Efforts to facilitate the return of the Christian communities to their ancestral homes in Syria’s Idlib province are gaining momentum, as local authorities, in cooperation with the Syrian Caretaker Government (SCG) and Christian clergy, initiate a comprehensive land handover process.
The initiative, aimed at restoring Christian-owned lands in the villages of Al-Quneyya, Al-Yaqoubiya, and Al-Jdida, has been met with cautious optimism among Syrians originally from these areas, many of whom previously lived under the deposed Assad regime. According to official documents obtained by Levant 24, landowners are now being urged to submit proof of ownership before the expiration of the three-week deadline to reclaim their properties.
“We, the clergy of the Franciscans in Idlib Province, inform the landowners in these villages that the land handover will proceed according to specific legal mechanisms,” read a statement signed by Father Louai Bisharat and Father Khourkaz Masroub. The statement outlines clear procedures for land reclamation, including submission of legal documents or notarized statements of ownership in cases where original deeds are unavailable.
A New Chapter
Today, a meeting was held in Idlib between representatives of the Department of Political Affairs in the Idlib governorate and notable figures from the Christian community to further facilitate the return of properties to the Christians. During the meeting, Fr. Bisharat from Yaqoubiya, expressed optimism about the progress made.
“We hope that this meeting will yield positive results, as our previous experiences have been constructive in addressing issues, proposing solutions, and dealing with the Christian file,” Fr. Bisharat stated.
He highlighted a pivotal meeting with Mr. Ahmad al-Sharaa, three years ago that paved the way for dialogue and cooperation. “Thankfully, after our meeting… we had a very positive discussion that opened a new chapter and addressed these difficulties. The return of properties has been gradual.”
He further noted that since the region’s liberation on December 8, approximately 150 families have returned to settle in their ancestral homes. “This is just the first drop in the bucket, and we hope for more positive outcomes following this meeting,” he added.
Father Bisharat emphasized that the assurance of security and the restoration of rights would be crucial in encouraging more families to return. “If security and rights restoration are ensured, people will certainly return to their homes and lands.”
A Coordinated Effort
Speaking to Levant 24, Muhammad Al-Azraq, Head of the Department of Political Affairs in Idlib Governorate, emphasized the collaborative nature of the effort.
“This matter involves coordination between the Department of Political Affairs and the Iktifa Institution,” Al-Azraq said. “The residents of these villages have been informed to submit applications, along with the necessary documents, to the Iktifa Institution for verification and legal registration of information.”
Al-Azraq explained that individuals may submit applications in person or through an authorized representative, supported by additional verification such as video evidence or witness testimonies. Specialized committees, representing both the Christian and Druze communities, have been established to facilitate communication and address any arising concerns.
“We have formed committees for the Druze and Christians. These committees communicate with us after submitting applications, allowing us to deal with a single representative for each group rather than multiple individuals,” Al-Azraq added.
Challenges & Safeguards
While the initiative signals progress in promoting the safe return of the Christians, the process includes stringent verification procedures. Applicants must not have any affiliations with the previous Assad regime or involvement in war crimes. The Christian and Druze committees, which oversee applications, ensure compliance with these criteria before approving any land transfers.
“If the individual is verified and has no violations, their land will be handed over according to proper procedures,” Al-Azraq noted.
Authorities have set up collection points in Al-Jdida village for submission of documents, while an office in Idlib City will handle additional inquiries and applications related to land administered by different authorities in the province.
Moving Forward
Despite the hurdles, the land restitution initiative marks a significant step toward restoring trust and stability in Christian communities, many of whom have expressed hopes of returning to their lands.
The clergy’s statement also mentioned upcoming plans to address land disputes in other areas, signaling broader efforts to rebuild and reintegrate affected populations.
As the land handover process unfolds, both local authorities and Christian leaders are working to ensure a smooth transition that respects property rights and fosters a sense of security for returning families.
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