Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Investigation Reveals Kidnappings of Alawite Women in Syria

4/3/2026

50 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In May 2025, a 16-year-old girl disappeared in northwest Syria while visiting a shop, amid concerns about Alawite-targeting since Bashar al-Assad's 2024 ouster.
Her family paid a ransom.
She returned in August after 100 days.
The New York Times investigation confirms kidnappings of 13 Alawite women and girls, including five who report rape and two who return pregnant, while the government denies.

1 of 1

Story summary

In May 2025, a 16-year-old girl disappeared in northwest Syria while visiting a shop, amid concerns about Alawite-targeting since Bashar al-Assad's 2024 ouster.
Her family paid a ransom.
She returned in August after 100 days.
The New York Times investigation confirms kidnappings of 13 Alawite women and girls, including five who report rape and two who return pregnant, while the government denies.