The Alawites are a religious minority primarily found in Syria, where they make up about 10-15% of the population. They follow a branch of Shia Islam and have unique beliefs that incorporate elements from various religious traditions, including Christianity and Gnosticism. The Alawite faith emphasizes the importance of spiritual knowledge and the veneration of certain figures, including Ali, the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad. Historically, the Alawites have faced persecution and marginalization. However, their political influence grew significantly when Bashar al-Assad, an Alawite, became the President of Syria in 2000. This has led to increased tensions in the region, especially during the ongoing Syrian Civil War, where sectarian divisions have become more pronounced.