Suicide Bomber Kills 20 Worshippers at Greek Orthodox Church Near Damascus

A suicide bomber attacked a Greek Orthodox church on the outskirts of Syria’s capital, Damascus, during Sunday prayers, killing at least 20 people and injuring 52 others, according to state media and health officials.

The deadly explosion occurred at the Mar Elias Church in the Dweil’a district, where hundreds had gathered for worship. Syrian state news agency SANA, citing the Health Ministry, confirmed the casualties. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported a slightly lower death toll but acknowledged dozens wounded. Local reports indicated that children were among the victims.

Witnesses described scenes of terror as a gunman, his face concealed, entered the church, opened fire on worshippers, and then detonated an explosive vest. According to a priest at the scene, a second assailant fired shots at the church doors moments before the blast.

“This cowardly act goes against the civic values that bring us together,” Syrian Information Minister Hamza Mostafa said in a statement on social media. He labeled the incident a “terrorist attack” and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating extremist threats.

Though no group has claimed responsibility, the Interior Ministry blamed the Islamic State group, saying the assailant belonged to the extremist organization.

Father Fadi Ghattas, who was present during the attack, said, “People were praying safely under the eyes of God… I saw at least 20 people dead with my own eyes.” Another worshipper, Issam Nasr, recounted the horror: “We have never held a knife in our lives. All we ever carried were our prayers.”

The bombing is the deadliest attack on a Christian place of worship in Syria in recent years and comes amid growing concerns over extremist sleeper cells. It also highlights rising fears among religious minorities in a country still struggling with instability and sectarian violence.

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene as survivors fled the bloodied sanctuary in shock. Photos released by SANA showed pews scattered with debris and stained with blood.

The attack has raised urgent questions about the country’s security apparatus and the ability of President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s administration to protect vulnerable communities amid Syria’s ongoing unrest.