Orthodox priest narrowly escapes being shot in attack on Christian village in Syria

An Orthodox priest narrowly escaped being shot during a violent incident in the Christian village of Al-Suqaylabiyah in western Syria, according to reports received by Aid to the Church in Need.

The violence began on the night of October 3 following an altercation between young people from Al-Suqaylabiyah and the neighboring village of Al-Qalaa. Local sources told Aid to the Church in Need that armed men from Al-Qalaa allegedly entered Al-Suqaylabiyah, firing at houses and damaging property. An unnamed Orthodox priest reported that shots were fired at him and his vehicle, and a bullet narrowly missed him.

Father Fadi Sankari, an Orthodox priest from Al-Suqaylabiyah, issued a message calling for security, justice, and accountability. He urged the local population to remain united and requested protection for the community while advising against further violence.