The assault has heightened fears in regards to the re-emergence of extremist sleeper cells, particularly as President Ahmad al-Sharaa continues to face challenges in asserting full management over the nation.
At the very least 13 folks had been killed contained in the Mar Elias Church in Dweil’a on the outskirts of Damascus, Syria after a suicide bomber detonated himself throughout Sunday prayers. A number of others had been injured, based on Syrian state media (SANA). The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based struggle monitor, reported as much as 30 casualties, although it didn’t verify precise figures. Native media sources prompt that youngsters could also be among the many victims.
That is the primary such suicide bombing in Syria in years and comes at a time when the capital is underneath the de facto rule of Islamist factions. The assault has heightened fears in regards to the re-emergence of extremist sleeper cells, particularly as President Ahmad al-Sharaa continues to face challenges in asserting full management over the nation.
ISIS suspected, witnesses describe horror
No group has claimed accountability but, however Syria’s Inside Ministry said that an Islamic State (ISIS) militant opened fireplace on worshippers earlier than detonating an explosives vest contained in the church.
Witnesses corroborated this, with one bystander named Rawad telling the Related Press he noticed the attacker, who was accompanied by two others who fled the scene. “He was capturing on the church … he then went contained in the church and blew himself up,” Rawad stated.
Authorities response and condemnation
Data Minister Hamza Almustafa strongly condemned the assault, labeling it a “cowardly terrorist act.” In a submit on social media platform X, he emphasised Syria’s dedication to equal citizenship and vowed that the state would proceed its efforts to battle extremist teams and safeguard its folks.
Scene of devastation and mourning
Photographs from state media confirmed bloodied church pews and particles scattered throughout the ground. Emergency responders and safety personnel rushed to the positioning as survivors cried in anguish. One distraught lady was seen collapsing in tears contained in the ruined church.
This incident marks a chilling reminder of Syria’s long-standing vulnerability to extremist violence, regardless of current durations of relative calm.