disturbing" and has urged Syria’s transitional authorities to take "swift action to protect Syrians." The United States has also called on the Syrian leadership to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

Disclaimer:This video is taken from BBC News.