General Strike Observed in Predominantly Alawite Areas of Syria

ARK News.. A widespread general strike took place across predominantly Alawite regions along the Syrian coast—including Latakia, Jableh, Tartous, Safita, and Dreikish, as well as western Hama countryside, particularly the city of Masyaf—following a call issued by Sheikh Ghazal Ghazal, the head of the Alawite Supreme Islamic Council.

Shops and marketplaces owned by members of the Alawite community closed almost entirely, reflecting broad public adherence to the strike.

The action coincided with the first anniversary of the fall of the former regime and the flight of Bashar al-Assad.

Solidarity messages were also seen across several areas of the Syrian coast, written by Alawite residents expressing their support for the call issued by Sheikh Ghazal Ghazal. Many affirmed their full commitment to the strike, describing it as a firm stance rooted in dignity and justice.

Villages and towns in the mountainous Baniyas countryside, Jableh, al-Ramlah, Tishreen Suburb, al-Zaqzaqaniyya, Ain al-Rahib, and Ain al-Sharqiyya witnessed the simultaneous appearance of statements voicing support for Sheikh Ghazal Ghazal’s initiative.

This popular movement follows Sheikh Ghazal Ghazal’s call for a five-day strike, a step that underscores the collective position of residents toward his appeal.

287