Open Doors refutes claims of a ‘Christian genocide’ in Syria, citing misleading reports. Most casualties are from the Alawite community, and only a few Christians were affected. The spread of misinformation raises concerns for Christians’ safety and may lead to further emigration from the country.
Recent claims of a mass slaughter of Christians in Syria have been labeled as misleading by Open Doors, a Christian NGO. Matthew Barnes, their communications officer for the Middle East, indicated there is no substantial evidence to support the idea of a targeted attack on Christians in the current violence that erupted since March 6, despite reports of over 1,000 fatalities in Latakia and Tartus. He clarified that the majority of casualties were from the Alawite Shiite community, loyal to former President Bashar al-Assad.
Barnes reported that only four Christian men were casualties during the violence, noting that none were killed specifically for their faith. This contradicted narratives suggesting a widespread attack on Christians, as Barnes remarked, “This certainly does not equate to a ‘slaughter of Christians.” This misrepresentation has ignited anger on social media, with users expressing frustration over perceived government and media negligence in addressing these fabricated claims of a Christian genocide.
The sentiment of fear surrounding the situation is palpable among Christians in Syria, as the spread of such misinformation could have severe repercussions. Barnes stressed that reports, whether in the news or on social media, are closely monitored by governments and militant groups, creating a climate of fear for Christians. He recalls a recent incident where a Christian bishop was questioned by the Syrian government due to an NGO’s lawsuit against the president, highlighting the risks that arise from these rumors.
Although only a few Christians were reportedly harmed, Barnes voiced concern about the psychological impact of such violence. He indicated that if the situation escalates, it could lead to a substantial outflow of Christians from Syria, similar to the hundreds of thousands who have already fled in recent years. Christians are increasingly anxious about being caught in the crossfire of ongoing hostilities, leading some to contemplate leaving the country altogether.
The situation surrounding alleged violence against Christians in Syria has been mischaracterized, according to Open Doors. Despite widespread claims of a Christian genocide, evidence suggests that most casualties are from the Alawite community, not Christians. This misinformation is provoking fear among Christians in Syria, with a potential risk of increased emigration if violence persists, echoing the significant exodus seen in recent years.
Original Source: evangelicalfocus.com
