Syria's Sharaa Signals Willingness to Address Alawite Demands Amid Tensions

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Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has acknowledged the 'legitimate demands' of Alawite protesters, state media reported, following a surge in demonstrations against violence targeting the minority community. The protests, the largest by Alawites since Bashar al-Assad's overthrow last year, were sparked by the murder of a Sunni couple in Homs, where sectarian tensions have been rising. Sharaa, who rose to power after leading a jihadist group that overthrew Assad, assured the governor of Latakia province that his government is 'fully prepared to listen to all demands and seriously consider them.' This statement comes as a relief to minority populations, who have been unnerved by violence targeting Alawites and clashes between Sunni Bedouin and Druze in southern Syria. Sharaa emphasized the importance of national unity, stating that it is a 'fundamental pillar and indispensable' for Syria's stability. He also acknowledged the country's long history of division, dating back to the 1963 Baath Party coup, which brought Alawites to power. The Syrian president has sought to reassure the international community that he will protect minority rights, but has also insisted on a strong, centralized state. His government has faced criticism for its handling of minority demands, particularly from Kurds who have sought autonomy. Sharaa's comments come as Syria's economy remains crippled by over a decade of civil war and international sanctions. The country is seeking funds for reconstruction, which the World Bank estimates could cost $216 billion. As Syria's coast, a priority for the president, cannot be governed independently, Sharaa emphasized the need for a unified approach to address the country's economic and strategic challenges.