Christians in Syria Concerned for Their Future
by Karen Faulkner, Worthy News Correspondent
(Worthy News) – Christians in Syria have reported they are worried for their futures as the country gets used to a new Islamic government following the ousting of dictator Bashar al-Assad on December 8 last year.
Prior to the recent ousting of Assad, war-torn Syria had ranked 18 on the Open Doors World Watch List of the top 50 countries where Christians are persecuted. Christians under Assad faced murder and abductions, as well as workplace discrimination and sexual violence.
When the insurgent Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham ousted Assad and set up a transitional new government, there was widespread joy and a sense of freedom among Syrians. However, Christians have expressed concerns about how the new government will act toward them.
“The war may be over, but now we are plunging into the unknown,” Christian school principal May Bitar told La Croix International. “I try to reassure my teachers and students—that’s my role—but inside, I’m terrified. Do you think I’ll have to wear a hijab or take off my cross?”
“They talk about citizenship and religious freedom,” Archbishop Joseph Tobji, the Maronite leader in Aleppo, told La Croix separately. “They assure us our lives won’t change—but we’re waiting to see their actions.”
A Christian source in Syria whose name is withheld for security purposes told Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN): “People avoid being on the streets after 5pm. There are jihadists on the streets, using megaphones to call on people to convert to Islam and telling women to veil.”
“Fear is really very pronounced – Christians cannot work, many stay home,” the Christian said.
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