Suicide bombing at Orthodox Church in Damascus

A suicide attack targeted an Orthodox church in Damasus, Syria on 22 June, claiming 25 lives and leaving over 70 people injured.

Two terrorists armed with machine guns attacked Saint Elias Orthodox Church, located in Dwelaa, one of the poorest neighbourhoods in Damascus, at around 5pm on 22 June. Sources told CSW that one of the attackers fled the scene while the other entered the church, which was packed with worshippers, and detonated an explosive vest he was wearing.

According to a statement from Syria’s Ministry of Health, in addition to the fatalities, over 70 people were injured by the blast. A statement by the Ministry of Interior Affairs blamed Islamic State (IS) for the attack. Several government officials, including the mayor of Damascus and the head of the police force, rushed to the church and offered their condolences to the local priest and congregation.

Sources told CSW that the government immediately deployed police units around churches and Christian neighbourhoods in Damascus, and stepped-up security measures all over the country.

CSW’s CEO Scot Bower said: ‘We extend our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of this heinous attack, and wish the injured a swift and full recovery. We also commend the government’s response and urge President Al-Sharaa to deal swiftly and decisively with sectarian incitement, ensuring that all Syrian citizens receive protection from sectarian violence and equal treatment under the law. We also call on the international community to support the Syrian people at this critical time of transition. The Syrian government must be encouraged to speed up the transitional justice process and launch a national dialogue initiative to address sectarianism and divisions between different community groups without further delay.’