Most Syrian Christians Aren’t Backing Assad (or the Rebels) - George Fahmi

[TomSea]

Most Syrian Christians Aren’t Backing Assad (or the Rebels)

Contrary to perception, a majority of Christians in Syria have no definite political position in the current struggle.

Christians are often portrayed as supportive of the Syrian regime. There are two main reasons for this: most Christian areas haven’t witnessed demonstrations against the regime and many church leaders have declared their support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The regime and some Islamic groups have encouraged this perception – it serves their aims to frame the struggle in Syria as sectarian.

However, a closer look at the Christian landscape shows a different picture.

I’ve spent the last year interviewing Syrian Christians, both religious and lay, from different Syrian cities: Damascus, Aleppo, Homs and Al-Qamishli. Some of them are still based in Syria, while others have left the country.

There are certainly Christians who support the regime, including senior religious figures, state officials and business people whose interests are invested in it. There are also Christians who have supported the revolution from day one.

- See more at: https://www.chathamhouse.org/expert/comment/most-syrian-christians-aren-t-backing-assad-or-rebels#sthash.MQS2thFG.dpuf