Aleppo, Syria — February 2026
A new threatening message has been discovered near a church in Aleppo, adding to a string of intimidation incidents targeting Christians across Syria. This follows two similar messages found in November 2025 at St Elias Church in Maared Saidnaya and St Cyrillos Church.
Local partners with Open Doors reported that the latest graffiti, sprayed on a wall near a church in a neighborhood affected by clashes between Kurdish-led SDF forces and the interim government, carried the ominous wording: “Days between us, you cross worshippers,” idiomatically interpreted as “You will be next, you Christians.”
A local observer said, “When I read the text, I got scared. Such a message spreads fear,” highlighting the psychological impact on believers who are already coping with ongoing insecurity and past attacks.
Pattern of Threats
The messages are part of a growing trend of harassment toward Christians, escalating fears since the June 2025 suicide bombing at St Elias Church in Dweilla that killed 22 worshippers. In a separate November 2025 incident, a man was caught on camera spray-painting threats on St Cyrillos Church and attempting to damage a statue of Mary.
Although some areas of Syria have seen improvements under the interim government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, ongoing clashes and extremist activity continue to threaten civilians. A recent attack on a bus traveling between Damascus and Suwayda killed two people and injured 11, underscoring the fragility of security.
Faith Amid Fear
Despite these threats, local Christians remain committed to their faith. Julienne, a believer in Aleppo, recounted the emotional strain caused by ongoing violence: “I went to sleep with tears in my eyes, waiting for the morning and praying that something would change.” A local priest emphasized resilience: “We are the children of faith. We know that God holds the rudder of our lives.”
Open Doors and local church partners urge continued prayers for protection, peace, and courage for Syrian Christians, and for those seeking to harm them to turn away from violence.
Believers in Syria continue to face fear and uncertainty, but their faith and community provide a source of hope and perseverance amid the turmoil.