In Syria, believers stage protests following another murder of Christians

Protests following the deadly attack in Wadi Nasara (Valley of Christians), Syria. Photo: syriacpress

In the Christian city of Anaz in Wadi Nasara (Valley of Christians), Syria, on the evening of October 1, 2025, unidentified armed assailants opened heavy fire on a group of young Christians near the office of the local mukhtar. Cousins Wisam George Mansour and Shafiq Rafiq Mansour were killed, and a third critically injured. As reported by SyriacPress, the murder sparked a wave of outrage among local residents.

In response to the attack, people blocked roads, set fire to tires and a security checkpoint, demanding protection and justice. A general strike took place in the villages of the region, and bells in all churches rang in mourning and protest.

On Thursday evening, 2 October, residents of the valley organized a candlelight procession in memory of the slain youths. Beginning at St. Elias Church in Hawash, the march continued to the site in Anaz where the young men were martyred, uniting the community in mourning and determination.

The next day, funerals for the deceased were held, attended by thousands of residents of Wadi Nasara.

Residents of Wadi Nasara buried the brothers as martyrs for the faith. According to the ancient tradition of Syrian Christians, the burial of the young and martyrs occurs with drums and lamentations.

Simultaneously, candlelight vigils were held in other cities, including the capital Damascus, where in the historic district of Bab Touma, dozens of people expressed solidarity with the victims' families.

The tragedy also had political consequences: several Christian candidates announced the withdrawal of their candidacies from the upcoming elections, protesting against the inaction of the authorities. In particular, candidate Ghassan Youssef al-Shami called for urgent measures to limit the spread of weapons in the country.

Political parties and church structures, including the Patriarchate of Antioch, condemned the crime. In its statement, the Church called the murder a "heinous crime that disgraces humanity", held the authorities responsible for the investigation, and called for the swift restoration of peace and justice. The Church of Antioch expressed prayerful support for the families of the deceased.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Islamists in Syria killed a Christian pastor and 20 members of his family.

Read also