Deadly Suicide Bombing at Damascus Church Claims 22 Lives, Authorities Report

A suicide bombing on Sunday at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Prophet Elias in Damascus resulted in the deaths of at least 22 individuals and injured 63 others, marking a significant security setback in a city emerging from years of civil war.

In a tragic turn of events on Sunday evening, a suicide bomber claimed the lives of at least 22 people and injured 63 more at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Prophet Elias located in the Dweila neighbourhood of Damascus, according to Syria's health ministry. Eyewitnesses reported that the attacker began shooting during the church service before detonating an explosive vest, with the interior ministry identifying the perpetrator as being linked to the Islamic State (IS) group.

Graphic images emerging from the aftermath showcase significant destruction within the church: the altar heavily damaged, pews scattered with broken glass, and blood splattered across the premises. Witness Lawrence Maamari recounted the chaotic moments prior to the explosion, noting that congregants attempted to subdue the assailant before he could detonate the bomb. A nearby shopkeeper, Ziad, reported hearing gunfire followed by a deafening explosion that sent debris flying into the street.

This incident marks a significant increase in violence in the capital since Islamists ousted Bashar al-Assad in December, ending a prolonged civil conflict in Syria. The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing the event as a "treacherous hand of evil" striking down innocents during divine liturgy. The church called on Syria's transitional government to take decisive action to safeguard places of worship and ensure public safety for all citizens.

Interior Minister Anas Khattab branded the attack a "reprehensible crime" and noted that specialized investigation teams were launched immediately. He asserted that such acts of terror would not inhibit the Syrian state's commitment to civil peace.

International reaction was swift. The United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, condemned the atrocity and called for national unity against extremism. U.S. Special Envoy Tom Barrack echoed this sentiment, highlighting the necessity for integrated tolerance as Syria navigates its post-war reconstruction.

Recent events have underscored the precarious nature of security in Syria, particularly for religious minorities, as IS remains a persistent threat. The group, previously driven from significant territories, still holds considerable influence, with an estimated 1,500 to 3,000 fighters active in Syria and Iraq. Reports continue to warn of potential escalations in violence, as the group may capitalize on ongoing societal transitions to expand its operations, including the recruitment of foreign fighters.