Archbishop Reflects on the Unyielding Violence in Syria and Its Humanitarian Impact

Archbishop Antoine Chbair warns that the end of Syria’s violence is uncertain amidst ongoing conflict. The recent clashes, resulting in significant civilian casualties, reflect deep sectarian strife. Human rights organizations report alarming levels of violence against civilians, and leaders call for unity and accountability as efforts are made to restore peace in the war-torn nation.

Maronite Archbishop Antoine Chbair of Latakia and Tartus expressed deep concern over the current violent situation in Syria, stating, “No one knows the end” of the violence. Since March 6, numerous civilians have lost their lives as security forces engage with armed supporters of former president Bashar Assad, whose regime collapsed following a rapid rebel offensive last December. This upheaval surfaced after 13 years of civil conflict, resulting in over 600,000 deaths.

Syria is currently facing significant “sectarian strife.” Reports claim that violence erupted on March 6 in Latakia province, predominantly inhabited by Alawite Muslims, who share a sect with Assad and his regime. The majority of the Syrian population, approximately 70%, are Sunni Muslims. As various human rights organizations indicate, at least 800 fatalities have occurred amid the unrest, with many more feared unaccounted for. The United Nations human rights chief, Volker Türk, highlighted reports of entire families, including women and children, being executed in a brutal manner within this turmoil.

According to the Beirut office of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), more than three-quarters of those killed during the recent clashes were civilians. CNEWA, an initiative founded by Pope Pius XI, aims to provide crucial humanitarian support in the region, facilitating aid for displaced individuals, healthcare for vulnerable populations, and assistance to marginalized groups, including children and the elderly.

CNEWA reported that violence involved targeting Alawites in several alleged massacres across Tartus and Latakia on March 7 and 8. Notably, Archbishop Chbair indicated that approximately 80 Christians also perished amidst the violence. In response, the archeparchy opened its parish in Banias to shelter Alawites and Christians from military factions. In certain areas, Alawite families sought refuge in Christian households and churches, highlighting the intertwining of community struggles.

Sister Fadia Odisho from Tartus condemned the brutality, stating that fighters had indiscriminately attacked innocents, disregarding age or gender. She noted that despite demonstrations in solidarity with the oppressed, civilians faced aggression from militia members, resulting in widespread fear and economic paralysis.

Archbishop Georges Khawam also shared the distressing circumstances, describing civilians frantically attempting to return home while witnessing violent skirmishes. He characterized the fighters’ presence as extensive, leading to rapid and aggressive attacks. He denounced the government’s inability to maintain order, expressing that, “the culture of killing wins over the culture of peace.”

Many individuals have been driven to despair as they grapple with job losses, empty supermarkets, and blocked access to their bank funds. Archbishop Khawam remarked on the widespread desire among Syrians to escape the deteriorating conditions. Yet, an effort towards unity was articulated by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who vowed accountability for those responsible for the violence, emphasizing, “Syria is a state of law.”

On March 10, al-Sharaa signed a ceasefire with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, marking a step towards reducing hostilities and aiming to fortify a unified Syrian military force in the face of ongoing conflicts across the nation.

The situation in Syria remains dire as ongoing violence continues to devastate communities and exacerbate humanitarian crises. The sectarian strife witnessed, particularly in Latakia and Tartus provinces, has resulted in significant civilian casualties and heightened fears among displaced populations. As leaders strive for accountability and unity, the prospect of peace appears fraught with challenges amid a backdrop of chaos and suffering. The humanitarian efforts led by organizations like CNEWA emphasize the urgent need for support and solidarity in the region.

Original Source: www.osvnews.com