The new Islamist regime in Syria, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, has sparked fear among the Christian community due to increasing violent attacks and killings. The International Christian Concern’s president, Jeff King, stated that the situation for Christians in Syria has reached a critical point and may lead to a catastrophe. The “Eagles of Antioch,” a group of around 500 Christian volunteers, has emerged to defend their communities and religious identity. They operate within three primarily Christian neighborhoods in Damascus and watch over Christian areas from dusk to dawn, patrolling the streets and protecting Christian shrines from attack. Despite attacks by Islamic extremists, Danial Georgios, a member of the group, emphasized that any actions taken are in coordination with the governing authorities and will not challenge the sovereignty of Syria. HTS, the ruling group, has promised not to target religious minorities and has even allowed the Eagles of Antioch to keep weapons licensed and sanctioned by them in order to maintain security and harmony within Christian neighborhoods. However, King’s organization remains skeptical and warns that the bloodshed in Syria represents a concerning escalation. The new transitional constitution of Syria also includes language that states the President of the Republic’s religion must be Islam and that Islamic jurisprudence is the principal source of legislation.

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/christian-watch-group-rises-up-protect-community-amid-growing-violence-syria