Tragic Attack on Damascus Church Claims Lives and Shocks Community

The devastating suicide bombing at a church in Damascus, reportedly carried out by an individual linked to the Islamic State, has left 20 dead and 52 injured. The attack occurred during a service, marking the first such incident in the city since key regime shifts.

A tragic incident unfolded in Dweila, Damascus, where a suicide bomber detonated an explosive vest inside Mar Elias Church during a service, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 individuals and injuring 52 more, according to Syria's health ministry. Witnesses recounted the harrowing moments when the attacker, armed with a weapon, opened fire before triggering the explosion. Initial investigations suggest the perpetrator had connections to the jihadist group, Islamic State (IS), although the group has not yet claimed responsibility.

Visuals from the scene, captured by the Syrian Civil Defence, commonly known as the White Helmets, depicted a chaotic aftermath; the church’s altar was heavily damaged, and the floors were covered with debris and blood. Eyewitnesses described horrific scenes of destruction, with one individual recalling flames and debris being propelled toward the entrance as chaos ensued inside the worship space.

Security personnel quickly cordoned off the area, and an investigation is currently underway to determine the details surrounding the attack. This incident marks the first bombing of this nature in Damascus since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces in December. Furthermore, it raises concerns over the safety of religious and ethnic minorities in the region. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has previously vowed to safeguard these communities amidst a backdrop of rising sectarian tensions, as Syria grapples with multiple waves of violence in recent months.