On 27 November, a coalition of anti-Assad rebel groups launched a surprise attack and managed to take the northern city of Aleppo, the second largest city in Syria. They swept south very quickly and took the cities of Hama and Homs within a few days, causing Assad’s army to retreat. They reached Damascus on 8 December, forcing Assad to flee to Moscow.
The fall of the Assad regime marked the end of 54 years of tyranny. We continue to monitor the situation very closely, as the situation remains extremely volatile and uncertain, as pro-Assad armed elements continue to pose a threat.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/syria
Sunday 8 June
Give thanks for the ending to the rule of Bashar al-Assad. He oversaw decades of severe human rights violations and repression – including the torture and execution of thousands of political prisoners, and the use of chemical weapons against civilians. Pray that the international community would ensure that he and his supporters are brought to justice.
Monday 9 June
The Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham led the offensive that ousted Assad. Pray for them and the interim government today, that they would oversee a swift, peaceful and inclusive transition to lasting democracy in Syria.
Tuesday 10 June
Sectarian tensions remain high, particularly between the country’s Alawite and Sunni communities. Pray for a miracle of reconciliation; for protection for minorities, and for provision for everyone rebuilding their lives in this highly volatile context.
Wednesday 11 June
‘Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others.’ (Daniel 2:20-21a) Use this verse to affirm and celebrate the Lord’s divine authority over Syria today.
Thursday 12 June
The UN World Food Programme estimates that nearly 13 million people – over half the population – are currently facing food insecurity. The numbers have been rising since the government was overthrown. Please pray that the international community would recognise and respond to this need swiftly.
Friday 13 June
Pray today for the countless unaccompanied children – many of whom are likely to be orphans – who are currently living on the streets. Ask God to lead them to shelter and safety, and to reunite families wherever possible.
Saturday 14 June
Lord Jesus, we come to you with cautious optimism for the future of Syria. We commit the transitional period into your hands, and ask you to establish the plans of those committed to inclusivity who will bring peace, justice, democracy and reconciliation to the country. Amen.