As an expert in Middle Eastern studies, I can provide an in-depth analysis of the religious composition and political landscape of Syria. It's important to understand that the Syrian government is not defined by a single religious sect but rather by its political ideology and the composition of its leadership. However, it is true that the ruling elite in Syria has historically been associated with a particular branch of Shia Islam known as Alawites. The Alawites are a minority group within Syria, making up approximately 12% of the population. They are an offshoot of the Twelver Shia Islam and have distinct religious practices and beliefs that set them apart from mainstream Sunni and Shia Muslims. The Alawites have been the dominant political force in Syria since the 1960s, following a coup that brought the Ba'ath Party to power. The Ba'ath Party, which has ruled Syria since then, is a secular party that has sought to unify the various religious and ethnic groups within the country under a nationalist banner. The Sunnis, on the other hand, constitute the majority of the Syrian population, with estimates ranging from 60% to 75%. Sunnis are predominantly Arab, but there are also Kurdish and Turkoman Sunnis. Despite being the majority, Sunnis have not held the reins of power in Syria since the Ba'athist coup. The tension between the Sunni majority and the Alawite-led government has been a significant factor in the ongoing conflict in Syria. It's also worth noting the Twelvers and Ismailis, who are part of the Shia minority in Syria. Twelvers are the largest branch of Shia Islam, while Ismailis are a smaller branch with distinct beliefs and practices. Both groups have a presence in Syria, contributing to the country's religious diversity. The Syrian conflict is complex and multifaceted, with religious, ethnic, and political dimensions intertwined. While the government is led by Alawites, it does not represent the entirety of the Alawite community, nor does it speak for all Shia Muslims in Syria. The conflict has seen various factions, including both Sunni and Shia groups, fighting against the government as well as against each other. In conclusion, the Syrian government is led by an Alawite elite, which is a branch of Shia Islam. However, it is crucial to recognize that the Syrian population is predominantly Sunni, and the government's affiliation with a particular religious group is just one aspect of a much broader and more complicated political situation. read more >>

Islam in Syria is followed by 87% of the country's total population: Sunnis make up 75% of the total, mostly of Arab, Kurdish and Turkoman ethnicities. Shias make up the remaining 12%: Alawites are the predominant Shia group, followed by Twelvers and Ismailis.read more >>