Cyprus announces support for Greek (Rûm) Orthodox Patriarchate following Mar Elias Church attack

DARAMSUQ — In the aftermath of the terrorist attack on the Greek (Rûm) Orthodox Church of Mar Elias in Daramsuq (Damascus) that left 28 martyred and 63 wounded, the Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced emergency financial aid to the families of the victims.

The assistance will be channeled through the Greek (Rûm) Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch to address urgent needs, including medical care for the wounded, psychological support, and repairs to the damaged church.

In a phone call between Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos and Patriarch John X, Kombos reaffirmed the Republic of Cyprus’s full support and strongly condemned the attack. He also emphasized the need for a full investigation by Syrian authorities, whom he holds responsible for ensuring the protection of Christian communities.

The Cypriot Foreign Minister further highlighted the importance of supporting Syria’s Christian population during a recent meeting of the European Union’s Foreign Affairs Council held in Brussels on 23 June.