On Sunday, June 22, a suicide bomber attacked the Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church in the Dweil’a area on the outskirts of Damascus, Syria, during a crowded service, allegedly killing at least 22 people and injuring 63 others, including children.
The assailant, allegedly linked to the Islamic State (IS), opened fire on worshippers before detonating an explosive vest inside the church. Security forces and emergency teams rushed to the scene, while international and local officials strongly condemned the attack.
This marks one of the deadliest assaults on a place of worship in Syria in recent years, raising urgent concerns about security and sectarian tensions.
Church Service Turned Nightmare
Witnesses described scenes of horror as the attacker, his face covered, entered the church during a mass and began firing at the congregation. As worshippers allegedly attempted to stop him, he detonated his explosive vest at the entrance, causing devastation.
Eyewitness accounts and images shared by the Syrian Civil Defence (White Helmets) showed a severely damaged altar, bloodied pews, shattered glass, and charred debris throughout the church. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to evacuate the injured, with at least 22 confirmed dead and 63 wounded, some of them children.
Syrian state media and officials confirmed that the attack was carried out by a suicide bomber linked to the Islamic State, though the group has not yet claimed responsibility. The Ministry of Interior described the incident as a “terrorist attack,” and the Syrian Information Minister Hamza Mostafa condemned the act as “cowardly” and against Syria’s civic values.
Rising Sectarian Tensions and Security Concerns
This attack is the first large-scale bombing of a church in Damascus since the overthrow of former president Bashar al-Assad by rebel factions in December. It comes amid ongoing sectarian tensions and efforts by Syria’s new leadership to reassure minority communities of their safety. Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation, while security forces have increased patrols around other religious sites.
International condemnation was swift. The United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, Geir O. Pedersen, expressed outrage and called for unity against terrorism and extremism. The United States, Turkey, Greece, and several other nations also issued statements denouncing the attack and offering condolences to the victims’ families.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian stands in solidarity with the victims and their families, condemning all forms of violence against places of worship and innocent civilians. Attacks like these strike at the heart of peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony. We call for unity, empathy, and dialogue among all communities to counter hatred and extremism.
