A suicide bomber blew himself up during a prayer on Sunday at the Mara Alias Church located in Dwella, Syrian capital Damascus. According to the information, at least 10 people died and more than 15 people were injured in this attack. Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK -based organization, said that the death toll could be up to 30, although it has not been confirmed yet. Some local media reports states that children are also included in the victims.
Suicide attack occurred in Syria after years
The attack is the first suicide attack in Syria after many years. This has happened at a time when the effect of Islamic extremist groups on Damascus and its surrounding areas is increasing. The incident has increased the possibility of terrorist sleeper cell (hidden terrorist groups) being activated again. At the same time, it is becoming more difficult to establish control over the entire country for President Ahmed al-Shra, as he is constantly facing security and political challenges.
Doubt of ISIS involvement in terrorist attack
So far no terrorist organization has taken responsibility for this attack, but the Syrian Ministry of Syrian says that a terrorist of the Islamic State (ISIS) entered the church and fired bullets and then blew itself with an explosive jacket. Witnesses have also been revealed about this attack. An eyewitness named Raad told the Associated Press that he saw the attacker, who was with two more people. Both of them fled from the spot. Raad said, “He was firing bullets on the church … then he went in and blew himself up.”
Government said this
Syrian Information Minister Hamza Almustafa strongly condemned the attack on the church and described it as a “cowardly terrorist attack”. He wrote on the social media platform X that Syria is committed to give equal rights to all citizens. He also said that the government will continue its efforts to fight against terrorist organizations and protect people. In the photographs released by government media, the benches of the church were seen stained with blood and debris was spread on the floor. Emergency teams and security forces reached the spot. Many remaining people were seen crying in deep shock and sorrow.
