Christians in Danger: Peace Concerns After Assad's Fall in Syria!

Christians in Danger: Peace Concerns After Assad's Fall in Syria!

In a world full of upheaval, Syria is at a crossroads: With the fall of the Assad regime, the global community is breathing a sigh of relief, but the country's Christian minority faces serious dangers. Under Assad, himself a representative of the Alawites, a religious minority, the approximately 10 percent Christians in Syria largely enjoyed protection from discriminatory attacks. However, now that the Islamist militia Haiat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is in control, there are growing concerns that the situation could worsen dramatically.

Editorial Network Germany (RND) reported that under the Assad regime, Christians were allowed to worship openly and celebrate holidays - a privilege that is in question in the current situation. The German Bishops' Conference and the Catholic relief organization Missio are in close contact with local churches on site, but there is a worrying uncertainty. Although the rebels have pledged to protect minorities, skeptics are watching closely to see whether those promises will be kept.

Rebel promises put to the test

Pastor Dirk Bingener from Missio said that so far there have been no attacks on Christians in Syria. Nevertheless, the situation remains fragile due to the dominance of the HTS. Political scientist Bente Scheller emphasized that the announced protection of minorities by the Islamist militia alone is not enough. Minorities must also be given political rights and participation. Only time will tell whether this can actually be achieved.

Growing threat of change of power

The political climate in Syria could now lead to further negative developments. French Middle East expert Pierre-Jean Luizard warns that minorities could become targets of radical groups amid these power shifts. History shows that times of political change often bring increased risk for oppressed groups. Luizard emphasizes that tensions are enormous not only between different religious groups, but also within the Muslim community.

The international community is called upon to keep a watchful eye on Syria and to ensure the protection of the fundamental rights of all religious communities. The Catholic aid organization “Church in Need” is calling on the new rulers in Syria to ensure religious freedom, as the current instability could endanger it. Christians, who have been facing a gradual exodus for years, now face an uncertain future.

The possibility of a complete annihilation of the Christian community in Syria is real. This, according to Luizard, is a serious threat that requires attention and immediate action. According to another source from MSN Luizard highlights the risk to Christian communities as part of a growing field of hatred between Sunnis and Shiites. A historical break is looming, the outcome of which is uncertain.