Governments and religious organizations across the globe condemned Sunday’s suicide bombing at the Church of Mar Elias in Damascus, describing the attack, which killed 22 civilians and wounded 59, as a brutal assault on religious freedom, unity and civil peace. The bombing, which took place during Sunday Mass, was attributed to a suicide bomber linked to ISIS, according to the Syrian Interior Ministry.
International Community Condemns the Attack
Condemnation came swiftly from world capitals. The UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, called the bombing a “heinous crime,” and urged all parties to reject terrorism and safeguard civilians. The UK referred to the act as a “horrific attack” and reaffirmed its solidarity with Syria’s Christian community.
US Envoy to Syria Tom Barrak expressed condolences “on behalf of President Donald Trump and the American people,” emphasizing that such “cowardly acts” threaten the diverse fabric of Syrian society.
France, Germany and Belgium issued strong statements of solidarity, with French Foreign Ministry spokesman Christophe Lemoin reaffirming France’s commitment to a peaceful and pluralistic Syria. Turkey also condemned the bombing, labeling it a “treacherous attack” and pledging ongoing support to Syria in its fight against terrorism.
Regional Reactions Highlight Shared Loss
Neighboring states joined in denouncing the attack. Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam described it as a malicious attempt to fracture Syria’s social unity. Jordan’s Foreign Ministry emphasized full support for Syria’s security, while Bahrain called for greater protection of religious sites.
The Presidents of the Middle East Council of Churches issued a joint statement mourning the victims, who were killed while “gathered to pray.” The Council called on the Syrian government to protect those of all faiths and ensure freedom of worship.
Religious and Government Leaders Call for Accountability
Domestically, reactions emphasized both grief and resolve. Damascus Governor Maher Marwan said the attack was aimed at all Syrians and vowed restoration of the church. Minister of Foreign Affairs Asaad al-Shaibani condemned the bombing, saying it would not shake “the unity and will of our people.”
The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch described the bombing as a “horrific crime” and violation of church sanctity. Patriarch John X was reported to be in direct contact with officials and international clergy following the attack.
Abdulrahim Attoun, head of the Advisory Office for Religious Affairs, labeled the bombing a crime that violates religious, legal and societal principles. He called for severe penalties to deter future acts.
A Unified Stand Against Terrorism
Ministers across the Syrian government echoed similar messages, emphasizing unity and the need for justice. Minister of Justice Mazhar al-Wais pledged accountability for those responsible, while Minister of Social Affairs Hind Qabawat called the bombing “an attack on all Syrians.”
Despite the tragedy, Syrian officials and citizens alike vowed to remain united. “This crime,” Shaibani said, “will only strengthen our resolve to protect Syria’s unity and rebuild in the face of terrorism.”
