SYRIA: Community Tensions Heightened by Threats

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Syriac Press

A church in Syria. Photo: Flickr / Hovic (CC)

Christians in the city of Al-Qusayr have expressed concerns over threats and other forms of intimidation, calling on the authorities to take necessary measures to protect residents and their properties. The situation follows the arrest of a male instigator identified as Abdo Idris, who had posted photographs of a Christian man online and encouraged other Muslims to attack the believer and boycott his business. Abdo accused the young Christian man of sympathizing with militia groups that are loyal to the former Assad regime.

Following Abdo's arrest, members of the Muslim community took to the streets, threatening Christians and forcing them to close their businesses until Abdo is released from custody. In response, followers of Jesus in the affected community issued a statement urging authorities not to treat such situations as "mere passing disputes or individual incidents," further emphasizing that "Christians are an integral part of Syria's history, present and future."

Reflecting on the incident, VOMC CEO Floyd Brobbel states: "The situation in Al-Qusayr reflects broader challenges facing Christians across the region. Ongoing insecurity and pressure continue to drive Christian families to leave, eroding the church's historic presence and witness. This underscores the importance of supporting local believers and strengthening the church for long-term ministry."
To learn more about the persecution of Christians in this Middle Eastern nation, visit our country profile.

• Prayerfully uphold the Christian residents of Al-Qusayr who have been subjected to threats and other forms of intimidation, asking the Lord to encourage their hearts, strengthen their faith, and reassure them of His abiding presence and providential care.

• In general, pray that peace, mutual respect and understanding will prevail among the members of Syria's various religious communities, and that governing authorities would act with wisdom and impartiality as they work to protect all citizens.

• Even though the ongoing pressure has prompted many believers to leave the region, pray that those who remain will be empowered by the Holy Spirit to continue serving as faithful witnesses of Christ – sharing the hope of the Gospel with courage, grace and love.

SYRIA: Visiting Lebanese Pastor Released from Detainment

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Mission Network News

Pastor Nihad Hassan Photo: CSW

Nihad Hassan is a Kurdish pastor living in Beirut, Lebanon. On various occasions, he has expressed concerns over the difficulties encountered by the Kurdish people in Syria, particularly those who have converted from Islam. Syrian authorities claim that the Lebanese pastor's social media comments were offensive. Consequently, he was arrested on July 20th while visiting family in Afrin, a city located in northern Syria that primarily consists of Kurdish people.

Thankfully, Pastor Nihad was released from custody on August 3rd. At the time of his release, the authorities advised him to return to Lebanon, which he compliantly did. Presently, he is prioritizing the well-being of his children, who were traumatized by the recent arrest. Since the incident, every time he now leaves home, his fearful young daughter cries out, "Daddy, don't go to the police!"

Observers have noted an apparent increase in hostility towards Christians – not only from Syria's governing officials but also others in the country who oppose Christianity. Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government, the previously provided protections of believers have been at risk. Further exacerbating this concern is the notable increase of militant Islamic influences throughout the country.
To access additional reports addressing the various challenges facing followers of Jesus in Syria, go to our country profile.

• Please pray that Pastor Nihad's children will receive needed ministry in the aftermath of this incident, so they can experience complete healing from the lingering effects of the emotional trauma.

• May Christians throughout Syria find safety and solace in the everlasting arms of God.

• Ask the Lord to also work mightily within the hearts and minds of Syria's political and judicial officials, sovereignly guiding them to establish an equitable government that would rightfully protect and serve all citizens.