Syrian Christian Leaders Voice Concerns Amid Islamist Takeover and Curriculum Changes

Damascus, January 6, 2025: Syrian Christian leaders met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new Islamist interim leader of Syria to urge the protection of religious and ethnic minority rights after Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied Islamist groups seized power on December 8. While al-Sharaa promised to safeguard minority rights, concerns have mounted over potential marginalization, particularly following contentious curriculum changes and the appointment of foreign Islamist fighters to military leadership.

The meeting in Damascus on December 31, brought together Bishop Hanna Jallouf, the apostolic vicar of Aleppo, and senior Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican clerics, who called for unity and national reconciliation during Syria’s ongoing political transition. In a statement issued earlier on December 29, Christian patriarchs—including Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarch Youssef I Absi—emphasized the need for a democratic constitution ensuring equal rights for all Syrians, respect for diversity, and freedom of religion.

Despite assurances from al-Sharaa, Christians and other minorities fear the imposition of strict Islamic law. Tensions have intensified following the January 1 introduction of an Islamist-leaning school curriculum, which drew outrage for derogatory language targeting Christians and Jews. Critics have also condemned remarks by HTS spokesperson Obaida Arnaout, who claimed women are biologically incapable of leadership roles.

Christian communities in towns such as Hawash and Suqaylabiyah have staged protests, demanding the removal of foreign Islamist fighters and opposing recent acts of intimidation, including the burning of a Christmas tree. In Maaloula, a historic Christian town, residents have requested local Christian police forces to maintain order and protect their heritage from Islamist interference.

Bassam Said Ishak, president of the Syriac National Council of Syria, has called for inclusive governance to protect the security, economic rights, and religious freedoms of minorities. “People want to know their safety is ensured and their way of life preserved,” Ishak told OSV News.

International bodies, including the United States, Britain, and the European Union, have urged an inclusive political transition. Al-Sharaa has announced a National Dialogue Conference for January to chart Syria’s future, but doubts remain over whether the meeting will represent the country’s diverse communities.

As Syria continues to grapple with its new leadership, Christian leaders have called on their faithful to remain engaged in public life, playing a vital role in rebuilding the nation while advocating for an inclusive and secular state.

By Catholic Connect Reporter