Christians in Damascus Face Uncertainty Amidst Islamist Takeover

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The recent power shift in Syria has left the Christian community in Damascus grappling with fear and uncertainty. Islamist militants from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) have overthrown the regime of long-time dictator Bashar al-Assad, raising concerns among the city’s Christian minority about their future.

With Christmas approaching, the atmosphere in Damascus is complex. While some residents celebrate the fall of Assad, Christians express skepticism about the Islamist regime's intentions. Father Siraj Dib, a Maronite priest, remains cautiously optimistic, citing a meeting between church leaders and the new authorities, where assurances of religious freedom were made. However, historical context raises doubts, as HTS has ties to extremist factions known for past violence against religious minorities.

In a worrying display of intolerance, a video recently surfaced showing masked men burning a Christmas tree near Hama, prompting hundreds of Christians to protest for their rights across Syria. HTS has claimed responsibility for repairing the tree and stated that the perpetrators, allegedly affiliated with the Islamist group Ansar al-Tawhid, have been arrested.

Many Christians share a deep-seated fear for their safety. Roger, a 33-year-old Catholic from Mezzeh, expresses his belief that the Islamists' façade of tolerance is misleading and warns that they might restrict freedoms once international scrutiny wanes. He recalls a personal encounter with HTS fighters attempting to storm his home.

While some, like Olga Muti, a young Orthodox Christian, are hopeful that life in Syria can improve post-Assad, others remain anxious. She acknowledges a mixed society in Damascus but shares the apprehension felt by many Christians about their survival in a changing political landscape.

As the new regime asserts its authority, the future for Christians in Damascus remains uncertain, with many hoping for genuine tolerance but fearing a return to past persecution.

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