Christians in Aleppo Face Uncertainty Amid Rebel Advances
The recent seizure of Aleppo by the radical Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and other rebel factions has left the Christian community in the city grappling with fear and uncertainty. Following a rapid offensive that began on November 29, 2024, the rebels have captured over 80% of Aleppo, prompting an exodus of approximately 3,000 families, including many Christians. However, a significant number have chosen to remain, including nine Christian bishops, who are now faced with the prospect of living under the new regime.
Father Hugo Alaniz, an Argentine priest based in Aleppo, described the situation as dire, with reports of heavy fighting and bombings from Russian and Syrian forces in response to the rebel advances. He noted that the rebels have occupied 20 villages and cut off the Damascus road, raising concerns about the future of the city and its inhabitants. Despite the chaos, Father Alaniz emphasized that the rebels have reassured Christians that they are not their targets, stating, "Christian brothers, do not be afraid, our goals are different."
The Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The humanitarian situation in Aleppo has deteriorated significantly, with reports indicating that over 500 people have died amidst the violence, and many bodies remain unburied in the streets. The lack of basic services, such as electricity and water, has compounded the suffering of the residents. Father Alaniz mentioned that the community has been living in poverty, with teachers earning as little as 20 euros a month.
As the conflict escalates, the fear of reprisals against Christians lingers, although many believe that the current Islamist groups do not specifically target them. The priest highlighted that while some extremist factions have persecuted Christians in the past, the current situation appears different, with many Christians having found refuge in areas controlled by these groups.
Geopolitical Implications and Future Outlook
The rapid advances of HTS and other rebel factions have not only posed a challenge to the Assad regime but have also raised questions about the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. The rebels' success could disrupt Russian influence in the region, as Moscow has been a key ally of Assad. The ongoing conflict may also have implications for the broader war in Ukraine, as the instability in Syria could potentially weaken Russia's southern flank.
As Aleppo faces a new chapter under rebel control, the Christian community remains hopeful for peace and stability. Father Alaniz expressed a desire for an end to the violence, stating, "We sincerely try to give a message of hope to our people and we ask for this to pass quickly, that we can live in peace, with dignity." The situation remains fluid, and the international community watches closely as events unfold in this historically significant city.
