Archbishop Comments on Escalating Violence in Syria, Urges Accountability

Archbishop Antoine Chbair warns of ongoing violence in Syria, with numerous civilian casualties amidst sectarian strife. Reports indicate over 800 deaths, primarily among civilians, along with alarming accounts of summary executions. CNEWA highlights humanitarian efforts to assist displaced families. President Ahmed al-Sharaa has vowed accountability for violence as a ceasefire has been signed with militia forces, aiming to restore stability.

Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair of Latakia and Tartus expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Syria, stating that “No one knows the end” of this deadly conflict. Following clashes that erupted on March 6 between security forces and supporters of former President Bashar Assad, hundreds of civilians have already lost their lives. Assad, who fled to Moscow after his regime fell, left behind a nation plagued by sectarian violence and turmoil.

Reports indicate that violence predominantly affected Latakia province, home to Alawite Muslims, while approximately 70% of the Syrian population identifies as Sunni Muslim. Various human rights organizations have reported at least 800 fatalities from these clashes. United Nations human rights chief Volker Türk mentioned receiving shocking reports of entire families, including women and children, being brutally killed, with allegations of summary executions occurring on a sectarian basis by security forces.

Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), founded by Pope Pius XI, reported that more than three-quarters of those killed were civilians. The organization provides humanitarian and spiritual support in the Middle East and is working to aid displaced families, ensure healthcare, and assist marginalized individuals. They noted that around 30 “massacres” targeting Alawites occurred in Tartus and Latakia within just two days.

Archbishop Chbair revealed that approximately 80 Christians were also killed during the violence, adding that his parish offered shelter to Alawites and Christians escaping military conflict. Reports indicated that Alawite families were seeking refuge in Christian homes and churches due to the escalating violence.

Sister Fadia Odisho reported that innocent people are being murdered indiscriminately, regardless of age or gender, with entire communities being attacked. She remarked on the fear that grips the population, as many businesses and markets remain closed due to the violence.

Melkite Greek Catholic Archbishop Georges Khawam underscored the alarming nature of the violence, describing the swift and vicious attacks that left many terrified to leave their homes. He emphasized the government’s inability to maintain order, leading to a culture of violence prevailing over peace.

In response to the ongoing unrest, Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa assured that accountability would be sought for all responsible for violence, reaffirming the need for unity in the nation. On March 10, he signed a ceasefire agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in an effort to alleviate the hostilities and regain control over contested territories.

The situation in Syria remains dire as violence continues to escalate, leading to significant civilian casualties and widespread fear. The humanitarian efforts spearheaded by organizations like CNEWA are crucial in providing relief to affected families. With the government pledging accountability and a ceasefire in place, there is a glimmer of hope for a resolution, though the pervasive chaos persists. The international community remains vigilant regarding the plight of Syrians amidst these harrowing circumstances.

Original Source: www.detroitcatholic.com