We condemn what happened in Al-Suqaylabiyah

 

The Patriarchs: His Beatitude JOHN X, Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and All the East; His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Syriac Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and All the East and Supreme Head of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church; and His Beatitude Youssef Absi, Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, convened at headquarters of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Damascus.

The meeting addressed the recent developments, with particular attention to the events in Al-Suqaylabiyah in the Hama countryside, the broader national Syrian context, and the situation of Christians across the country.

With deep concern and a sense of responsibility, the Patriarchs addressed the challenges facing Syria that threaten the country's shared coexistence between Muslims and Christians. They emphasized the urgent need to control unregulated weapons and to maintain security and stability. They also stressed the importance of safeguarding the dignity of all citizens without exception. This must be grounded in the principles of citizenship, equal rights and duties, and respect for both personal and public freedoms.

On the occasion of the upcoming feasts, the Patriarchs extended their blessings and greetings to the faithful, while directing that celebrations be limited exclusively to prayers within the churches.

They concluded by offering prayers for peace in Syria, in Lebanon, and throughout the world.