The village of Aqrab, predominantly Alawite, was struck by bombings that began in the morning and continued throughout the day, targeting civilians and militia members alike. Reports from the ground indicated that large explosives were strategically placed in key areas of the village, resulting in extensive casualties and destruction. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as search and rescue operations commenced, with local hospitals quickly overwhelmed by the influx of wounded. The Syrian government accused rebel forces of orchestrating the attacks, while rebels claimed they were retaliating against government assaults on civilian areas.

As the Syrian Civil War escalated, Aqrab's strategic location made it a battleground for various factions. The Alawite community, loyal to President Bashar al-Assad, faced increased hostility from predominantly Sunni insurgents. This sectarian strife was emblematic of the broader conflicts plaguing Syria, where violent clashes were often fueled by deep-seated religious and ethnic divisions. The bombings in Aqrab became a stark reminder of the conflict's toll on innocent civilians, further complicating an already complex humanitarian crisis.

In the wake of the bombings, international reactions condemned the violence, calling for accountability and increased humanitarian aid to the affected regions. The incident led to a renewed focus on the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire, influencing discussions at the United Nations regarding intervention and support. Observers noted that the brutality exhibited in Aqrab was indicative of the shifting dynamics of the war, as both sides increasingly resorted to heavy artillery and indiscriminate strikes. The attack also drew attention to the Alawite minority's precarious situation amid rising Sunni opposition.