Damascus Church Attack: 22+ Killed in Syria
- A bombing and shooting at the Mar Elias Church in Damascus during a service left at least 22 dead and 63 wounded, according to Syrian authorities.The Islamic State...
- The attack marks the first of its kind in the Syrian capital since Islamist-led forces toppled bashar al-Assad in December.
- Lawrence Maamari,who was inside the church,said a gunman entered and began firing.
A devastating attack on Mar Elias Church in Damascus has claimed the lives of at least 22 people and injured 63 others, shaking the Syrian capital. The Islamic State has claimed duty for the deadly church attack, prompting global condemnation and calls for protecting religious minorities. This tragic event marks the first such attack in Damascus since the change in government, escalating fears for the Christian community whose numbers have drastically dwindled. International figures are urging investigations and increased safety measures. Stay informed with News Directory 3 as we bring you up-to-the-minute coverage of this unfolding crisis in Syria, including reactions from world leaders and implications for the future. Discover what’s next in the aftermath of this tragedy and the ongoing struggle for peace.
Deadly Attack on Damascus Church Kills 22, Injures Dozens
A bombing and shooting at the Mar Elias Church in Damascus during a service left at least 22 dead and 63 wounded, according to Syrian authorities.The Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack, which drew swift condemnation from around the world.
The attack marks the first of its kind in the Syrian capital since Islamist-led forces toppled bashar al-Assad in December. It is also the first attack inside a church since the Syrian civil war began in 2011, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
Lawrence Maamari,who was inside the church,said a gunman entered and began firing. Ziad Helou, who was nearby, reported hearing gunfire followed by an explosion. He saw fire and debris strewn near the church entrance.
The Orthodox patriarchate in Damascus urged authorities to protect churches and all citizens. Syria’s Christian community has dwindled from about 1 million before the war to fewer than 300,000.
Geir Pedersen, the United Nations special envoy for Syria, called for a full examination into this heinous crime. Tom Barrack, U.S. special envoy, affirmed U.S. support for Syria in its fight against instability. Turkey expressed confidence that Syrians would remain united against terrorist organizations. France reiterated its commitment to a peaceful and secure transition in Syria.
Syria’s foreign ministry called the attack a desperate attempt to undermine national unity.Interior Minister Anas Khattab said specialized teams have begun investigating the incident. He added that such acts would not deter the goverment’s efforts to achieve civil peace. Khattab noted earlier this month that IS had shifted to strategic attacks,including attempts against Christian and shiite communities.
What’s next
The Syrian government faces mounting pressure to ensure the safety of its citizens, particularly religious minorities, as investigations into the Damascus church attack continue. The international community is watching closely, urging the new authorities to prioritize security and stability in the region.