Syrian Authorities Arrest Suspects in Deadly Damascus Church Suicide Bombing
Syrian Interior Ministry detains suspects linked to ISIS claimed Damascus church bombing that killed 25 and injured 63 . Explosives seized . Officials pledge swift justice .
BEIRUT June 23 2025 – The Syrian Interior Ministry has confirmed the arrest of several individuals in connection with the devastating suicide bombing and shooting attack at the Greek Orthodox Mar Elias Church in Damascus . The assault which occurred during Sunday evening mass in the Dweila district killed at least 25 people and injured 63 others .
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Tragic Details of the Attack
Witnesses report that an assailant believed to be affiliated with the Islamic State ISIS entered the church during worship opened fire on congregants and then detonated an explosive vest . Authorities also suspect a grenade may have been used . Surveillance footage and initial investigations suggest the attacker had an accomplice who shot at the church doors just prior to the explosion .
Sweeping Security Operation
In response Syrian security forces launched a wide scale crackdown across Damascus and surrounding areas . Several criminals involved in the attack were arrested and law enforcement seized explosive devices and a booby trapped motorcycle . Interior Minister Anas Khattab stated the suspects were linked to ISIS sleeper cells reaffirming the ministrys commitment to dismantling terrorist networks .
Government Vows Justice
President Ahmed al Sharaa who assumed office after Bashar al Assads ouster condemned the attack as a direct assault on Syrian unity . Special units worked night and day to find those responsible he said assuring citizens that justice would be served . Interior Ministry spokesperson Noureddine al Baba called the bombing an attack on all Syrians regardless of religious affiliation .
Religious and Community Fallout
The attack has reignited fear within Syrias Christian community which has shrunk from 1.5 million before the war to about 400000 today . Religious leaders have called for immediate protection of churches and minority communities . International bodies including the UN and Arab League condemned the bombing and urged for national reconciliation .
Ongoing Threats
This bombing marks the first major terror incident in Damascus since December 2024 . It underscores the Sharaa administrations ongoing struggle to stabilize Syria combat extremism and rebuild trust in public security .