International condemnation following deadly terrorist attack on Mar Elias Church in Daramsuq (Damascus)

DARAMSUQ — The United Nations, United States, and France have joined a growing chorus of international voices condemning Sunday’s deadly suicide attack at the Greek (Rûm) Orthodox Church of Mar Elias in Daramsuq (Damascus). The attack, which left at least 28 martyred and dozens more injured, has been described by officials as a “heinous crime.”

United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen denounced the attack in a statement, calling it a “barbaric act of terrorism.” He expressed deep dismay and urged a thorough investigation by Syrian authorities, who have attributed the attack to the Islamic State (ISIS). Pedersen called on all parties in Syria to “unite in rejecting terrorism, extremism, incitement, and the targeting of any community within Syria.”

The European Union strongly condemned a terrorist attack on the Mar Elias church in Damascus, which resulted in numerous casualties. In a statement, the EU described the violence as a cowardly assault on Syria’s Christian community and a broader attack on all Syrians.

The EU emphasized the urgency of intensifying efforts to combat terrorism, including the threat posed by Daesh. Expressing solidarity with the Syrian people, the EU reaffirmed its support for transitional authorities working to ensure security and non-discrimination for all citizens, regardless of ethnic or religious background.

Thomas Barrack, the US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy to Syria, condemned the attack on behalf of US President Donald Trump and the American people, referring to the bombing as a “cowardly act.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Barrack wrote, “These despicable acts have no place in the inclusive and tolerant society that Syrians are striving to build.” He reaffirmed Washington’s continued support for the Syrian government in its struggle against those seeking to sow fear and instability both within Syria and across the broader region.

On behalf of @POTUS and the American people, we would like to express our condolences to the victims, families, and individuals impacted by the terrorist attack today at Mar Elias church in al-Duwaileh.

These terrible acts of cowardice have no place in the new tapestry of…

— Ambassador Tom Barrack (@USAMBTurkiye) June 22, 2025

France, through a statement from the spokesperson of its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also “strongly condemned the disgraceful terrorist attack” on the church. The statement reiterated France’s long-standing commitment to a political transition in Syria — one that allows all Syrians, regardless of their faith, to “live in peace and security in a free, pluralistic, prosperous, stable, and sovereign Syria.”

The wave of international responses underscores the growing concern that attacks targeting places of worship risk fueling sectarian tensions and undermining efforts to rebuild trust in post-conflict Syria.