Away from the still volatile situation in both East and West Syria with the recent Israeli intervention, cities now under opposition control are experiencing noticeable security stability. This stability has been utilized in the past two days for meetings in various cities and towns, bringing together new military leaderships and Christian spiritual authorities.
The head of the Chaldean Church in Syria, Bishop Antoine Audo, revealed ongoing communication with the opposition to better understand the situation, enhance dialogue, and think of solutions. He stated, "We are working hard to be present in Syria and fulfill our mission to the fullest. We seek only the common good and hope to have the opportunity to live in peace with mutual respect among all citizens. We have always called for respecting the rights of minorities and their beliefs and cultures, and we hope this will continue in the future.
He added, "As Christians in Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon, our main concern is to remain and continue to bear witness to our Christian faith. We are fully aware of this reality and feel the importance of our presence in these sacred lands connected to our ancient history." Audo confirmed that the situation is calm in Aleppo and Damascus and that there is a global political impression of directives to avoid violence and revenge.
The Apostolic Vicar in Aleppo and head of the Latin Church in Syria, Bishop Hanna Jallouf, renewed his call for Christian youth to return to Syria. In a video posted on his Facebook page, he revealed that in the coming days, a statement will be issued about ending military service, followed by a law prohibiting compulsory conscription.
Officially, the Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East for Greek Melkite Catholics called for wisdom, rationality, patience, and cooperation to overcome this difficult phase, working with authorities and responsible parties to achieve security and peace and build Syria. The Patriarchate's statement indicated that this phase requires much wisdom and solidarity, with the combined efforts of all components of the Syrian people to build a country of citizenship, peace, and security where institutions advance, prosper, and achieve equality for all members of the Syrian fabric.
In a notable stance, Christian spiritual authorities in the Valley of Christians region in Western Syria (a region with a high Christian population) issued a statement affirming that the Syrian human being is a supreme value above any other consideration. They emphasized cooperation in achieving security and stability and providing dignified living conditions for everyone, rejecting all forms of violence and hatred.
It should be noted that no church source has yet confirmed the whereabouts of the two kidnapped bishops of Aleppo and two priests since 2013. The family of the kidnapped bishop, Yohanna Ibrahim, expressed in a statement that they have not lost hope in uncovering the fate of the bishops. The statement called for opening prisons and focusing on the security area, especially Branch 291.
Prime Minister Declares Yazidi Fasting Feast as an Official Holiday.