Photo: UN Development Programme (cc)
The Syrian city of Ras al-Ein, which happens to be located along the country's border with Türkiye, is currently under the control of a coalition of Islamist militias associated with the Turkish-backed rebel group, the Syrian National Army (SNA). In June 2024, a SNA commander named Abdulaziz Al-Sawadi visited the St. Thomas Syriac Orthodox Church in Ras al-Ein and expressed his commitment to develop a positive relationship with the small number of Christians remaining in the area. During his visit, the commander also vowed to provide the believers protection.
Regrettably, the Christian community did not receive the protection promised to them. It was recently reported that 500 acres of farmland have since been confiscated from Christians residing in the area by a commander from one of the affiliated Islamist militia groups. Along with the confiscations, the militia groups are threatening to increase the farmers' taxes from 20 to 35 percent.
A local tribal chief has condemned the imposed actions. "We have tried to reach out to these militias and their Turkish masters, but they have constantly ignored us," the chief explained. "Our Christian brothers have contributed massively to the development and richness of our area. They ran the most successful education, agricultural and health projects, and we are concerned that the remaining Christians will be forced to leave, which would be a big loss for us all."
Speaking of the militia groups, a Muslim tribal leader stated: "They don't represent us; they only represent themselves and their backers. They are worse than Assad's officials, who were corrupt but didn't interfere with personal and religious freedoms." For additional information outlining the troubling situations facing Christians in Syria, go to our country report.
Prayerfully remember the beleaguered Christians in Syria who are encountering various challenges from multiple militia groups, asking the Lord to encourage, strengthen and meet the needs of these faithful followers of Jesus. May a sfigure governing force be established in the country; one that would take into account the concerns and rights of all Syrian citizens. Furthermore, pray that believers in Ras al-Ein – as well as those in other areas of this Middle Eastern nation – will serve as consistent witnesses to their neighbouring community members, leading many more to faith in Christ.
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