Alawite women and girls in Syria are being kidnapped at alarming rates, according to a New York Times investigation, with families and activists alleging the abductions are part of a systematic campaign of sectarian revenge against the minority group. The report details cases where victims were held in dank basements, drugged, and raped, with some becoming pregnant. Families paid ransoms totaling $17,000 in one verified case, while others received no proof of their loved ones' survival.

The government has denied targeting Alawites, claiming only one kidnapping was real and suggesting victims were involved in crimes or ran away. This denial comes amid deep sectarian tensions following the 2024 ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, whose Alawite sect dominates the security apparatus. Activists and the Times documented over 80 disappearances since early 2025, with 26 confirmed kidnappings, though the government has provided no support to survivors.

The violence, including 1,400 deaths in March 2025 sectarian clashes, has left many Alawites fearing for their safety. The investigation relied on interviews with victims, relatives, and aid workers, though many spoke anonymously due to fear of reprisals. The disappearances and lack of accountability continue to fuel distrust between Alawites and the new government.