Archbishop Antoine Chbair emphasized that the future of violence in Syria is unknown, following recent clashes since March 6 that have resulted in hundreds of civilian deaths. He attributes ongoing issues to sectarian strife, particularly affecting Alawite and Christian communities. Human rights groups report high civilian casualties, and leaders express despair over the instability and socio-economic decline in Syria.
Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair of Latakia and Tartus stated that the future of violence in Syria remains uncertain, saying, “No one knows the end.” The ongoing clashes, which began on March 6, have led to the deaths of hundreds of civilians due to confrontations between security forces and armed supporters of former President Bashar Assad. Assad fled to Moscow following a rapid rebel offensive, concluding a civil war that claimed over 600,000 lives.
The violence has been described by Archbishop Chbair as a manifestation of “sectarian strife,” primarily affecting Latakia province, home to Alawite Muslims, while 70% of the Syrian population is Sunni Muslims. Human rights groups estimate at least 800 fatalities during this unrest, with reports suggesting the numbers could be higher. The UN’s Volker Türk described the situation as “extremely disturbing,” highlighting instances of mass killings without distinction.
Reports indicate that more than three-quarters of those killed were civilians, as per the Beirut office of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA). This organization, established by Pope Pius XI, provides humanitarian aid and support in various regions. CNEWA has documented about 30 “massacres” targeting Alawites in the Latakia and Tartus governorates on March 7 and 8, underscoring the severity of the conflict.
The CNEWA noted that the government attributed the violence to remnants of Assad’s military forces, claiming that many of their troops are non-Syrian. Archbishop Chbair reported that around 80 Christians died during these clashes, with the archeparchy enabling a parish to shelter Alawite and Christian civilians. CNEWA further reported on Alawite families seeking refuge in Christian homes and churches along the coast.
Sister Fadia Odisho described the violence, stating that innocent civilians were brutally attacked in public spaces, with indiscriminate killings of all demographic groups. “Several governorates stood with the persecuted people through demonstrations … but afterward they were attacked and shot,” she lamented.
Archbishop Georges Khawam echoed these sentiments, noting the significant number of fighters involved and the swift, deadly nature of their attacks. He criticized the government’s lack of authority in the situation, suggesting a culture of violence has taken over. He asserted there is little safety in the country, predicting an increase in chaos and insecurity.
The socioeconomic aftermath has been dire, with job losses and empty supermarkets contributing to unrest. Many citizens are desperate to flee the country. In a March 10 interview, interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa promised accountability for those inciting violence, affirming Syria’s commitment to the rule of law. He indicated a ceasefire signed with Kurdish-led forces as a step towards unifying the nation during this tumultuous period.
The ongoing violence in Syria presents a dire humanitarian crisis marked by high civilian casualties and deepening sectarian strife. As various factions clash, the socio-economic conditions worsen, pushing many to escape. Church leaders highlight the chaos and lack of safety, while the government vows accountability amidst pledges for ceasefires. The future remains uncertain, with no clear resolution in sight for this long-standing conflict.
Original Source: www.osvnews.com
