This story at a glance…

1. Syrian Christians face an uncertain future under Islamist-led rule.

2. HTS promises tolerance but raises fears with isolated restrictive actions.

3. The Christian population has plummeted from 10% to under 1.5%.

4. Many wonder if HTS can truly protect minorities and deliver peace.

Syria’s Christians Face Hope and Uncertainty

Christmas celebrations are underway in the Valley of the Christians, a western Syrian enclave. Church bells ring out, and homes are decorated with lights and trees. Yet, for many of Syria’s Christians, the season is clouded by a mixture of optimism and anxiety. The recent overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime has shifted power to Islamist-led groups, raising questions about the future of one of the world’s oldest Christian communities.

Promises of Tolerance Amid Doubts
Leaders of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the dominant Islamist group, have pledged to protect minorities and ensure equal rights. HTS commanders have assured Christian leaders that their religious practices will be respected. Sheikh Ala, an HTS official, told a gathering of Christian and Muslim leaders, “You are our people, and we are your sons. We have no division or discrimination. All people are united, and security is for everyone.”

Despite these assurances, some Christians remain cautious. Reports from Homs describe isolated incidents where liquor stores were shut down, and crosses were removed from vehicles—actions inconsistent with the group’s stated policies. “We are still scared of the unknown future,” said Ammar Fakhouri, a Christian charity worker, though he acknowledged that HTS’s words and actions have provided some reassurance.

A Historic Community at Risk
Syria has been a cradle of Christianity since the time of the apostles, but the civil war, which began in 2011, has decimated its Christian population. Before the conflict, Christians made up about 10% of Syria’s population. Today, estimates suggest they account for only 1.5%, with as few as 200,000 remaining. Aleppo, once home to 500,000 Christians, now has fewer than 30,000 residents from these communities.

Many Christians initially fled areas captured by Islamist forces but returned to safeguard their homes. Others, especially younger generations, see emigration as their only option. A Christian travel agent in Aleppo reflected, “After 30 or 40 years, there won’t be any Christians in Syria because everyone will leave. Those who can’t leave will grow old or pass away.”

Balancing Extremism and Moderation
HTS, a former al Qaeda affiliate, is working to reshape its image as a governing authority. Its leadership emphasizes inclusion and aims to distance itself from its extremist past. However, the international community remains skeptical. HTS is still classified as a terrorist organization by the U.S., European Union, and United Nations. To shed this label and gain international aid, HTS will need to demonstrate its commitment to protecting minorities and fostering national unity.

Some Christians cautiously hope that the group’s promises signal a turning point. Jiris Jabra, a resident of Tartus, expressed relief at Assad’s ousting. “We are optimistic because those who toppled the regime are taking steps that ensure safety and security,” he said. Others, like Meghrig Kalenderian, who left Syria for Dubai, remain unconvinced. “They were part of ISIS and al Qaeda,” she said. “How can I trust someone who was a terrorist two days ago?”

An Uncertain Future
Syria’s Christian community is at a crossroads. While some see hope in the rebels’ conciliatory gestures, others fear a return to historical patterns of marginalization under Islamic rule. The path ahead depends on whether HTS and other Islamist factions deliver on their promises or revert to practices that could drive out what remains of Syria’s Christian population

Reflection
The challenges faced by Syrian Christians serve as a reminder of the trials endured by the early church. Just as Paul placed his trust in Christ amidst danger, believers today can find solace in God’s promises. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” In times of fear and doubt, relying on God’s guidance can provide hope for the road ahead.