Damascus: A suicide bomber who detonated an explosive device at a church on the outskirts of Damascus on Sunday was identified as a member of the Islamic State group, according to Syria's interior minister. The devastating attack resulted in the deaths of at least 22 individuals and left 52 others injured, as reported by the nation's health ministry.
According to France24.com, the interior ministry confirmed the assailant's affiliation with the Daesh (IS) terrorist group, stating that the attacker infiltrated the Saint Elias church, opened fire, and subsequently detonated an explosive belt. The attack has been described by Syria's foreign ministry as a "desperate attempt to undermine national coexistence and destabilize the country."
As the newly appointed President Ahmad al-Sharaa struggles to consolidate power across Syria, there are growing concerns about the presence of extremist sleeper cells within the nation, which has been ravaged by years of conflict.
The international community has widely condemned the attack, marking the first significant assault in Damascus since Islamist-led forces ousted former ruler Bashar al-Assad in December. The United Nations special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, expressed "outrage at this heinous crime" and has called for a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
US special envoy Tom Barrack affirmed Washington's support for Syria in its fight against forces attempting to instill instability and fear both in Syria and the broader region. Meanwhile, Turkey, which maintains close relations with the new Syrian authorities, expressed confidence that Syrians would remain united in their battle against terrorist organizations sowing chaos.
France's foreign ministry reiterated its commitment to facilitating a transition in Syria that ensures all Syrians, irrespective of their religion, can live peacefully in a free, united, pluralistic, prosperous, stable, and sovereign country.
Additionally, Egypt's Al-Azhar, a prominent Sunni Islamic institution, condemned the attack as a "blatant assault on the right to life" and worship. A statement from the ministry in Ankara expressed trust in the unity of Syrians in their struggle against terrorism.
Visuals from the scene, streamed by Syria's civil defense team, the White Helmets, revealed the extent of the destruction within the church, highlighting a bloodied floor, shattered pews, and scattered masonry, painting a grim picture of the aftermath of the attack.