Syria Church Blast Sparks Alarm for Christians Across the Middle East

Safi: Arab awareness key to minority protection

By Serena al-Haddad (originally in Arabic) | English version prepared by Akhbar al-Yawm

A suicide bombing at a church in Damascus has reignited fears over the safety of religious minorities in Syria, particularly Christians, amid growing regional anxieties over religious pluralism.

The attack targeted St. Elias Church in the Dweila neighborhood of the Syrian capital, an area known for its predominantly Christian population. Several fatalities were reported after the assailant detonated an explosive device inside the church, an act that threatens to unravel delicate community balances in post-conflict Syria.

Adding to the unease, a separate video circulated on social media showed threatening graffiti on the walls of another church, St. Elijah in Kfarbou, Hama provincem reading: "Your turn is coming".

This is the first major assault on a place of worship since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad on December 8. The incident raises urgent questions about the future of religious diversity in Syria and the broader Middle East.

Political analyst and university professor Hani Safi described the attack as a "dangerous signal", but pointed to the firm response by Syria’s new leadership as a key factor in preventing a deeper descent into sectarian violence.

"The centralized leadership under President Ahmad al-Sharaa has been crucial in reasserting state control and limiting the movements of extremist groups", Safi told the "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency. "Equally important is the president’s public commitment to protecting all communities, which has reassured many, especially Christians".

Safi added that regional dynamics are also shifting in a positive direction. "We’re seeing more inclusive policies in Gulf countries, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as well as renewed religious freedoms in Egypt, including the restoration of several churches", he said.

Yet while improvements are welcome, Safi warned that long-term stability hinges on full political inclusion for Christians and other minorities. "The Arab Christian should not be treated as a guest in their own country", he said. "They must be able to participate in public life on equal footing, as first-class citizens".

On the international level, Safi stressed the importance of global oversight. "We need active engagement from international and non-governmental organizations that can respond swiftly to violations and monitor the Syrian government’s pledges regarding minority rights and participation".

Asked whether the United States should play a leading role in safeguarding Christians in the region, Safi replied: "The U.S. doesn’t have to be the sole guardian, but given its influence, it certainly has a responsibility. Still, true protection comes from integration, not isolation".

Safi concluded with a broader reflection on societal change across the Arab world: "Wherever there is openness, awareness, and inclusive governance, we see religious tolerance thrive. The experience of the UAE shows that modernization and diversity can go hand in hand, this is the most sustainable guarantee for the future of Christians in the region".