Di Oweis was at home in Maryland when he began receiving distressing messages from Syria. Islamist militants linked to the new Syrian government had stormed the Alawite region, leaving a trail of death. Graphic videos depicted entire families slaughtered. Oweis, a Syrian Greek Orthodox Christian, recognized some victims as his friends. The violence has left Syria’s Christian community fearing for its future.
The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that more than 1,300 people—mostly Alawite civilians—were killed. The attacks followed clashes between government forces and Assad regime holdouts in the provinces of Latakia and Tartus. Historically, Alawites and Christians coexisted peacefully, but the latest sectarian bloodshed has raised alarms.
Christians Caught in the Crossfire
Oweis confirmed the deaths of at least ten Christians but does not believe they were directly targeted. He notes that Islamists view Christians as infidels but do not hold them responsible for past oppression. However, many fear they will be next.
Looting has been widespread, with Syrian forces and jihadists ransacking Christian homes. Oweis’ friend was spared when militants discovered his Christian identity, but they stole his car. Many churches now hide valuable icons during the week to prevent theft.
Concerns Over Syria’s New Leadership
The violence follows the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad in December. His replacement, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has former ties to al-Qaeda, raising concerns about a radical Islamist government. Nina Shea, of the Hudson Institute’s Center for Religious Freedom, warns that religious minorities, including Christians, could face increased persecution. She doubts Sharaa will protect them, as he leads a coalition of jihadists from Chechnya, Uzbekistan, and beyond.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the killings, calling for justice. Sharaa promised an independent investigation, but many question his sincerity.
Christian Communities in Survival Mode
With Syria’s Christian population dwindling, many are staying quiet to avoid persecution. Some are fleeing to Lebanon, while others seek refuge in the Kurdish-controlled north. A group of 500 Kurdish Christians has been repeatedly displaced due to conflict with Turkish-backed militias. Their church, now numbering 1,200 people, includes many Muslim converts, making them an even greater target.
Kurdi, a US-based pastor, reports that Christians in northern Syria face abductions and violence. Turkish-backed forces have kidnapped Kurdish women as far south as Aleppo. Despite an agreement between the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the new government, tensions remain high.
Uncertain Future for Syria’s Christians
Christians remain the least-armed group in Syria and worry that Islamist mobs may turn on them at any moment. Oweis remains hopeful, believing in the power of interfaith dialogue. Some Christian communities have even hosted reconciliation dinners.
Although Sharaa claims the revenge killings have ended, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights disputes this, reporting continued targeted violence. Oweis acknowledges the road ahead is uncertain. “For Christians, armed resistance is impossible,” he said. “It could lead to genocide.”
Source:
Syria Massacre Leaves Christians Asking If They’re Next
About Post Author
