VIDEO: More than 20 casualties as Daesh bomber targets church in Damascus

A suicide bomber affiliated with the Daesh terrorist group attacked Mar Elias Church in the Dweilaa neighborhood of Damascus on Sunday, according to a statement from Syria’s Ministry of Interior.

The attacker reportedly entered the church, opened fire, and then detonated an explosive vest, causing significant damage and casualties. Ambulances were seen transporting victims from the scene.

The exact number of casualties remains unclear; however, initial reports indicate that more than 20 people were killed or injured.

Earlier, Syria’s Minister of Information, Dr. Hamzah al-Mustafa, strongly condemned what he described as a cowardly terrorist act targeting the church.

He extended his deepest condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing that such an attack stands in stark contrast to the values of citizenship that unite all Syrians.

“We, as Syrians, affirm the importance of national unity and civil peace,” he said. “We call for strengthening the bonds of brotherhood among all segments of society.”

Dr. al-Mustafa reaffirmed the state’s commitment to equal citizenship, national stability, and fighting criminal organizations. He pledged that all necessary efforts will be made to protect society and prevent future threats to public safety.