Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair warns that the violent situation in Syria remains unresolved, with reports of over 800 deaths since March 6. Civilians are disproportionately affected as sectarian tensions escalate. The government attributes the violence to remnants of former President Assad’s regime while pledging accountability for perpetrators. CNEWA highlights humanitarian efforts and the pressing need for safety and stability in Syria.
Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair of Latakia and Tartus has expressed grave concerns regarding the ongoing violence in Syria, stating, “No one knows the end” of the recent turmoil. Since March 6, clashes between Syria’s security forces and supporters of former President Bashar Assad have resulted in hundreds of civilian fatalities. Assad, having fled to Moscow in December following a significant rebel offensive, ruled with an iron fist for nearly fifty years and is now facing a resurgence of civil unrest.
The violence erupted in Latakia province, home to Alawite Muslims, aligned with Assad’s sect, amidst what is being described by Archbishop Chbair as “sectarian strife.” Reports indicate that over 800 individuals have been killed, with human rights organizations suggesting the number is likely higher. United Nations human rights chief Volker Türk highlighted alarming reports of entire families being slain, including the vulnerable and injured, by unknown assailants or security forces associated with the previous regime.
According to the Beirut office of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), the overwhelming majority of casualties have been civilians, many of whom are fleeing the violence. CNEWA, an initiative of the Holy See, provides humanitarian assistance across the region and noted significant targeting of Alawites in several recent massacres within the governorates of Tartus and Latakia.
CNEWA reported that the government attributed the violence to remnants of Assad’s military, while Archbishop Chbair mentioned that around 80 Christians also lost their lives in these confrontations. In response to the escalating danger, local churches have opened their doors to offer refuge to individuals seeking safety from the conflicts.
The situation continues to deteriorate, with local residents, including clergy, emphasizing the indiscriminate nature of the violence. Sister Fadia Odisho, based in Tartus, described horrifying scenes of innocent people being murdered in public spaces. Demonstrations for the persecuted have met with violent reprisals, resulting in a general atmosphere of fear and civil paralysis.
Melkite Greek Catholic Archbishop Georges Khawam of Latakia and Tartus has echoed the prevailing sentiment of insecurity, noting that unemployment and shortages have led many to consider fleeing the nation. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, in a recent interview, assured that those responsible for the violence would face justice while seeking unity amongst the conflicting factions. Furthermore, a ceasefire was signed with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in the hopes of halting some hostilities and forging a new path forward for the country.
The ongoing violence in Syria has claimed hundreds of civilian lives, highlighting the severe implications of sectarian strife. With over 800 fatalities reported since early March, the situation has drawn international concern, particularly regarding the indiscriminate targeting of civilians. Archbishop Chbair and other religious leaders advocate for humanitarian assistance and refuge for the vulnerable amidst rising tensions. The interim government’s pledge for accountability unveils the urgency for peace in a nation fractured by years of conflict and instability.
Original Source: www.osvnews.com
