The European Union has failed to offer meaningful political support to Syria’s Christian population, according to Abbess Agnes Mariam de la Croix.
Agnes Mariam de la Croix, Mother Superior of the Monastery of Saint James the Mutilated in Syria, asserts that Syria’s Christian community has never received political backing from the West, especially Europe.
The Abbess made these comments during a Tuesday interview with RT, following the recent burning of a Christmas tree in Hama by Islamist militants.
This incident has angered local residents, leading to protests in Damascus’ Christian neighborhoods on Monday, fueled by fears of further persecution of religious minorities.
Online videos depict masked individuals setting fire to a tree in Al-Suqalabiyah, a predominantly Christian town near Hama.
Responding to these events, de la Croix noted that after seizing power, jihadist groups, notably Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), pledged to protect minorities, even visiting religious leaders in Aleppo, Hama, and Damascus.
However, she stated the community has faced “various forms of discrimination and misunderstanding of our Christian symbols, especially during this sacred Christmas season.”
Regarding reports of European aid, de la Croix stated, “we do not rely on Western protection, I regret to say.”
She emphasized Europe’s lack of genuine support for Syrian Christians, adding that there was a sense it was “even forbidden for us to discuss the persecution of Christians.” She claimed European politicians “were displeased” when she raised this issue.
HTS jihadists launched a surprise offensive in Idlib and Aleppo late last month. After swiftly taking Aleppo, they advanced towards Damascus, capturing Suqaylabiyah, Hama, and Homs before joining forces with US-armed Free Syrian Army (FSA) militants for an assault on the capital. Former Syrian President Bashar Assad sought refuge in Russia.
Under Assad, Christians and other religious minorities practiced their faith openly.
HTS leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa promised an inclusive Syria where all groups are represented. However, under HTS rule, many fear persecution.
“We feel insecure, at the very least,” de la Croix said, noting that aggression targeted other minorities as well.
Burning the Christmas tree represents “burning our principles, faith, joy, and the spirit of Christmas,” according to de la Croix, who called it “an insult” to the community.
The Abbess expressed hope for improvement in the dire situation facing Syria’s ethnic and religious minorities.
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