The ongoing violence in Syria, described by Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair, has resulted in hundreds of civilian deaths as security forces confront remnants of the Assad regime. Recent reports indicate severe sectarian strife, with targeted attacks leading to significant casualties among both Christians and Alawites. Efforts for resolution and accountability are being initiated by Syria’s interim leaders, amidst a backdrop of humanitarian crisis and uncertainty.
Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair of Latakia and Tartus expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Syria, stating, “No one knows the end” of the current situation. Since March 6, hundreds of civilians have been killed as security forces confront armed supporters of former President Bashar Assad, who fled to Moscow in December after an aggressive rebel offensive. This turmoil follows 13 years of civil war that resulted in over 600,000 deaths.
The recent conflict, characterized by what Archbishop Chbair termed “sectarian strife,” emerged in Latakia province, predominantly inhabited by Alawite Muslims, the same sect as Assad. Approximately 70% of Syria’s population comprises Sunni Muslims. Human rights organizations estimate at least 800 fatalities due to the violence, while the toll may be even higher. On March 9, UN human rights chief Volker Türk remarked on “extremely disturbing reports” of widespread killings, including entire families.
Reports from the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) noted that over three-quarters of the deceased were civilians, with claims of targeted attacks on Alawite communities through at least 30 “massacres” in Tartus and Latakia. The government attributed the violence to remnants of Assad’s military, asserting these were merely “individual actions.”
Archbishop Chbair reported that around 80 Christians were among those killed. The archdiocese has provided refuge for displaced Alawite and Christian families, with many seeking safety in churches. Sister Fadia Odisho in Tartus described the brutal killings, stating that fighters indiscriminately attacked people in various settings, causing an atmosphere of fear and paralysis across the region.
Melkite Greek Catholic Archbishop Georges Khawam illustrated the dire situation, expressing disbelief regarding the violence witnessed and urging recognition of the breakdown of order. He lamented that many residents have lost their livelihoods and noted a substantial outflow of individuals looking to escape the country.
In a March 10 interview, Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa vowed accountability for those responsible for the violence, asserting that Syria is a nation governed by law. He emphasized the commitment to protecting the oppressed and ensuring that injustice would not go unpunished. On the same day, al-Sharaa initiated a ceasefire agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, aiming to reduce hostilities and consolidate military efforts.
The situation in Syria remains precarious, with ongoing violence resulting in significant civilian casualties and heightened sectarian tensions. The responses from local church leaders underscore the humanitarian crisis as communities seek refuge amid chaos. Political attempts at resolution by the interim president highlight the complexities of achieving stability in a battered nation, with many citizens grappling with loss and insecurity. Amid these challenges, the urgent need for accountability and peace remains paramount.
Original Source: www.detroitcatholic.com
