Attacks on Syria’s Christian Community Fuel Distrust of Sharaa Regime

Protests erupted in the Syrian town of Al-Suqaylabiyah over the weekend of March 28–29 after men from the nearby Sunni town of Qalaat al-Madiq attacked the predominantly Christian community following a personal dispute. The disagreement escalated into violence, with homes, shops, and cars set ablaze and shot at. Some residents were reportedly assaulted while attempting to stop the arson.

Critics say the incident underscores a broader failure by Syria’s new authorities to curb sectarian violence. Minority groups, including Druze and Alawites, have repeatedly been targeted, with thousands killed since Islamist leader Ahmed al-Sharaa seized control of the country from the Assad regime in December 2024. A member of the European Parliament published a letter claiming government forces were seen escorting those attacking the Christian neighborhood.

The violence comes amid a series of conservative legislative measures pushed by the Sharaa government, including restrictions on alcohol sales in Damascus and bans on makeup for women working in the public sector. Many Syrians have begun questioning the regime’s early promises of pluralism, as Christians and other minority communities face mounting pressure under the new order.

(JPost/VFI News)

"Dear God, we cry out on behalf of the persecuted Christians and all minorities in Syria who live in fear of sectarian violence. We pray in Yeshua’s Name that You be their shield and defender, and that You open the eyes of Syria’s leaders to protect every citizen regardless of faith. We pray for the families whose homes and livelihoods were destroyed, that You provide for them and restore what was lost. Let Your light shine into the darkness of hatred and division, and may true religious freedom take root in this land."