Aleppo: A message of cautious hope has emerged from war-torn Syria, as Bishop Hanna Jalluf, the Apostolic Vicar of Aleppo, stated that the new Syrian government is not persecuting Christians. In an interview with Vatican News, the Bishop dismissed narratives in certain Western media outlets, stressing that their reports often fail to reflect the reality on the ground. “There is currently no persecution against Christians,” he affirmed, while also expressing optimism about the possibility of greater Christian participation in the political life of the country.
The Bishop highlighted that recent developments signal a more inclusive atmosphere. Notably, a Catholic woman, Hind Kabawat, has been appointed as Syria’s Minister of Labor and Social Affairs an appointment that underscores the government’s willingness to integrate Christians into national leadership. Bishop Jalluf, however, acknowledged that the road ahead remains fragile, with forces still working against Syria’s stability. Radical groups continue to harbor ambitions of establishing an Islamic state, posing a lingering threat to peace and diversity.
One of the most urgent concerns for Syria’s Christian community is halting the ongoing exodus of its youth. After more than a decade of conflict, young Syrians remain disillusioned, often unable to envision a peaceful future within their homeland. “Preventing migration is one of our priorities,” Bishop Jalluf explained. “We want to ensure that young people can stay here and rebuild their future, rather than seeking it elsewhere.”
He reminded Christians of their deep historical roots in Syria, a land where the faith took shape in its earliest centuries. “It is true that we are a minority in Syria,” the Bishop said. “But we must remember that we are the salt of this land. The Christian faith was born here, and it is our duty to carry forward this historical legacy.” Reflecting on the Gospel message, he added, “The Lord never asked us to be great. He said, ‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for my name’s sake.’ That blessing gives us strength.”
Before the outbreak of civil war in 2011, Christians made up around 10 percent of Syria’s population. Today, the number has dropped dramatically to less than 2 percent. Bishop Jalluf’s testimony, however, offers a rare note of reassurance for a community struggling to survive against the tides of war, extremism, and migration pressures an appeal to hope that Syria’s Christian presence may endure in its ancient homeland.