Rabbi Yusuf Hamra and his son Henry returned to Damascus after over thirty years, meeting local neighbors and reminiscing about their past. Their visit marks a hopeful moment for the Jewish community in Syria, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding connections and contributing to local reconstruction, despite the challenges posed by war-torn conditions. They face skepticism regarding political motives and the feasibility of permanent relocation.
In a significant homecoming, Rabbi Yusuf Hamra and his son Henry returned to Damascus for the first time in over thirty years, following their emigration to the United States. They were greeted by former neighbors from their childhood, who engaged them in joyful conversations and shared neighborhood news. Henry expressed a deep connection to Syria, stating, “I left from Syria, but Syria never left us.”
During their visit, the Hamras prayed at the al-Franj synagogue, which has fallen into disrepair, and visited the historically significant synagogue in Jobar, now heavily damaged by years of civil war. Rabbi Hamra expressed concern over the long-term reconstruction of the site, lamenting, “May God help us, this won’t be rebuilt for decades.”
The decline of Syria’s Jewish population began much earlier due to geopolitical tensions and increased emigration after the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. Under the Assad regime, Jews faced restrictions that diminished their community, driving them to leave, particularly after travel restrictions were lifted in 1992.
Mouaz Moustafa from the Syrian Emergency Task Force anticipates that the Hamras’ visit may inspire other Jewish exiles to return, while also advocating for the lifting of sanctions against Syria. He hopes the new leadership in Syria will adopt a commitment to inclusivity. The Hamras had cordial interactions with government representatives and hoped to strengthen the community’s ties to their homeland.
While welcomed by many in Damascus, the delegation faced scrutiny regarding its political implications, particularly related to Israel. However, Moustafa clarified, “The goal of this visit has no relationship to any country in the region except for Syria.” The Hamras, despite the emotional significance of their return, remain hesitant about a permanent relocation, highlighting the challenges of living under such difficult conditions in Syria. Henry remarked on the logistical issues, emphasizing, “You cannot stay with no electricity, you cannot stay with no water.”
The return of Syrian Jews, exemplified by Rabbi Yusuf Hamra and his family, signifies a potential revival of their connection to their homeland amidst a century-long exodus. Their emotional reunion highlights the problem of infrastructural decay in Syria post-civil war and the challenges faced by repatriating families, despite positive intentions to contribute to the nation’s reconstruction. This visit demonstrates hope for renewed community ties and the potential for gradual normalization within Syrian society.
Original Source: apnews.com
