Syria’s Christians mark the 10th anniversary of an IS attack that devastated their communities along the Khabur River. They face a future filled with uncertainty following the ousting of President Assad, with increasing concerns over safety and religious rights. The article highlights the resilience of those who choose to remain and their hopes for cooperation in securing their place in Syria.
This month, the remaining Christians in northeast Syria commemorate the 10th anniversary of a brutal Islamic State group attack that targeted over 30 villages along the Khabur River. This solemn occasion emerges amid growing concerns regarding the future of Christianity in Syria, particularly following the ousting of President Bashar Assad by Islamist insurgents, including the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group.
In the village of Tel Nasri, children play amid the remnants of the Church of the Virgin Mary, destroyed by IS in 2015. Meanwhile, in Tel Tal, a local resident prepares tea in his home, adorned with religious icons. Muslim women walk past churches in Qamishli, highlighting the coexistence of different faiths in areas controlled by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces.
The anniversary recalls tragic events from February 23, 2015, when dozens of Christians were killed or injured in the IS assault, and over 200 individuals were taken hostage. Churches were destroyed, prompting a mass exodus of families, many of whom sought refuge in the U.S., Australia, Canada, or Europe.
As Christians reflect on their past and the current situation in Syria, apprehension looms regarding their safety and religious rights under the new interim leadership of HTS, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa. While he has assured the protection of religious rights, the lingering threat from sleeper cells of IS remains a concern for the population.
Recent incidents targeting Christians, such as the burning of a Christmas tree, have raised alarms within the community. Syriac Orthodox Archbishop Maurice Amsih expressed hope for cooperation among all parties in Syria to ensure equitable treatment for Christians and other minorities.
Historically, Christians comprised about 10% of Syria’s prewar population, living harmoniously with the Muslim majority. However, the civil war and the rise of IS have led to a severe decline in their numbers, with approximately two-thirds estimated to have left the country since 2011.
Among the narratives shared is that of Elias Antar Elias, a resident of Tel Tal who witnessed the violence of 2015 firsthand. He recalls the horrors of the attack yet expresses his deep attachment to his homeland, stating, “I’m in love with this place. Our graves and martyrs are here. This is our land.”
Despite the dire circumstances, some Christians, like Janet Chamoun, have resolved to remain in Syria. Surviving a bombing in 2015, she firmly believes that their roots are embedded in the land, stating, “Our home and roots are here.” Christians continue to gather for Mass, seeking solace in their faith amid uncertainty.
The archbishop highlights that 34 Christian villages along the Khabur River once housed around 45,000 Assyrians before the violence of 2015 forced many to flee, a stark reminder of the once-thriving Christian presence in Syria’s diverse society.
The article reflects on the resilience and fears of Syria’s Christian community as they commemorate a decade since a horrific IS attack. With instability persisting and new leadership emerging, many Christians express hope for their future while remaining committed to their homeland despite the challenges. The narratives shared emphasize the importance of faith and community ties during these turbulent times.
Original Source: apnews.com
