Apostolic Nuncio in Daramsuq: Fragile peace demands vigilance

VATICAN — In a candid assessment of Syria’s precarious path forward, the Apostolic Nuncio to Daramsuq (Damascus) Cardinal Mario Zenari emphasized the critical importance of fostering peace and reconciliation in a country still reeling from years of conflict. Speaking on the role of Christians in Syria, he urged them to remain steadfast, return from exile, and actively participate in the nation’s reconstruction and political future.

The cardinal’s remarks followed a significant meeting in Daramsuq between Ahmad al-Shara, leader of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and Christian religious leaders. Cardinal Zenari noted that archbishops who attended the meeting expressed cautious optimism about Syria’s future.

However, he acknowledged lingering fears among many Christians, with some contemplating emigration amidst ongoing uncertainty and recent developments.

“There are hopeful signs of consensus on key principles and values with new leaders,” the cardinal observed. “But we must wait and see if words are translated into action.”

Addressing the broader Christian community, Cardinal Zenari declared, “This is not a time for Christians to leave Syria. On the contrary, it is a time for those abroad to return. The Christian presence is vital for rebuilding Syria and championing the principles of human rights, freedom, and mutual respect.”

The cardinal also spoke about the grim situation of Syria’s prisons, where detainees have faced harrowing abuses. He described these atrocities as a source of profound sorrow and a moral reckoning for the international community, which he believes failed to do enough to prevent such suffering.

“The horrors endured in these detention centers are a test of conscience for all of us,” he stated. “The global response has largely been one of ‘wait and see,’ but this must change. We need to act and ensure that such suffering is never repeated.”

Cardinal Zenari’s call to action underscores the fragility of Syria’s current peace and the collective responsibility of its people and the international community to nurture a lasting resolution.