By Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia
Undoubtedly, the Middle East has historically and culturally been the cradle of the three great monotheistic religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Their coexistence has traditionally been based on mutual respect and the promotion of shared values, with a central focus on the dignity and sanctity of human life.
Today, however, this historical harmony has been overshadowed by violence, war, and the erosion of human rights, with religious freedom suffering irreparable harm. One cannot help but wonder how the democratic societies of the West—which openly proclaim their commitment to defending democracy—can remain indifferent and silent in the face of the relentless persecution of religious minorities in Syria and other parts of the Middle East.
Innocent people are being sacrificed on the altar of geopolitical interests. Children, women, and civilians become the new martyrs of our time each day. As an Orthodox bishop, I feel a profound responsibility not to remain silent—and never to remain silent—in the face of any persecution afflicting the Middle East. Because what we are witnessing is not merely waves of refugees, but the systematic annihilation of entire religious minorities, which constitute an integral part of the identity and cultural heritage of this troubled corner of the world.
Each day, we become silent witnesses to this atrocity. We see the ancient Christian Patriarchates under threat, and, most tragically, we see hope fading in the eyes of the youth. The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch, the Syriac-Jacobite Patriarchate, the Maronite Christians, the Greek Catholics (Uniates), the Armenian Christians, as well as Muslim minorities such as the Alevis, are in urgent need of our attention and protection. There can be no Middle East without the presence of Christians!
European institutions and international organizations must act without delay. Inaction is no longer an option. The new Islamic regime established in Syria following the overthrow of Assad has fostered an atmosphere of oppression and religious fanaticism, fueling ongoing hostilities and systematic persecution. The Christian communities that have endured for centuries in these regions now stand on the brink of extinction.
It is therefore imperative that the international community takes immediate steps to prevent this catastrophe, to unequivocally condemn all forms of religious persecution, and to work actively toward the restoration of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among all religious traditions in suffering Syria.
Of course, every act of terrorism must be condemned, regardless of its origin. Violence, in any form, can never be justified or considered a solution to any problem or challenge. At the same time, the right to life and religious freedom is a fundamental principle not only in the Biblical tradition but also in the Qur’an, even though the two traditions differ in the values they uphold. Therefore, the protection and defense of these rights is both urgent and essential.
The latest wave of persecution against Christians in Syria clearly reveals the fear and insecurity they face daily. They cannot speak out, let alone protest. That is why we must become their mouth and their voice. And if we truly believe in the teaching of the Church and the commandments of our Lord, let us never forget His words: “If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you” (John 15:20) and “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5,9).
* The article was originally published in the newspaper “Kathimerini”
