Syria’s Christians commemorate ten years since the Islamic State’s attack along the Khabur River, which devastated local communities. Under new leadership from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, concerns regarding safety and rights have increased. Despite the challenges, some Christians remain committed to their homeland, emphasizing their deep-rooted connections to the land and community.
In northeast Syria, the Christian community observes the 10th anniversary of a brutal Islamic State (IS) assault that affected over 30 villages along the Khabur River. The attack, which occurred on February 23, 2015, resulted in numerous casualties, significant kidnappings, and led thousands to flee their homes. Amidst this solemn remembrance, Christians express heightened concerns for their future, particularly following the removal of President Bashar Assad.
The new political landscape sees the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) taking control, prompting Christians to worry about their rights and safety in the region. HTS, while formerly affiliated with al-Qaida and opposing IS, has faced skepticism from the Christian community regarding religious freedoms. Reports indicate isolated incidents of violence against Christians in the wake of Assad’s fall, increasing apprehensions about their communal wellbeing.
Leading the Syriac Orthodox Church in the northeast, Archbishop Maurice Amsih calls for collaboration across Syrian factions to uphold civil rights for all citizens. He emphasizes that Christians hope for a civil governance structure that respects their existence. Many in the community recall a time of coexistence and the shared history they have with their Muslim neighbors, underscoring their desire to maintain peace.
The demographic shift since the civil war began in 2011 is evident, with a significant decline in the Christian population due to ongoing violence. Before the conflict, Christians made up about 10% of Syria’s 23 million population. A significant exodus followed the rise of extremist factions, notably the IS, which has haunted the region’s history and led to devastating impacts on the Christian minority.
Elias Antar Elias recounts the emotional toll of leaving Tel Tal during the IS attack, illustrating the drastic changes to a village once thriving with 400 residents, now reduced to around 30. The memories of violence linger, exemplified by heart-wrenching images festering in the minds of survivors. However, many, including Elias, grapple with the bonds to their homeland that compel them to stay despite the chaos.
The village of Tel Nasri exemplifies the challenges Christians face today, with its churches damaged and its residents scattered. Despite the uncertainty, some Christians remain resolute in their decision to stay, finding a semblance of normalcy through faith and community, as demonstrated by Janet Chamoun, who refuses to abandon her roots despite the turbulence surrounding her.
The 10th anniversary of the Islamic State’s attack marks a somber reflection for Syria’s Christians who continue to face uncertainty in their homeland. With fears growing under new Islamist leadership, many express alarm over their civil rights and safety. Nevertheless, a resolve to remain in their ancestral lands persists among some community members, highlighting the deep ties they have to their heritage and faith.
Original Source: apnews.com
