03/15/2019 Syria (International Christian Concern) – Today marks eight years since the start of the Syrian Civil War, a conflict which has left over 370,000 people dead, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Nearly a third of this number are known to be civilians, over 13 million Syrians have fled the country, and the war’s destruction has caused billions of dollars’ worth of damage.
While at times it appeared otherwise, the Assad regime has managed to regain control over two-thirds of the country. ISIS is fighting to maintain control over their last span of territory in Baghuz. Rebels and other terrorist groups continue to incite violence in other parts of the Syrian countryside.
Most Syrian Christians fled the country early on during the conflict. Pressured by all sides, Christians were singled out by Islamists and considered disposable by different factions. Recent reports indicate that most Christians who remain in Syria are elderly, and unable to leave the country. However, many Muslims have come to Christ during the conflict. They are at great risk of targeted violence should their new faith be discovered.
For interviews with Claire Evans, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org.
