Islamists in Homs, Syria, devastate Christian quarter
Islamist militant on the streets of Homs. Photo: a video screenshot from t.me/Oleg_Blokhin
On November 23, 2025, major attacks on Christian and Alawite areas of the city were recorded in Homs, Syria.
According to sources and video footage from the scene, armed jihadists from desert areas, including the Bani Khalid tribe and groups associated with the Julani regime, are converging on the city.
Calls for reprisals against Alawites and Christians are spreading online. Local residents report that extremists openly threaten to repeat what they failed to accomplish in Suwayda — mass attacks on the civilian population.
According to available information, armed militants attacked homes and residents of the Armenian quarter of Homs. Published footage shows jihadists rampaging through streets, setting property on fire, and causing chaos in residential areas of the city. Patches and symbols of the terrorist organization DAESH (ISIS) are clearly visible on their clothing and headgear.
The destruction affected several districts populated by Christians and Alawites. Local residents report numerous cases of violence, looting, and threats of further reprisals.
The situation remains tense. Local communities are asking global Christian and humanitarian organizations to pay attention to what is happening and help stop the radicals' attacks on the peaceful population.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Cyprus and the USA agreed on cooperation to protect Christians in Syria.
Read also
Italian Ambassador to Ukraine thanks UOC for Odesa cathedral restoration
At the reception for Republic Day in Kyiv, diplomat Carlo Formosa noted the Church's contribution to the restoration of the Transfiguration Cathedral.
Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev) reassigned to serve in Brazil
After the incident in Czechia, Metropolitan Hilarion will continue his ministry in the Argentine and South American Eparchy.
Israel introduces fines for use of loudspeakers in mosques
Law enforcement officers have received permission to confiscate sound equipment in case of violations.
Catholicos of All Armenians bans government interference in Church affairs
Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II reported the initiation of more than a dozen criminal cases against clergy.
Synod of Romanian Church accepts resignation of Met. Petru of Bessarabia
The Synod Chancellery announced preparations for the election of a new head of the metropolis and the formation of a list of candidates.
Metropolitan Onuphry chairs final meeting of KDAiS Academic Council
The Primate of the UOC awarded orders to distinguished employees of the KDAiS and wished the teaching staff God's help in their continued service to the Church.