After the events on the Syrian coast... the patriarchs in Syria issue a joint statement.

The patriarchs in Syria issued a joint statement regarding the recent events taking place in the Syrian territory.

The statement mentioned: "Syria has witnessed a dangerous escalation of violence, torture, and killing in recent days, resulting in attacks on innocent civilian citizens, including women and children, as well as assaults on homes, looting of properties, in scenes reflecting the extent of suffering endured by the Syrian people."

They added: "Christian churches strongly condemn any violation that affects civil peace, denounce and reject massacres targeting innocent citizens, and emphasize the need to put an end to these horrific acts that contradict all human and ethical values."

The churches, in their statement, called for expediting the provision of suitable conditions to achieve national reconciliation among the Syrian people, "and working to secure an environment that allows for the transition to a state that respects all its citizens, establishes a society based on equal citizenship and genuine partnership, away from the logic of revenge and exclusion."

They continued: "At the same time, they affirm the unity of Syrian territories, rejecting any attempt to divide them."

The churches also appealed to all relevant parties within Syria, "to bear their responsibilities in stopping the spiral of violence and seeking peaceful solutions that preserve human dignity and safeguard national unity."

The statement concluded with: "We pray for God to protect Syria and its people, and for peace to prevail in its lands."

 

 The statement was issued by:

- John X

Patriarch of Antioch and All the East for the Greek Orthodox.

- Ignatius Aphrem II

Patriarch of Antioch and All the East for the Syriac Orthodox and Supreme Head of the Syriac Orthodox Church worldwide.

- Joseph Absi

Patriarch of Antioch and All the East for the Melkite Greek Catholics.