Christians in Syria commemorate the 10th anniversary of an Islamic State attack that devastated their communities, leading to mass displacement and ongoing uncertainty regarding their rights and future in a post-Assad Syria. Many express determination to stay in their homeland despite the violence and changes in leadership.
TEL TAL, Syria – A poignant commemoration for the Christian community in Syria marks the devastating impact of an Islamic State attack ten years ago. The once-revered Saint Odisho church, which rang out with calls to worship, has been reduced to ruins, leaving the village of Tel Tal nearly deserted. Many original residents have relocated to countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, and various European nations in the aftermath of the violence.
This month, the surviving Christians in northeastern Syria are observing the tenth anniversary of the IS assault on over thirty villages along the Khabur River. On February 23, 2015, the attack resulted in numerous casualties and over 200 individuals taken hostage, leading to the destruction of churches and the flight of thousands. In light of Syria’s shifting political landscape post-Assad, Christians express concern for their future in the region, particularly with the rise of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa.
Although al-Sharaa has pledged to protect religious rights, the legacy of violence against Christians still looms large, with sporadic attacks continuing, such as the recent incident of a Christmas tree being set ablaze in December, described by authorities as an isolated event. “We hope as Christians that there will be cooperation between all parties of Syria in what gives everyone their rights,” remarked Syriac Orthodox Archbishop Maurice Amsih, emphasizing the community’s desire for civil treatment.
The international community has urged Syria’s new leadership to uphold the rights of minority groups, including Christians, Druze, and Alawites, amidst a predominantly Sunni population. Historically, Christians comprised about ten percent of Syria’s prewar population of 23 million, coexisting with Muslims under the Assad government, but civil conflict since 2011 has prompted a mass exodus of Christians, catalyzed further by IS’s violent campaign.
Elias Antar Elias, a resident of Tel Tal, recounts fleeing the vicinity during the IS onslaught, recalling scenes of horror and devastation. Prior to the attack, the village had approximately 400 residents; currently, only about 30 remain. Elias expressed deep attachment to his homeland, stating, “Our graves and martyrs are here. This is our land.”
Before the 2015 assault, around 45,000 Assyrians inhabited 34 Christian villages along the Khabur River. Archbishop Amsih estimates that around 2.2 million Christians were in Syria pre-war, with two-thirds having since departed. In Tel Nasri, a neighboring village, local Christians have largely evacuated, leaving behind an influx of displaced individuals seeking refuge.
Despite the uncertainty facing Christians, individuals like Janet Chamoun remain resolute in their decision to stay. Having survived a car bomb explosion in 2015, Chamoun reflected, “Our home and roots are here,” which encapsulates the sentiment of those who choose to endure and rebuild amid adversity.
The article elucidates the struggles faced by the Christian community in Syria as they commemorate a decade since a devastating attack by the Islamic State. Despite the loss of their spiritual home and the displacement of thousands, many remain committed to their heritage and homeland. The evolving political situation raises concerns about the future safety and rights of Christians, yet some express hope for civil coexistence and a tangible recovery of their communities.
Original Source: www.texarkanagazette.com
