Archbishop Antoine Chbair has expressed uncertainty about the end of violence in Syria following deadly clashes since March 6, leading to significant civilian casualties amid sectarian strife. Reports indicate numerous fatalities, and church leaders emphasize the need for safety and accountability as the country faces escalating chaos. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has pledged to hold those responsible for the violence accountable while pursuing a ceasefire with opposing forces.
Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair of Latakia and Tartus has stated, “No one knows the end” of the ongoing violence in Syria. Since March 6, numerous civilians have lost their lives due to clashes between security forces and armed supporters of former President Bashar Assad, who escaped to Moscow after his regime collapsed amid a 13-year civil war that claimed over 600,000 lives.
Syria is currently facing significant “sectarian strife,” as reported by Archbishop Chbair. The violence erupted in Latakia province, primarily inhabited by Alawite Muslims, the same sect as Assad and his regime, while roughly 70% of the population consists of Sunni Muslims. Human rights organizations have cited at least 800 fatalities, although actual numbers may be higher.
United Nations human rights chief Volker Türk reported “extremely disturbing” accounts of entire families, including women and children, being killed. He mentioned as well that there were incidents of summary executions based on sectarian affiliations, perpetrated by unidentified attackers and members of the security forces associated with the former government.
According to the Beirut office of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), over three quarters of those killed in the recent violence were civilians. Established in 1926, CNEWA aims to provide humanitarian assistance and spiritual support through Eastern churches in the region and beyond, including healthcare and education initiatives.
CNEWA documented targeted attacks against Alawites in approximately 30 massacres in Tartus and Latakia during early March. They reported government forces, comprised of many non-Syrians, were responding to remnants of Assad’s military while attributing the chaos to “individual actions.”
Archbishop Chbair confirmed that around 80 Christians were among the fatalities, and mentioned the archiepiscopal parish in Banias had opened its doors to provide refuge for both Alawites and Christians. Alawite families have also sought shelter in Christian homes and churches along the coast.
Sister Fadia Odisho, speaking from Tartus, described the grave situation where fighters indiscriminately killed civilians, including children and the elderly. Demonstrators supporting the oppressed faced violent reprisals, leading to closures of businesses and markets as residents remained in fear inside their homes.
Archbishop Georges Khawam reported a significant presence of fighters, with deadly attacks occurring rapidly and viciously in the streets. He emphasized the government’s failure to maintain order, stating that “the culture of killing wins over the culture of peace.”
Archbishop Khawam expressed grave concern for the nation’s future, stating there is “no safety” and said that people are attempting to flee Syria due to rising tensions and economic despair. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has vowed accountability for violence, asserting that Syria will uphold the rule of law. On March 10, he signed a ceasefire with Kurdish-led forces to mitigate hostilities and consolidate military efforts within Syria.
In light of the ongoing violence in Syria, significant losses have been observed among civilians, with alarming reports of sectarian-based attacks. Various church leaders, including Archbishops Chbair and Khawam, have expressed deep concern for the deteriorating safety and humanitarian crisis facing the country. As calls for accountability arise, the overarching sentiment remains that Syria is descending into chaos, prompting many citizens to seek refuge elsewhere.
Original Source: www.detroitcatholic.com
