The ongoing violence in Syria has led to hundreds of civilian casualties since March 6, according to Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair. He highlighted the sectarian strife and widespread fear among the population, with reports of massacres targeting various groups. The interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has pledged accountability for those responsible and aims for stability through ceasefires while the situation remains dire.
Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair of Latakia and Tartus expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Syria, stating, “No one knows the end” of these conflicts. Since March 6, hundreds of civilians have tragically lost their lives amid clashes between security forces and supporters of former President Bashar Assad, who has faced significant opposition after years of civil war that resulted in over 600,000 deaths.
Amid the upheaval, the Syrian state-run media reported that violence erupted in Latakia province, predominantly inhabited by Alawite Muslims. This sect is closely aligned with Assad’s regime, which has been deeply embroiled in sectarian strife, as approximately 70% of the population identifies as Sunni Muslims. Reports from various human rights organizations indicate that at least 800 individuals have been killed in recent clashes, but the actual figure may be considerably higher.
On March 9, Volker Türk, the United Nations human rights chief, highlighted alarming accounts of mass casualties, with entire families affected. He noted, “There are reports of summary executions on a sectarian basis by unidentified perpetrators,” further indicating the pervasive violence. According to the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), the majority of those killed were civilians, with the organization tracking a series of attacks targeting Alawites in their regions.
In light of the violence, Archbishop Chbair reported that approximately 80 Christians were among those killed. He mentioned that the archeparchy has opened facilities for displaced individuals seeking refuge from the ongoing military confrontations. Meanwhile, reports from CNEWA reveal that Alawite families are opting to hide in Christian homes or seek solace in churches to escape the violence.
Sister Fadia Odisho reported horrific accounts of violence, emphasizing that “fighters outrageously killed hundreds of innocent people” without discrimination. Demonstrations supporting the persecuted population have also met with violent reprisals. Many professionals are reportedly being targeted, and the atmosphere of fear has forced businesses to close and residents to remain indoors.
Archbishop Georges Khawam of Latakia and Tartus shared a bleak overview, describing a “significant” presence of fighters and swift violence in the streets. He lamented, “There is no safety” in Syria and warned of impending chaos as citizens wrestle with economic despair and freezing bank accounts, igniting widespread consideration to leave the country.
In an efforts to establish order, interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa vowed to hold those responsible for the violence accountable. He proclaimed to Reuters, “Syria is a state of law. The law will take its course on all.” He also signed a ceasefire agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces aimed at stabilizing some aspects of the ongoing conflict in Syria.
The escalating violence in Syria, as articulated by both Archbishop Antoine Chbair and other religious leaders, has led to significant civilian casualties and widespread fear among the populace. The conflict is marked by deep sectarian tensions and devastating humanitarian impacts. While authorities pledge accountability and seek ceasefires, the prospect for stability and peace remains uncertain, with many citizens contemplating emigration in search of safety and security.
Original Source: www.detroitcatholic.com
