Thousands of Alawite civilians have sought refuge at Russia's Hmeimim military air base in western Syria, as sectarian violence has escalated in the region, according to reports from a war monitoring group.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights stated that this influx occurred on March 11, 2025, after clashes erupted between security forces and fighters loyal to former President Bashar Assad.

Since the onset of the violence on March 7, an estimated 1,225 civilians, predominantly Alawites, have reportedly been killed, with the violence primarily affecting the coastal areas of Syria, historically populated by the Alawite community.

Many of those displaced began arriving at the base on Friday, seeking safety from the ongoing violence.

Reports indicate that some families are reluctant to return to their homes, fearing further attacks and violence, while others have reported that their residences have been destroyed.

The displaced individuals are facing severe shortages of food, medical supplies, and other essential resources.

In response to the situation, Jableh's mayor, Amjad Sultan, visited Hmeimim to reassure evacuees that conditions outside were improving.

He reported that security forces were deploying in the area to restore order.

Sultan also noted that efforts were being made to evacuate wounded individuals, some of whom were already being transported by ambulances.

At the air base, journalists observed a convoy from the Syrian Red Crescent facilitating the evacuation of several wounded civilians.

Displaced families gathered outside the base, some protesting for international protection and expressing their support for Russia, whose military involvement has heavily influenced the ongoing conflict in Syria since 2015.

Russia has sought to engage with new authorities in Damascus, aiming to maintain its military presence in the region, which includes the Hmeimim air base and the naval facility in Tartus.