Christmas in Syria: Hope for unity after the fall of Assad!

Christmas in Syria: Hope for unity after the fall of Assad!

On December 25, 2024, Christians in Syria celebrated Christmas under special security precautions after long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad was overthrown by a rebel alliance on December 8. For many, the return of Christmas celebrations was a symbol of hope for a new era. "We hope that today is the day of redemption from the era of injustices committed by the Assad family," said Nicola Jazgi, who attended a Christmas mass in Damascus. A report from Small newspaper confirmed that numerous security forces were deployed to protect churches because of fears of acts of sabotage. These fears were recently heightened by the burning of a Christmas tree in Al-Suqaylabiyah, Hama, where one person was arrested in connection with the incident.

Security and national unity in focus

Given the tense situation in the country, the new leaders under de facto ruler Ahmed al-Sharaa said they will not tolerate armed groups operating outside state control. According to a report by Nachrichten.at All ethnic groups in Syria should be respected and their security guaranteed. The support of this new leadership gives people hope that they can live together peacefully in a pluralistic society. While Christians and Muslims in Damascus and other cities expressed solidarity against the attack on the Christmas tree, many said they felt a sense of relief despite the current uncertainties.

The Christian community expresses mixed feelings about the future, but some residents report positive changes. A Christian representative from Damascus noted that there had been no reprisals against minorities so far. Nevertheless, the fear of potential attacks remains present for many. “We have the right to be afraid,” said Father Andrew Bahi, emphasizing the ambivalent situation in which many Christians currently find themselves.