The Interim President of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is criticized for failing to protect Christians amidst recent violence. Rev. Johnnie Moore argues against European sanctions relief and calls for stronger U.S. action to ensure the regime protects all citizens, particularly Christians, who have seen their numbers dwindle since the civil war began.
In Jerusalem, the Interim President of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, previously affiliated with al Qaeda, has come under fire for his inability to prevent the massacre of over 1,000 Syrians, including Christians, last week. His faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, recognized as a U.S.-designated Sunni terrorist group, overthrew former President Bashar Assad in December. Christian leaders and human rights advocates express skepticism regarding al-Sharaa’s capability to establish a democracy that safeguards vulnerable minority groups.
Rev. Johnnie Moore, president of The Congress of Christian Leaders, articulated that the recent events signify a dire warning; he stated, “This is a warning that the Syrian government is not ready for prime time if it can’t protect a handful of vulnerable Christians who had absolutely nothing to do with this violence except being its victims.” Following graphic footage of atrocities against Syrian Alawites, al-Sharaa vowed to hold accountable those responsible for the civilian casualties, proclaiming, “There will be no one above the law and anyone whose hands have been stained with the blood of Syrians will face justice sooner or later.”
Rev. Moore highlighted the failure of the new government to fulfill its primary duty of citizen protection, citing foreign fighters who have acted both under government direction and independently, resulting in numerous civilian fatalities, including Christians. He remarked, “The new government in Syria may not be ISIS, but they are ‘Islamists.’”
Moore criticized European nations for seemingly endorsing the radical Syrian regime, especially after the United Kingdom announced the removal of sanctions on the Syrian national bank, which he viewed as a troubling signal. He emphasized that the U.S. response should be contrary; the U.S. should convey a strong position that there will be no sanctions relief or normalization until the Syrian government demonstrates its commitment to protecting all citizens, particularly Christians.
Historically, the Syrian civil war has led to significant loss and displacement within Christian communities. It is reported that the Christian population in Syria has diminished drastically, plummeting from approximately 1.5 million before the civil war to around 300,000 currently. The ongoing crisis raises deep concerns for the future of Christianity in Syria, demanding urgent international attention and action.
The recent violence against Christians in Syria, exemplified by the recent massacre and the government’s failure to act, underscores an urgent need for protective measures. Rev. Johnnie Moore emphasizes the responsibility of both the U.S. and international community to provide clear support and sanctions against the Syrian regime until it can ensure the safety of all its citizens. As the Christian population continues to decline, the preservation of their rights and security remains critical.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
