Suicide Bombing Kills 15–20 at Damascus Church

A suicide bombing at Mar Elias Church in Damascus's Dweila neighborhood killed at least 15 to 20 people and injured dozens during Sunday mass, marking the first major attack in the capital since President Bashar al-Assad was ousted in December. Syria's interior ministry confirmed the attacker was affiliated with the Islamic State group and had entered the church, opened fire, and then detonated an explosive vest. Security sources state that two men were involved in the plot, though only one executed the bombing. The attack caused devastation inside the church and drew widespread condemnation from international actors, including the Greek foreign ministry. The incident highlights fears about ISIL sleeper cells as Syria's transitional government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, works to stabilize the country and protect minorities. This bombing follows several previously unsuccessful attacks on churches by IS since Assad's removal.