Disinformation as a Catalyst for Violence in Syria

Disinformation has played a crucial role in exacerbating the Syrian conflict, particularly after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2024. Coordinated campaigns have spread false and manipulated information, fueling sectarian tensions and triggering violent episodes that have resulted in thousands of deaths and mass displacements. This report examines how disinformation has incentivized violence in Syria, highlighting key cases and strategies used to influence public perception and the actions of various actors involved.

Index

1. Introduction

2. Disinformation and Sectarian Violence

3. Impact on Military Operations and Forced Displacements

4. Conclusion

5. References

Introduction

The Syrian civil war, which lasted for more than a decade, culminated in the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2024. However, instead of bringing stability, the country has witnessed an escalation of violence, largely fueled by disinformation campaigns. These have exploited sectarian divides and political uncertainty to sow chaos and hinder reconciliation and reconstruction efforts.

Disinformation and Sectarian Violence

Following Assad’s overthrow, there was a significant rise in disinformation on social media, targeting both Syrian and international audiences. Fact-checking organizations, such as Verify-Sy and Misbar, attributed these campaigns to accounts associated with Assad loyalists, as well as Russian and Iranian state propaganda media. These campaigns aimed to deepen divisions among minorities, particularly the Alawite community, and incite sectarian clashes.

Case of the Abu Abdullah al-Hussein al-Khusseibi Sanctuary

One of the most notable incidents was the spread of videos showing the desecration of the Abu Abdullah al-Hussein al-Khusseibi sanctuary in Aleppo, a sacred site for the Alawite community. Although the attack had occurred weeks earlier and the damage was less severe than reported, the images were repurposed and amplified on social media to inflame sectarian tensions. This led to violent protests in Alawite regions and clashes with security forces, resulting in multiple casualties.

Impact on Military Operations and Forced Displacements

Disinformation also impacted military operations and triggered mass population displacements. For example, the circulation of false information about imminent attacks led thousands to flee from the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus to northern Lebanon, seeking refuge from violence that, in many cases, was exaggerated or fabricated by disinformation campaigns.

Conclusion

Disinformation has been a key factor in perpetuating and escalating violence in Syria. By manipulating narratives and exploiting sectarian divisions, disinformation campaigns have undermined peace efforts and contributed to a spiral of violence and distrust. It is crucial for the international community and local authorities to implement effective strategies to counter disinformation and promote truthful and objective information as a fundamental step toward the country’s reconciliation and reconstruction.