Syrian Christian Leader Blames Government for Damascus Church Bombing

A devastating attack shook a historic Syrian church this week—25 worshippers were killed in a deadly blast. At the funeral, the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch, John X Yazigi, issued a strong rebuke of President Ahmed al‑Sharaa’s government, holding them accountable for failing to protect Syria’s minority Christians.

The Damascus bombing and subsequent outcry from Patriarch Yazigi spotlight the urgent need for accountability and protective measures for Christian communities in Syria.

Key Developments

1. Deadly Suicide Bombing at Mar Elias Church

On Sunday a suicide bomber detonated inside the Mar Elias Church in Damascus’s Dweila district, resulting in at least 25 deaths and over 60 injuries. Health and security sources confirmed it was the first such attack in the capital since the Islamist-led government took power last December

2. Syrian Christian Leader Patriarch Yazigi’s Condemnation

At the funeral service, Patriarch John X passionately stated that condolences alone are “not enough”—the government must take responsibility and act to ensure Christian safety . He emphasized that symbolic gestures aren’t sufficient and that real protection is urgently needed.

3. Government Response & Minority Concerns

Although the government blamed the Islamic State, and security forces reported killing two suspects, the attack has intensified fears among Christians, a community that has dwindled significantly from pre-war levels—once 10% of the population, now just a few hundred thousand. The absence of explicit public assurance for Christian protection in official statements has only deepened anxiety.

This tragic event highlights a precarious moment for Christian minorities in Syria. Decades of conflict have not only shrunk their population but have also exposed them to renewed risks. Syrian Christian Leader Patriarch Yazigi’s public criticism marks a rare and bold moment of clerical dissent—signaling that faith leaders are willing to speak out when security failures occur. As Syrians prepare for potential political transitions, including their next parliamentary elections, trust in the government’s ability to protect all citizens remains fragile .

The Damascus bombing and subsequent outcry from Patriarch Yazigi spotlight the urgent need for accountability and protective measures for Christian communities in Syria. As peace efforts continue, this incident underscores how religious freedom and safety are still under threat—requiring tangible reforms and reassurance to faith minorities.

Reference:

Reuters News

Rudaw News