Syria's Christians Face Uncertain Future Amid Turmoil

Following the departure of Bashar al-Assad on December 8, 2024, Christians in Syria express a mix of fear and cautious optimism about the new authorities. While daily life shows signs of normalcy with open schools and shops, safety concerns linger, prompting some parents to keep children home due to a lack of police presence. In contrast, the Alawite community faces escalating violence and fears as protests erupt in response to provocations, including a desecrated shrine, resulting in casualties. Maaloula, a significant Christian town, is reportedly under threat again, with armed conflicts and property confiscations by rebel forces, reviving memories of past atrocities during the civil war. The overall sentiment among Christians is one of uncertainty about their future and increasing considerations for migration. Meanwhile, Alawite residents, once hopeful after regime change, now grapple with terror and violence in their communities.