Who Are Alawites, Islamic Sect With Conflicting Religious Beliefs; Tracing Their Rise Under Assad Regime

Assad family's 54-year rule ended on Sunday, as rebels seized Damascus, sparking global celebrations over Bashar al-Assad's ouster. Assad, from the minority Alawite sect, had ruled a Sunni-majority Syria. The Alawites gained influence post-independence from France in 1946, rising within military and political ranks. Following the 1963 military coup, Hafez al-Assad became President, maintaining power until his death in 2000. His son Bashar al-Assad then assumed leadership, continuing authoritarian rule until his fall, marking the end of decades of Alawite dominance in Syria's governance.

Who Are Alawites?

Alawites differ significantly from other Islamic sects. While rooted in Shia Islam, they developed distinct beliefs and rituals, setting them apart from Sunni and mainstream Shia practices. Central to their faith is the veneration of Ali, who was the first Shia Imam and fourth Rashidun Caliph, as a divine figure and the belief in reincarnation. Alawites interpret Islamic pillars symbolically and have incorporated elements from Christian practices, such as celebrating Christmas and observing forms of communion.  

Their theological divergence and secrecy have historically alienated them from Sunni and Shia communities alike, with classical theologians often labelling them as heretics. This marginalisation has driven their political alignment with regimes offering protection, as exemplified by their alliance with the Assads.

Bashar al-Assad (2nd L) attends prayers on the first day of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, inside a mosque in Hama, in this handout picture provided by SANA on June 25, 2017, Syria. 

Historically known as Nusayris emphasise esoteric practices, reincarnation and symbolic interpretations of Islamic tenets. Unlike traditional Muslims, they do not adhere to the five duties of Islam and are known for rituals like the consumption of consecrated wine. Their theology, influenced by founder Ibn Nusayr, has led to their marginalization and periodic persecution under various Islamic empires.  

In modern Syria, Alawites represent 10–13 per cent of the population, concentrated along the Mediterranean coast in regions like Latakia and Tartous. Despite their minority status, they have dominated Syria's military and political elite under the Assad regime, particularly after Hafez al-Assad's rise to power in the 1970s. 

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Assad Regime And Alawite Ascendancy  

The Baath Party, founded in 1947 with secular and inclusive ideals, attracted marginalised communities like the Alawites. Following Syria's independence in 1946, Alawites gained prominence in the armed forces and political movements, shifting from a historically oppressed minority to the backbone of Assad's authoritarian regime.  

The Assad family's Alawite background facilitated the community’s ascent within the military and security apparatus. This alliance deepened during the Syrian Civil War, as Alawites largely supported Assad in a conflict that became increasingly sectarian. Loyalist militias, such as the Shabbiha, were instrumental in suppressing Sunni-led revolts, further entrenching the sect’s association with the regime.

Bashar al-Assad follows the coffin of his father during the burial ceremony at the local mosque in the home village of the late Syrian leader June 13, 2000. (Image: Reuters)

Implications Of Assad's Fall  

Bashar al-Assad’s recent ouster by rebel forces marks a critical juncture for Syria's Alawite community. The rapid collapse of his 24-year rule has left Alawites grappling with uncertainty and fear. Loyalists in Assad’s hometown of Qardaha and other strongholds mourn the end of decades-long minority rule in a Sunni-majority country.  

Alawite concerns stem from the historical precedent of retribution following regime changes in the Middle East. For instance, after Iran's Islamic Revolution, Shah Reza Pahalvi’s loyalists faced execution, while Muammar Gaddafi’s supporters were imprisoned following Libya’s uprising. Alawites, given their deep ties to the decades-long Assad regime, fear similar reprisals despite initial assurances of restraint from rebel leaders.  

In the immediate aftermath, some Alawite-majority areas like Homs have witnessed cautious optimism as rebels adopt a more inclusive approach. Protests in Alawite regions, previously unimaginable, have emerged without triggering sectarian violence. This suggests a potential path toward reconciliation, provided the new government avoids punitive measures against the sect.  

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Future Of Syria's Alawites  

The fall of the Assad regime could reshape the Alawite community's role in Syrian society. While some foresee a gradual integration into a more inclusive political framework, others anticipate heightened vulnerability due to their association with decades of authoritarian rule.  

For Alawites, the challenge lies in distancing themselves from the Assad legacy while navigating a Sunni-majority landscape. If the new leadership adopts policies of reconciliation and inclusivity, it could mitigate fears of retribution and foster national unity. However, a punitive approach risks deepening sectarian divides and perpetuating cycles of violence.