The European Syriac Union (ESU) forcefully condemns, with deep sorrow and indignation, the horrific terrorist attack that occurred today at Mar Elias Church in Dweileh, a predominantly Christian district of Damascus.
According to initial reports, the assailant opened fire with an automatic weapon on worshippers inside the church before detonating an explosive device, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries.
This barbaric act deliberately targeted innocent civilians peacefully practicing their faith. It is not only an assault on a religious community but a flagrant violation of human dignity and an attack on the collective conscience of humanity. Such an atrocity constitutes a grave offense against religious freedom, societal harmony, and fundamental human rights.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, pray for the souls of the departed, and wish the wounded a swift and full recovery. We stand in solidarity with all those affected and offer strength and comfort to our people in this time of profound grief.
These acts of terror are designed not only to kill but to instill fear, displace Christian communities from their ancestral homeland, and erase their presence from Syria’s social fabric. The only effective response to this calculated campaign of violence aimed at silencing Christians and destroying religious pluralism is unity, resilience, and determined self-defense.
It is therefore a historic imperative for all Christian communities in Syria—especially the Syriacs—to rise above ethnic and denominational divisions and act collectively to safeguard their identity, lives, and sacred heritage. Only through unity can we build a robust front against the forces of hatred and destruction.
The European Syriac Union categorically rejects all forms of terrorism, extremism, and religious hatred, regardless of their origin or motivation. We call for the full exposure and prosecution of the ideologies, networks, and enablers behind such attacks.
We urgently appeal to the international community to uphold the rights of the Syriac people to live with dignity, security, and freedom in their homeland. This includes recognizing their right to political representation and local self-administration. Such recognition is essential not only for the survival of the Syriacs but also for the future of a pluralistic, stable, and peaceful Syria.
