12/04/2020 Syria (International Christian Concern) – Media reports indicate that Turkish backed groups have increased attacks near Syria’s Ain al-Issa and the surrounding countryside. The timing of these reports also coincide with the return of approximately 1,000 Syrian fighters from Nagorno-Karabakh. Many of these mercenaries were hired by Turkey, allegedly from this same area of Syria where attacks are now increasing.
The increase of attacks in Syria violates the ceasefire agreement Turkey has with the US and Russia. Meanwhile in Nagorno-Karabakh, the fighting ceased because of a truce brokered between Turkey and Russia. In both locations, the conflict occurred in an area with a strong historic Armenian Christian presence. In both locations, the conflict has resulted in their displacement and was conducted with strong Islamic extremist overtones.
The complications of this situation showcase why many regional Christians often feel that their future is reliant upon geopolitics, particularly of the military nature. Their homelands are used by other nations to outmaneuver and out-strategize the other. Thus, regional Christians often feel that their own safety and security will never be accomplished if they remain home.
For interviews, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org.
