Syrian Christians protest after tree burning incident
Syrian Christians face mounting tensions after a Christmas tree burning incident in Suqaylabiyah sparked protests in Damascus. The event occurred in the wake of recent political upheaval, as opposition rebels successfully ousted President Bashar al-Assad three weeks ago.
The primary rebel group now controlling most of Syria, Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, has promised to protect minorities but has not specifically addressed Christian security during Christmas celebrations. While declaring December 25-26 as public holidays, the lack of explicit security guarantees has left many Christians apprehensive.
In Damascus, Christian neighborhoods maintain their festive decorations, but celebrations are being scaled back due to security concerns. Local residents report no direct restrictions from HTS on celebrations or prayers, though fears of potential attacks by rogue armed elements persist.
A video emerged showing unidentified men burning a public Christmas tree in Suqaylabiyah, near Hama. In response, a rebel appeared alongside Christian priests, promising to restore the tree and punish those responsible. The incident triggered protests in Damascus's Christian neighborhoods, with demonstrators calling for enhanced protection of their community.
The situation reflects broader regional challenges for Christians, who previously enjoyed religious freedom under Assad's regime despite political restrictions. Current concerns echo similar uncertainties faced by Christians in Lebanon and Palestinian territories.
Meanwhile, Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, faces its own challenges. For the second consecutive year, the city will forgo its traditional Christmas tree due to severe isolation resulting from the Gaza conflict, with Mayor Anton Salman reporting significant economic losses and rising unemployment rates. Christmas celebrations there will be limited to prayers and religious rituals in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
