Additional Coverage:
Damascus Church Bombing Claims Lives, Wounds Dozens
A suicide bombing at the Mar Elias Church in Dweil’a, on the outskirts of Damascus, has left dozens of casualties. Syrian state television and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the attack, which occurred during prayer services on Sunday.
While the exact number of dead and wounded remains unclear, the Observatory estimates at least 30 casualties, with local media reporting children among the victims. This marks the first attack of this nature in Syria in years.
The bombing comes as President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s government struggles to consolidate control amidst concerns about extremist sleeper cells. The attack raises questions about the stability of the region and the potential for further violence.
An eyewitness video circulating online purports to show the attacker opening fire within the church before detonating an explosive vest. Security forces and first responders were quickly on the scene.
The incident underscores the challenges faced by the Syrian government in its efforts to restore peace and security.