Rabbi Yusuf Hamra and his son Henry returned to Damascus after thirty years, participating in a homecoming organized by the Syrian Emergency Task Force. They experienced warm reunions with former neighbors and visited historic synagogues. Hope for rebuilding the Jewish community in Syria contrasts with concerns over the living conditions, as many express reluctance to permanently return amid ongoing struggles.
Rabbi Yusuf Hamra and his son Henry visited Damascus this week for the first time in over thirty years after emigrating to the U.S. They were welcomed by former neighbors, causing joyful reunions and exchanges of local news. They participated in the homecoming organized by the Syrian Emergency Task Force, following the fall of Bashar Assad’s regime, bringing hope for the possibility of rebuilding the Jewish community that has virtually disappeared over decades.
During their visit, father and son prayed in the historic but neglected al-Franj synagogue, where Yusuf once served. They also assessed the damage to the Jobar synagogue, which suffered destruction during Syria’s prolonged civil war. Henry remarked, “I left from Syria, but Syria never left us,” highlighting the enduring connection to their homeland despite the passage of time.
Historically, Jewish emigration from Syria began in the early 20th century, intensifying in 1948 amidst worsening tensions. The Jewish community dwindled significantly under the Assad regime, facing suspicion and travel restrictions. Following the lifting of these restrictions in 1992, most of the remaining Jews, including the Hamras, left for better opportunities abroad.
Plans for rebuilding Syria post-conflict are underway, with Mouaz Moustafa of the Syrian Emergency Task Force expressing hope that the Jewish delegation’s visit will encourage more Syrian Jews to return. He indicated that their presence could influence U.S. sanctions and change perceptions of the new government’s commitments to inclusivity and minority protections.
While the return was met with positivity in Damascus, some speculate about the political implications, questioning if it signals normalization with Israel. Moustafa clarified that the visit solely focuses on Syria’s future, not its relations with other nations.
Despite the emotional homecoming, the Hamras are hesitant about permanently returning due to the current dire living conditions in Damascus, including lack of basic utilities. Henry noted the stark contrast to their life in New York, making a move back challenging.
The visit of the Hamra family symbolizes hope for the rebuilding of the Syrian Jewish community after decades of exile. Their emotional journey back to Syria reflects the complexities of returning home amidst ongoing challenges. While there is optimism for reconstruction and future inclusivity in Syria, the practicalities of living conditions present significant barriers to a permanent return for those who wish to reconnect with their roots.
Original Source: apnews.com
