Fighting Christians in Maalula: Who protects the last bastion?

Fighting Christians in Maalula: Who protects the last bastion?

Maalula, Syrien - in the picturesque town of Maalula, Syria, where the language Aramaic - the language of Jesus - is still spoken today, there is fear among the citizens. The region, which is known for its Christian roots and historical sites, has been shaken by conflicts for years. According to Today. The Islamist HTS militias, which according to local priests and residents are a constant threat are contenders to rule. "The same people who attacked us eleven years ago are now the gentlemen about our lives," said Fadi Barki priest. The constant fear and the recent attacks by armed groups prepare sleepless nights.

The history of Maalula is just as dark as it is fascinating. In 2013, the Islamic State occupied the village and left a trace of destruction, while the Syrian army returned in 2014 and took control. But peace was short -lived. In September 2024, there were severe battles when Jihadist fighters took over several parts of the city, as can be seen from an examination of the wikipedia . Before the battles broke out, a truck occupied with a Jordanian suicide bomber exploded, which triggered a massive attack on the government positions. According to reports, several soldiers lost their lives, while the jihadists temporarily took control of strategically important points.

The devastating consequences

The continuing fights have drastically changed the life of many residents of Maalula. Witnesses report attacks on Christian households and attacks on churches. Some citizens had to leave their home due to the threats from the militant fighters. Control over Maalula was already in constant ups and downs between the military and the jihadist forces. Even today, the future remains uncertain for the approximately 1,000 remaining residents who long for security and normality.

Despite the difficult situation, the hope remains that an end to the conflicts will make tourists' return to this historically significant city, which was a popular destination for travelers from all over the world before the civil war. The local shopkeeper FASIH expresses hope that the new government can bring a change and remembers the better times when Maalula was visited every day by bus loads full of tourists.