Explosion at Damascus church during Sunday service results in death of at least 19 individuals
In the heart of Syria's capital on June 22, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded at the Mar Elias Church in the Dweilaa district. This church, a symbol of faith and unity, became a scene of terror as a suicide bomber stormed the packed premises during Sunday mass.
The bomber, a member of the Islamic State (IS) group, opened fire indiscriminately before detonating an explosive vest. The attack also involved a grenade lobbed inside the church. The carnage claimed at least 25 lives and left 63 individuals injured, according to the latest reports.
This heinous attack marked the first suicide bombing in Damascus since the change of regime in December 2024. Both IS and the Saraya Ansar al-Sunnah groups have claimed responsibility for the attack. The Syrian authorities have condemned the attack, labeling it a terrorist act designed to disrupt the nation and undermine its shared values.
The Syrian Foreign Ministry, expressing solidarity with the victims, urged the transitional authorities to guarantee the safety of all religious communities. Concerns among Christian minorities have escalated following the attack, fueled by reports of pressure to convert to Islam and the increasing security challenges in the country under the new Islamist government.
As the world watches, the aftermath of this horrific incident has left many questioning the future of religious harmony in Syria. The shattered remnants of the church stand as a grim testament to a tragic day, prompting calls for stronger measures to combat acts of terror and protect the diverse fabric of Syrian society.
The tragic incident at the Mar Elias Church has sparked intense debate in the realm of general news, as questions about the future of religious harmony in Syria arise. Meanwhile, politics and discussions about safety measures have been reignited among the Christian minority, given escalating concerns over pressure to convert and escalating security challenges under the Islamist government. In the wake of this terror attack, crime-and-justice issues are at the forefront, particularly the responsibility and accountability for the suicide bombing in Damascus.
