Church leaders in Syria have called for urgent measures to restore security and stability after a wave of sectarian violence targeted a predominantly Christian town in the country’s west.
According to reports from the Associated Press, violence erupted in Al-Suqaylabiyah, in Hama province, following an argument between two men in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The incident escalated rapidly, with groups of men on motorcycles arriving from the nearby Sunni town of Qalaat al-Madiq and attacking homes, shops and vehicles belonging to Christian residents.
Among those affected was local shop owner Liyan Dweir, whose clothing store was shot at during the unrest. He described the situation as creating “a state of terror, fear and panic” among residents.
Government forces later intervened to quell the violence, but tensions remain high. Hundreds of Christians took to the streets of Al-Suqaylabiyah later that day, demanding justice and greater protection.
Senior church leaders, including Mor Aphrem II and John X, strongly condemned the attacks and called for peace.
In a joint statement following a meeting in Damascus, the Patriarchs expressed deep concern over the challenges facing the country, warning that escalating tensions threaten the coexistence of Muslim and Christian communities.
They urged authorities to curb the spread of uncontrolled weapons and ensure the protection of all citizens, stressing that stability must be grounded in equality, citizenship and respect for freedoms.
As Christians prepare to mark Easter, church leaders have advised that celebrations be limited to prayer services within churches, reflecting the fragile security situation.
The violence has renewed concerns over the Syrian government’s ability to maintain law and order following the fall of Bashar al-Assad in 2024.
Despite official assurances of tolerance toward religious minorities, Christian communities continue to report growing insecurity. Last year, a suicide bombing at the Mar Elyas Greek Orthodox Church killed more than 20 people, while just last month, a 47-year-old Christian teacher, Iman Jarrous, was shot dead in Homs in what locals believe may have been a case of mistaken identity.
The latest unrest underscores ongoing fears among Syria’s Christian population, as leaders warn that without stronger protections, the country’s fragile social fabric could further unravel.
