Christian communities in southern Syria are facing intensifying violence as sectarian clashes and extremist attacks threaten the region’s fragile stability. In a disturbing series of events, churches have been desecrated, worship spaces set ablaze, and planned bombings narrowly prevented.
According to CNA’s Arabic-language partner ACI MENA, vandals attacked Mar Michael (Saint Michael) Church in the southern province of Sweida, desecrating the altar, smashing Christian symbols, and setting fire to the ceiling and walls. The flames severely damaged the upper icons and the central cross above the altar.
In a separate incident, authorities in rural Tartus foiled an attempted car bombing at the Maronite Church of Mar Elias. According to ACI MENA, security forces arrested three individuals who had planned to detonate a car loaded with nearly 44 pounds of explosives. The quick intervention likely prevented a mass-casualty tragedy.
These attacks are taking place amid fierce armed clashes in Sweida between Druze fighters and Bedouin militias. According to the Guardian, at least 500 people have died in a span of just four days, with victims from multiple sects, including Christians. Some of the dead appeared to have been executed, their bodies dumped in public spaces. This has triggered a wave of fear and displacement among local populations.
Open Doors UK reports that at least 90 Christian families have fled their homes in fear, leaving behind all possessions. One local source said, “The Christians left their houses without anything, clothes or food.” The violence has not spared sacred spaces. Aid to the Church in Need confirmed that the Greek Melkite Church of St. Michael in the village of Al-Sura was set on fire by assailants described by witnesses as Islamist militants.
The broader conflict involves not only local militias but also national and international actors. According to the Associated Press, there is growing evidence that Syrian government forces have been supporting one side of the conflict, further fueling sectarian divisions. Israeli strikes have also targeted areas near Druze positions, raising fears of a broader regional escalation.
For Christians, the violence is part of a troubling pattern. According to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), religious minorities in Syria, including Christians, have suffered targeted violence, forced displacement, and destruction of property at the hands of both Islamist extremists and hostile political factions.
Despite the danger, there are signs of resilience and hope. Local clergy continue to offer pastoral care and advocate for peaceful coexistence. Archbishop Jacques Mourad of Homs recently emphasized the Church’s mission in Syria, stating that “Jesus wants his Church to remain in Syria.” He called for unity, interfaith dialogue, and the rebuilding of essential infrastructure, including churches, schools, and hospitals.
Catholic organizations such as Aid to the Church in Need and Catholic Relief Services are actively providing food, shelter, and spiritual support to displaced Christians and other vulnerable groups. Their efforts offer a lifeline in the midst of chaos.
As violence against Christians escalates, the global Catholic community is urged to pray for Syria’s persecuted faithful and to support humanitarian efforts. The Church continues to stand as a witness to Christ’s enduring presence in a land scarred by war and division.
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