Historic Malula (Maaloula) still struggles with devastation and fear during Syrian political transition
MALULA, Syria — The residents of the historic Christian town of Malula (Maaloula) near Daramsuq (Damascus), continue to voice their grievances over the violations they have endured since the start of the Syrian revolution. Their suffering, which began during the conflict, persists even after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s authoritarian regime.
A Town Under Siege
Malula, renowned for its ancient Christian heritage and its Aramaic-speaking community, faced severe devastation during the Syrian conflict. Speaking to Syriac Press, Ghassan Sarkis Daaboul, a longtime resident, recounted the harrowing experiences of the town’s people since the revolution erupted.
Daaboul described the events of 2013, when factions of the Free Syrian Army and affiliated brigades seized control of the town, committing numerous violations against its residents. At the same time, Assad regime forces launched airstrikes on Malula, causing significant civilian casualties and forcing many to flee.
Destruction and Displacement
“The airstrikes targeted homes, churches, and public spaces, leaving much of the town in ruins,” Daaboul said, emphasizing the extensive destruction of Malula’s infrastructure. He recounted the mass displacement of residents and the tragic loss of lives as both opposition forces and the Assad regime inflicted harm on the town.
Lingering Fear and Uncertainty
Despite the fall of the Assad regime, fear continues to grip the residents of Malula. Many remain reluctant to resume their normal lives or venture beyond their homes, haunted by the uncertainty of Syria’s future.
“We are living with the scars of war and the fear of the unknown,” Daaboul explained, expressing the community’s anxiety about what lies ahead.
The plight of Malula underscores the enduring challenges faced by Syria’s minority communities, even as the nation begins its journey toward rebuilding and reconciliation. The town’s continued suffering serves as a poignant reminder of the long road to recovery for all Syrians.