Displaying items by tag: attack on church

A deadly attack on the Mar Elias Church in Damascus on 22 June has shaken Syria, especially its Christian community. At least 25 people were killed when an armed man opened fire and detonated a suicide bomb. The attack, claimed by both IS and another group, has spotlighted serious security concerns for Syria's new government. Labour affairs minister Hind Kabawat called for unity, stressing the shared pain of Christians and Muslims. The end of Bashar al-Assad's brutal regime was meant to usher in a hopeful era, yet the recent attack raises questions about the new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and his ability to protect religious minorities. Despite promises of inclusivity, tensions and mistrust linger. The Mar Elias attack intensifies fears that minorities may be forced to leave the country, highlighting the fragile nature of Syria's recovery. The government's response to these security and sectarian threats will define its legitimacy and shape its future.