SYRIA: Suicide bombing at Saint Elias Greek Orthodox during the Sunday mass
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HRWF (24.06.2025) – At least 20 people were killed and 52 wounded in the suicide attack at the Church of Prophet Elias in the Duweila neighborhood of Damascus according to a latest toll, Syrian security services sources announced.
The attack left at least 15 people dead and over 20 injured, including women and children. Initial reports suggest that a suicide bomber entered the church during the service, opened fire on worshippers, and then detonated an explosive belt, causing massive destruction and panic. The explosion reportedly occurred during the reading of the Gospel, a moment described by eyewitnesses as horrifying and chaotic.
Syria’s Interior Ministry announced that the suicide bomber was a member of the Islamic State organization.
Russia’s Novosti agency reported that the blast destroyed parts of the sanctuary, leaving several victims unrecognizable. Security forces quickly sealed off the area and launched a criminal investigation.
Emergency medical teams responded immediately, transferring the wounded to nearby hospitals amid a declared state of emergency.
St. Elias Church holds deep significance for the Christian community in Damascus. Dedicated to the Prophet Elijah (Elias), it is not only a place of worship but also a hub for community gatherings and religious celebrations.
A field reporter from Al Arabiya described the church as “one of the enduring symbols of Christian presence in Damascus,” warning that such an attack was “a deliberate attempt to destabilize coexistence and ignite sectarian tension in the heart of Syria.”
The Orthodox Patriarchate of Damascus condemned the attack in the strongest terms, calling it “an unforgivable crime and a strike against the conscience of all humanity.” The Church urged prayers for the victims and pledged that it would remain “a beacon of hope amid the shadows of violence.”
A security services source stated that two men participated in the attack, including the suicide bomber.
The French government strongly condemned the attack on the church in Damascus in a Foreign Ministry statement and reiterated its commitment to a transition in Syria that “will allow Syrians of any faith to live in peace and security in a free, united, multicultural, prosperous, stable and sovereign Syria.”
The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning the suicide attack at the Damascus church:
“We unequivocally condemn the abhorrent terrorist suicide bombing attack at the Greek Orthodox church of Mar Elias in Damascus, Syria.
Religious sites must never be targets of terrorism. Everyone has the right to practice their faith in complete peace and security.
We call upon Syria’s transitional authorities to take immediate action to bring those responsible to justice and to implement measures that will guarantee the safety of Christian communities and all religious groups, allowing them to live without fear.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.
Foreign Minister Gerapetritis will inform his EU partners tomorrow at the Foreign Affairs Council.”
Photo Source: Eagle Eye X
