This month marks the tenth anniversary of an Islamic State attack on Christian villages in northeast Syria, triggering concerns about the community’s future amid political changes. Survivors express fears over ongoing violence and the possibility of persecution under new leadership, despite assurances regarding religious rights. Many Christians are torn between the pain of their past and their deep connection to the land, highlighting their struggle for survival and identity.
This month, the Christian population in northeast Syria will solemnly commemorate the tenth anniversary of a devastating Islamic State (IS) attack on over thirty villages along the Khabur River. This poignant moment raises significant concerns among Christians regarding their future in Syria, particularly after the overthrow of long-standing President Bashar Assad by insurgents associated with the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
In Tel Nasri, a village historically significant to Christians, the remains of the Church of Virgin Mary stand as a somber reminder of past violence. The church, destroyed by IS in 2015, alongside the testimonies of local residents like Ishaq Nissan, highlights the enduring impact of displacement, as many families have relocated to countries such as the U.S., Canada, Australia, and various European nations, leaving the area largely vacant.
On February 23, 2015, a horrific onslaught led to the deaths and injuries of numerous Christians, with over 200 taken captive. Churches were destroyed, and a mass exodus of thousands ensued. Now, this anniversary is overshadowed by ongoing concerns as new leadership emerges in Syria, prompting fears that these religious communities may still face persecution, despite assurances from HTS leaders to protect religious rights.
The current climate is further complicated by sporadic violence targeting Christian communities, as exemplified by the burning of a Christmas tree in Suqailabiyah. Archbishops like Maurice Amsih express hopes for cooperation between the factions in Syria to safeguard the rights of all citizens. However, the threat of religious intolerance looms large.
Prior to the war, Christians constituted approximately 10% of Syria’s 23 million people, enjoying relative freedom under Assad’s regime. The ongoing conflict has since driven hundreds of thousands to flee. Survivors like Elias Antar Elias, who witnessed unspeakable atrocities, still grieve for their lost communities yet remain emotionally tied to their homeland, refusing to leave permanently.
In Tel Nasri, the situation remains dire, reflecting a demographic shift from vibrant Christian communities to overcrowded villages housing displaced families. Despite the pain of their history, some Christians, like Janet Chamoun, choose to remain steadfast in their faith, echoing their sentiments of belonging amid the uncertainty under new leadership.
The commemoration of the tenth anniversary of the IS attack illustrates the enduring fears of Syria’s Christian community, who grapple with an uncertain future. With the recent political shifts and assurances from new leadership, many remain skeptical about their protection. The stories of resilience and the desire to remain rooted in their homeland highlight the complexity of their situation and the ongoing need for recognition of their rights within a changing sociopolitical landscape.
Original Source: apnews.com
