Archbishop Antoine Chbair warns that “No one knows the end” of violence in Syria, which has intensified since March 6, claiming at least 800 lives. Key figures report indiscriminate killings with a significant number of civilian fatalities, while interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa pledges accountability and signs ceasefire agreements to address the conflict.
Archbishop Antoine Chbair of Latakia and Tartus expressed concern over the rampant violence in Syria, stating that “No one knows the end” of the ongoing conflict. Since March 6, hundreds of civilians have lost their lives amidst clashes between security forces and armed groups supporting former President Bashar Assad, who has been absent from the country since December due to a rebellion against his regime.
The violence, which primarily occurred in Latakia province—home to the Alawite minority—has resulted in at least 800 fatalities, predominantly civilians, as reported by human rights organizations. The United Nations human rights chief, Volker Türk, highlighted alarming reports of entire families being killed and summary executions occurring on a sectarian basis.
The Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) noted that the government attributed the violence to remnants of Assad’s military, categorizing these incidents as “individual actions.” Archbishop Chbair revealed that approximately 80 Christians were among those killed, prompting safety measures such as opening a parish for individuals seeking refuge from military factions.
Vulnerable communities, including Alawite families, have been forced to seek shelter in Christian households and churches. Sister Fadia Odisho of Tartus reported that the violence was indiscriminate, affecting innocent individuals irrespective of age or gender. Various demonstrations in support of persecuted individuals have been met with further violence.
Melkite Greek Catholic Archbishop Georges Khawam described the profound fear among the populace and condemned the brutality they face daily. He stated that the culture of violence is overpowering any semblance of peace, leading to a dire situation where citizens have lost jobs and basic resources.
In a bid for stability, Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa affirmed that those responsible for violence would be held accountable and signed a ceasefire agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces to quell one front of conflict while working towards national unity.
The ongoing violence in Syria, characterized by extreme brutality and civilian casualties, raises concerns of a deteriorating humanitarian situation and sectarian conflict. With multiple reports of atrocities and governmental failures, the situation remains precarious. Recent moves by transitional leadership aim for accountability while attempts to unify conflicting factions signal a desire for resolution amidst chaos and insecurity.
Original Source: www.detroitcatholic.com
