In a recent interview with Vatican Media, Bishop Hanna Jallouf, O.F.M, the Apostolic Vicar of Aleppo, delves into the heartbreaking surge of violence against remnants of the former Assad regime in Syria. The violence has resulted in the tragic deaths of over 1,300 individuals, including innocent women and children, and the forced displacement of Alawite civilians.
As a spiritual leader of Syria’s Latin Catholics, Bishop Jallouf stresses the urgent need for Syria to be reunited and emphasizes the crucial role of the international community in contributing to peace efforts in the war-torn nation.
The recent clashes, primarily between Alawite supporters of Bashar al-Assad and the new rulers in the coastal Latakia region, have sparked widespread devastation. The Alawite community, the second-largest religious group in Syria after Sunni Muslims, has been gravely affected by the ongoing violence.
In the wake of these tragic events, Bishop Jallouf addresses the pressing questions surrounding Syria’s descent into chaos, the regime’s promises of national reunification and tolerance toward minorities, and the role of foreign powers in exacerbating internal divisions.
Despite the alarming escalation of violence, Bishop Jallouf remains hopeful that Syria can overcome its challenges and achieve peace. He emphasizes the importance of national reconciliation and the need for Christians to play a pivotal role in promoting unity and coexistence among diverse communities in the country.
The international community’s support is crucial in building a peaceful future for Syria. Let us all stand together in solidarity and work towards a brighter tomorrow for this war-torn nation.