Syrian government understating kidnappings of Alawite women: report

Syrian government understating kidnappings of Alawite women: report Submitted by Alex MacDonald on Sat, 04/04/2026 - 09:06 Investigations say dozens of Alawite girls and women have disappeared and faced sexual and violent abuse Men hold up signs that read 'Release of the detained' (L) and 'No to killing' in a protest at al-Azhari Square, Latakia at attacks against Alawites, on 25 November 2025 (Haidar Mustafa/AFP) Off Syria 's government is understating the kidnapping, disappearance and violent and sexual abuse of women from the Alawite community, according to a new investigation. Since ousting former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, the transitional government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa said it has confirmed only one case of an Alawite woman being targeted by kidnappers. However, a new investigation by the New York Times has verified at least 13 kidnappings of Alawite women and girls.