Fact Check: Global condemnation follows deadly church bombing in Syria
What We Know
On June 22, 2025, a suicide bombing occurred at the Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Dweil’a, near Damascus, Syria, during a Divine Liturgy. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 25 individuals and injured 63 others, marking it as the first such incident in Damascus in years (AP News, BBC). Witnesses reported that a gunman entered the church, opened fire, and then detonated an explosive vest (Reuters, Washington Post). The Syrian Interior Ministry has indicated that the attacker was affiliated with the Islamic State (IS), although the group has not claimed responsibility for the attack (BBC, Reuters).
In the aftermath, there was widespread condemnation from various governments and organizations. The United States, the European Union, and several Middle Eastern nations condemned the attack, labeling it a terrorist act. U.S. Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, stated that such acts of violence have no place in Syria's pursuit of tolerance and inclusion (AP News, UN News). The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch also expressed outrage, calling for the protection of all citizens and emphasizing the need for accountability from the interim authorities in Syria (BBC, Washington Post).
Analysis
The claim that there has been global condemnation following the deadly church bombing in Syria is supported by multiple credible sources. The attack has drawn responses from various international entities, including the United Nations, which described the bombing as a "heinous crime" (UN News). The reactions from the U.S. and other governments highlight a unified stance against such acts of violence, particularly in a region already fraught with sectarian tensions.
The credibility of the sources reporting on the incident is generally high. The Associated Press, BBC, and Reuters are established news organizations known for their journalistic standards. Their reports are corroborated by eyewitness accounts and official statements from authorities, which adds to the reliability of the information presented. However, it is important to consider potential biases; for instance, the framing of the attack within the context of ongoing sectarian violence may reflect the perspectives of the reporting outlets (Washington Post, Reuters).
Moreover, the absence of an immediate claim of responsibility from IS, despite the Interior Ministry's assertions, raises questions about the motivations behind the attack and the broader implications for security in Syria (BBC, Reuters). This uncertainty does not detract from the global condemnation, which remains a significant aspect of the response to the tragedy.
Conclusion
The claim that global condemnation follows the deadly church bombing in Syria is True. The incident has prompted widespread denunciation from various governments and international organizations, reflecting a collective rejection of such acts of terrorism. The reports from credible news sources confirm both the details of the attack and the subsequent reactions, underscoring the seriousness with which the international community views this event.
Sources
- Mideast governments condemn suicide bombing of Syrian church as death ...
- Twenty killed in suicide bombing at Damascus church
- Syria: Suicide bombing at Damascus church kills 25
- Syria church bombing reignites fears among Christians
- Syrian Christian leader chides president over deadly ...
- Suicide Bombing at Damascus Church Kills at Least 20
- UN condemns 'heinous' terrorist attack at Damascus church ...
- Syria church bombing kills 25, dozens wounded - Al Jazeera