SYRIA: Greek Melkite family murdered in Valley of Christians, man beheaded

HMOTH, Syria — A wave of random murders targeting Christians now plagues Hmoth (Homs) and the Syrian coast, with reports of brutal beheadings and home invasions in the Wadi al-Nasara (Valley of Christians) by unidentified gunmen.

Among the latest victims were Samaan Satme and Helena Khashouf, residents of the village of Al-Jamasliyye in Hmoth. They were savagely murdered in their home. Initially reported as a burglary gone wrong, the details revealed more sinister motives as Samaan was beheaded.

The victims were laid to rest during a funeral service held at the Church of Saint Simeon Stylites in Haba.

The Christian community in Syria remains under constant threat, facing murder, kidnappings, torture, and displacement. Churches have also been targeted, suffering from destruction, theft, and looting, with ongoing threats from various rebel factions exacerbating the crisis.

This persistent violence highlights the precarious position of Christians in the region and the urgent need for international attention and action to protect vulnerable communities.