Wave of threats targets educational staff and students in Syria’s coastal regions

Areas in Homs, Hama, Latakia, and Tartus are witnessing a wave of pressure and threats directed at educational staff and students following their participation in peaceful demonstrations, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

According to the Observatory’s sources, security bodies affiliated with the transitional government are requiring schools to organize celebrations for what is known as “Liberation Day,” imposing strict penalties on those who refuse to participate, including dismissal or detention.

Reports indicated that students are being asked to participate under threat, while teachers—including those from the Alawite community—are being subjected to direct pressure from educational and security authorities in the mentioned areas, at a time when schools are struggling to maintain normal educational practices amid these tensions.

The Syrian Observatory confirmed receiving complaints from principals, teachers, and families, warning that these measures could lead to escalating resentment in Syria’s coastal regions amid ongoing public protests.