10/01/2025

Greek Orthodox Hagia Sophia Church in Suqaylabiyah, Syria, shuttered by HTS

SUQAYLABIYAH, Syria – Christian communities in Syria are grappling with heightened fear and uncertainty following the takeover by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) on 8 December 2024. Reports of threats, attacks, and violations against Christians and their religious institutions have surged, with the latest incident being the abrupt and permanent closure of the Greek Orthodox Hagia Sophia Church in Suqaylabiyah.

Closure Without Explanation

According to local sources, the church was suddenly sealed with cement following verbal threats issued to its caretakers by an official linked to HTS’s military operations in the region. Residents expressed shock and outrage over the closure, which was implemented without prior notice or clear justification. HTS officials claimed the move was intended to safeguard the church’s property from theft, but many locals questioned the validity of this explanation.

Escalating Tensions

The closure of the church is the latest in a series of alarming incidents targeting Syria’s Christian communities. In mid-December, unidentified armed individuals stormed the same church, vandalizing its interior.



Around the same time, another act of desecration occurred when a Christmas tree in Suqaylabiyah was burned and destroyed. The perpetrators were reportedly foreign elements associated with HTS, further inflaming tensions.

These incidents have sparked widespread outrage among Syria’s Christian population. Protests erupted in cities such as Daramsuq (Damascus) and Zalin (Qamishli), where demonstrators condemned these acts as deliberate attacks on their faith, identity, and heritage.

HTS Promises vs. Reality

Since launching its offensive against the former Syrian regime on 27 November, HTS has repeatedly claimed a commitment to safeguarding the rights of Christians to practice their faith freely. The group has also vowed to hold accountable those responsible for anti-Christian actions. However, the rise in harassment, violence, and institutional closures tells a different story. Investigations promised by HTS have yielded no tangible results, leaving affected communities disillusioned and vulnerable.

Uncertain Future for Christians

The closure of Hagia Sophia Church and the escalating violations highlight the precarious situation of Syria’s Christian minority under HTS governance. Despite assurances of tolerance and protection, these promises remain unfulfilled, casting doubt over the direction of Syria’s political and social transition.

As Christian communities continue to face targeted attacks and restrictions, they are left questioning whether their place in Syria’s future will be one of inclusion or further marginalization.