Who Are the Alawites? Examining the History and Role of This Group in the Middle East

As a branch associated with Shi’ism, the Alawites trace their ideological roots to the teachings of Imam Ali (peace be upon him). However, throughout history, they have developed specific beliefs and religious practices that distinguish them from other Shi’ites.

The Alawites live in the coastal regions of Syria, particularly in the mountains of Tartus, Latakia, and parts of Homs. They also have some presence in Lebanon and certain European countries.

The role of the Alawites in the political structure of Syria became prominent, especially from the 1970s onwards, with the rise of Hafez al-Assad, the former president of Syria.

Hafez al-Assad, himself from the Alawite region of Qardaha, managed to come to power in 1970 with the support of the Alawites and established the foundations of Ba’athist dictatorship.

Since then, gradually, the army, security institutions, and intelligence services of Syria have been dominated by Alawites.

Although Alawites are considered a branch of Twelver Shi’ism, they possess unique beliefs and interpretations of the Quran and religious texts. They adhere to a symbolic interpretation of the Quran and interpret some principles of Islam differently.

Historically, especially during the Ottoman era, the Alawites faced pressure and persecution due to these differences.

There is also a significant population of Alawites in Turkey, with followers of this faith scattered throughout Anatolia and Azerbaijan.

They typically follow mystical and Sufi teachings and, unlike other Shiite Muslims, do not have binding religious dogmas.

The Alawites share a close relationship with the Bektashi order, as they venerate Haji Bektash Wali.

Followers of Alawism primarily come from ethnic groups such as the Anatolian Turks, Azerbaijani Turks, Tatars, Kurds, and Turkmen.