Unidentified gunmen attacked a Greek Orthodox church in Hama, Syria, on Wednesday, December 18, firing shots at its walls and attempting to remove the cross, according to local reports.
No casualties were reported, but the incident caused minor damage and widespread panic. The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) condemned the attack and urged for accountability.
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Hama confirmed the incident, stating that local police had responded to its complaint and were actively tracking the suspects.
“The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Hama confirms that a shooting incident took place. What happened has been immediately followed up by the Hama Police Command and the perpetrators are being tracked down,” a statement from the police read.
Unconfirmed reports suggested a nearby cemetery was also attacked, with images online showing damaged gravestones and statues.
The SNHR attributed a series of similar attacks in Hama to rebel groups, particularly Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which took control of the province on December 5.
Hama is known for its religious and ethnic diversity, home to Sunnis, Shia, Christians, and Alawites. Despite assurances from HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa that Syria’s minorities would be protected, attacks on religious sites and properties persist in the region.
Source: newarab.com
