Global (Commonwealth Union) _ A suicide bombing took place on Sunday evening at a church in Damascus, leading to the deaths of at least 20 people and injuring 52, according to reports by the Health Ministry as well as the Syrian Civil Defence.
The incident occurred during a mass service while the church attendees were in the midst of praying, with the blast tearing through the interior of the structure. The attacker was allegedly associated with the ISIL (ISIS) group and reportedly fired shots at civilians before entering the church premises and detonating his vest loaded with explosives. Although no group immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks, the Syrian Interior Ministry confirmed the attacker to be an ISIL fighter.
Sunday’s bombing marks the most significant attack that Syria has experienced recently and raised concerns amid the ongoing political and social instability. Images released shortly after the catastrophe depicted broken and scattered pews, blood stains, and debris.
The attack, which was focused on a religious place of worship, was condemned both domestically and internationally, with the Syrian Information Minister referring to the bombing as a cowardly act that violated civic values and calling for a united front against efforts that threaten social stability in the country.
The response has also reverberated on an international scale, with Geir O. Perdersen, the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, stating that the act is a “hideous crime”. Pedersen also urged the Syrian authorities to conduct a full investigation. The French and Turkish ministries have also condemned the attack and stated their support for Syria, additionally commending its effort to maintain peace and security within the country.
The attack comes during a grave period in Syria, which is currently undergoing a volatile political transition under its recently appointed interim minister, Ahmed al-Sharaa. It has also stirred concerns regarding public security amid renewed insurgencies during the country’s recovery from the civil war that lasted for over a decade.
Various humanitarian organisations have begun providing aid to those affected, while investigations and security measures are in place.
