Source: Newsweek; Syrian Observatory for Human Rights; The Voice of the Martyrs USA
Written by: Voice of the Martyrs AU
Syrian Christians’ lives have been severely disrupted by the civil war that began in 2011. Caught in the crossfire of this brutal conflict between differing Muslim factions, Believers have been abused and attacked from all sides. More than 750 000 Christians have been driven from the country.
On 6 March 2025, clashes erupted between government forces and Islamist factions. Since then, more than 1 000 people—including Christian minorities and Alawites (the sect to which former President al-Assad belongs)—have been killed, according to sources and local reports.
Clashes have broken out in Latakia and Baniyas, among other areas, with sources noting that electricity and drinking water were cut off in nearby areas.
According to reports, as of Saturday 8 March, there have been 745 civilian deaths, along with 125 government security forces and 148 pro-Assad militants killed.
Residents told sources that thousands of people, including Christians and Alawites, have fled the areas to nearby mountains for safety.
Since the ousting of President al-Assad in December, reports of revenge killings have emerged. Local reports have also highlighted targeted killings of Christians, who have a significant community in Latakia.
The patriarchs of Syria’s three main Christian churches (Greek Orthodox, Syriac Orthodox and Melkite Greek Catholic), issued a joint statement on Saturday condemning the violence and “massacres targeting innocent civilians”. The religious leaders called for “an immediate end to these horrific acts, which stand in stark opposition to all human and moral values”.
In response to the clashes, the Syrian state media has reported that security forces have been deployed to Latakia and the surrounding region in an effort to regain control of the area.
Pray for the safety of Christians and other people who have been displaced. Pray for the families of those who have been murdered.
Pray for peace and religious freedom in Syria.
Pray for many people to turn to Christ during these difficulties. Pray for the people in government to see their need for a Saviour.
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