SYRIA: Christians in Holeb (Aleppo) push back against calls to wear hijab

HOLEB, Syria — A video circulating on social media has sparked outrage in the predominantly Christian Sulaymaniyah neighborhood of Holeb (Aleppo), Syria. The footage shows public announcements made via loudspeakers urging women to wear the hijab, raising concerns about religious freedom and societal imposition in one of Syria’s historically diverse communities.

Rising Concerns Over Religious Imposition

The calls for wearing the hijab and discouraging gender mixing have unsettled many residents of Sulaymaniyah. Speaking to Syriac Press, Elias, a local resident, expressed his apprehension about the incident, stating, “Our neighborhoods have always been peaceful. This is a step into an uncertain future for religious liberties.”

Another resident, Jerji, who witnessed the announcements firsthand, noted that the individuals making the proclamations were unfamiliar to the area. “Christians in Aleppo have long adhered to their own traditions and customs. Forcing new practices upon us is deeply unsettling,” he said, emphasizing his hope for a future government that respects diverse societal values.

Broader Context Amid Political Shifts

The incident comes amid significant political and security shifts in Holeb following the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) to power. The militant group’s growing influence has fueled fears of increased restrictions on freedoms and attempts to impose religious conformity in Syria’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious regions.

While Sulaymaniyah’s residents remain resilient, the loudspeaker proclamations signal a troubling development for a city historically celebrated for its cultural diversity. The situation has raised concerns about the future of pluralism in Holeb and across Syria as the country navigates its volatile political landscape.

Call for Inclusive Governance

Residents of Sulaymaniyah have stressed the urgent need for a future Syrian government that guarantees the rights of all communities. Many have called for a renewed commitment to safeguarding religious freedom and cultural diversity — values they fear are at risk of erosion under current circumstances.

As Holeb’s Christian community grapples with these challenges, their resistance to the hijab mandate reflects a broader struggle to preserve their identity and rights in an increasingly uncertain environment.