Amid rising tensions, Syrian Christians have been advised to curtail their Christmas festivities
In Damascus, heightened tensions have been reported in the historically Christian district of Bab Touma following incidents where vehicles circulated the area broadcasting extremist songs, according to local residents.
On Monday, Reuters disclosed that Christian leaders in Syria are calling on their communities to limit Christmas festivities this year. This appeal comes even as the new regime leadership has provided assurances that religious freedom will be upheld.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), along with the new Syrian regime, is reportedly making efforts to present a more moderate stance, transitioning from militant language to diplomatic engagement.
Al-Sharaa has reportedly communicated to Western diplomats and minority communities that his administration intends to abstain from any actions against Alawite, Christian, and other minority populations. Nevertheless, a significant portion of the Christian community remains skeptical about these assurances of safety and harmonious coexistence.
For further details, visit the original article at Al Mayadeen. The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate has emphasized the importance of Syria’s future aligning with its cultural and historical identity.
Last week, tensions escalated in Hama following an assault on a Greek Orthodox church by unknown perpetrators. The incident involved the vandalization of a cemetery and an attempt to desecrate religious symbols, raising concerns over security and religious harmony in the area.
In Damascus, inhabitants of the historically Christian district of Bab Touma have expressed increased concerns following reports of vehicles patrolling the area while broadcasting Islamist songs.
A photograph has emerged showing an armored vehicle adorned with a threatening message directed at Christians, escalating concerns among local communities.
Local religious leaders, including Bishop Andrew Bahhi of St. George’s Syriac Orthodox Church, have voiced their apprehension regarding these incidents. However, they have acknowledged Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’s prompt action in addressing the situation.
Bahhi stated that the community is closely monitoring whether the current leadership is truly dedicated to forming a civil society that provides equal opportunities for everyone.
The Greek Orthodox Church has reported that authorities swiftly detained individuals involved in the Hama attack. Furthermore, the leadership of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) issued a formal apology for the menacing demonstration that took place in Damascus.
