Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets across Syria after foreign fighters burned down a Christmas tree, sparking concerns about sectarian violence. Demonstrators resumed marches on Tuesday morning in the Christian areas of Damascus after video footage circulated on social media showing the burning of the tree near Hama, igniting outrage among the community. The protests not only occurred in Damascus but also erupted in Hama and other Christian-majority regions.
"We demand the rights of Christians," protesters chanted as they marched through the Syrian capital, directing their steps toward the headquarters of the Orthodox patriarchate located in the Bab Sharqi neighborhood. One demonstrator, who identified himself as Georges, expressed the deep-seated injustices faced by Christians: "If we’re not allowed to live our Christian faith in our country, as we used to, then we don’t belong here anymore," he told AFP.
The initial incident took place when footage emerged showing two hooded fighters setting fire to the Christmas tree in Suqaylabiyah, a predominantly Christian town close to Hama. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights revealed these individuals were militants associated with the Islamist group Ansar al-Tawhid, noting their foreign origins. This video spread rapidly, prompting widespread public outrage.
This wave of protests came on the heels of the recent political upheaval following the toppling of the Bashar al-Assad government, which many Western nations have welcomed as an end to years of repression. Despite this apparent victory, there lingered fears among the Christian community about potential sectarian violence. The victorious Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which previously had ties with al-Qaeda, has publicly stated its commitment to ensuring the country is inclusive and protective of all minorities, Christians included.
Following the tree burning incident, HTS responded vigorously, asserting those responsible were not Syrian fighters and promising severe punishment for their actions. A religious leader from HTS appeared on video, claiming, "The tree will be restored and lit up by tomorrow morning," even holding up a cross as a symbol of solidarity with the Christian community. This public demonstration of support is notable, considering the general perception of Islamist groups by Christians and the broader public.
Demonstrators rallied explicitly over the need for enhanced protection for Christians, chanting against sectarianism as they marched through the capital, making their way toward churches. The protests aimed not just to express their anger about the Christmas tree burning but also to highlight the wider issues of insecurity and the decline of the Christian population. Indeed, Syria’s Christian demographic has shrunk dramatically from 1.5 million individuals (approximately 10% of the pre-war population) to around 300,000 today.
The Ecumenical Patriarchate had addressed concerns for the Christian community as early as mid-December, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Syria’s rich Christian heritage and cultural legacy. The Patriarchate urged political leaders to prioritize the protection of life, safety, and historical sites. Participants at the demonstrations were echoing this sentiment, wagering their future on the prospects of maintaining their religious identity amid overwhelming obstacles.
This incident and its fallout have heightened the atmosphere of insecurity and fear among the Christian community, which has historically viewed the Assad regime as a protector, particularly during the turmoil of the Syrian civil war. Now, with new power dynamics at play and Islamist groups holding significant political influence, many Christians are left questioning their place within the fabric of Syrian society.
Despite HTS’s reassurances and promises to hold those accountable for the Christmas tree burning, the protests reflect underlying tensions and fears of sectarianism resurfacing as the country's political situation evolves. Observers note the complexity of these changing dynamics, highlighting how sectarian identities can be both deeply rooted and fluid depending on the current sociopolitical climate.
While the HTS has vowed to defend the rights of minorities, the ultimate test will lie in their ability to deliver on these promises. For now, participants at the protests are clinging to hope, calling for their rights and demanding recognition not just as members of the Christian community, but as integral parts of Syria's diverse society.
Moving forward, the fate of Syria's Christians may depend on how effectively the new leadership can balance competing interests and forge clear protections for all communities threatened by intolerance. The nation’s fragile peace and the security of its myriad religious and ethnic groups hang delicately on the response to such incidents and the actions of those now wielding power.
