Ishtartv.com – ANHA

The Syriac Union Party in Syria issued a statement strongly condemning the bombing that targeted Mar Elias Church in the Dweila neighborhood of Damascus in the evening, which resulted in dozens of martyrs and injuries among innocent worshippers.

The statement described the terrorist act as a "barbaric crime targeting the very fabric of Syria’s national unity, aimed at destabilizing security and inciting sectarian strife in the country." It affirmed that “this cowardly attack, claimed by the terrorist organization ISIS, represents a serious escalation against Christians in Syria and a clear attempt to intimidate and displace them from their homeland.”

The statement held the Syrian transitional government fully accountable for protecting citizens’ lives and ensuring the safety of sacred sites. It called for a swift investigation into the incident and for those responsible to be brought to justice.

“The continued security and administrative shortcomings exacerbate the risks facing religious and ethnic minorities,” the statement said, “leaving them vulnerable and potentially forcing our communities to rely on their own means for protection.”

The statement emphasized the importance of strengthening national unity and solidarity among all Syrians. It rejected any attempts to divide society along sectarian or ethnic lines, and called for the building of a democratic, pluralistic Syria that respects the rights of all its citizens.

The statement concluded by offering heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs and wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded. It also expressed confidence in the Syrian people’s ability to overcome this ordeal by upholding national values and civil peace.