According to a statement from Syria’s Interior Ministry, preliminary investigations suggest the assailant was affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS), a group that has carried out numerous deadly attacks in Syria over the past decade. The ministry added that the bomber gained entry to the church by blending in with worshippers before triggering the explosion, causing mass casualties and widespread destruction within the building.
Witnesses described scenes of horror and chaos, with families frantically searching for loved ones and emergency responders working tirelessly to evacuate survivors and recover bodies from the rubble. Local officials say the death toll may rise, as some of the injured are in critical condition.
Religious leaders have called for prayers and unity in the wake of the attack, urging citizens not to give in to fear or allow sectarian violence to take root. “This is not just an attack on Christians,” one priest said, “it is an attack on humanity and peace.”
The Syrian government has vowed to pursue those responsible, promising swift justice for the victims. Meanwhile, international observers warn that the attack highlights the persistent threat of extremist violence in the region despite years of military efforts to dismantle ISIS networks.
As the grieving community prepares for mass burials, global solidarity is pouring in, with leaders around the world condemning the act and calling for renewed efforts toward peace and religious tolerance.