A deadly suicide bombing struck a church in Syria’s capital, Damascus, on Sunday, killing at least 20 people and injuring dozens more. The attack happened at Mar Elias Church in the Dweila neighborhood, according to Syrian health officials and security sources.

First Suicide Bombing Since Assad's Fall

This was the first suicide bombing in Damascus since President Bashar al-Assad was overthrown in December by an Islamist-led rebel uprising. Syria’s Interior Ministry confirmed that the attacker belonged to the Islamic State group, also known as Daesh.

In a statement, the ministry said, “A suicide attacker affiliated with the Daesh (IS) terrorist group entered the Saint Elias church… opened fire then blew himself up with an explosive belt.”

Attack Carried Out by Two Men

A security official, who spoke anonymously to Reuters, revealed that two people were involved in the operation, including the suicide bomber. Another official told Reuters that Islamic State had previously attempted to attack churches in Syria but failed. This was the first successful church bombing since Assad’s removal.

Syria’s state news agency, SANA, quoted the health ministry saying 52 people were also injured in the explosion.

Scenes of Horror Inside the Church

The White Helmets, Syria’s civil defense group, livestreamed the aftermath of the attack. The video showed a blood-covered church floor, broken pews, and rubble scattered inside the building.

President Vows to Protect Minorities

Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led the campaign to remove Assad and took office in January, has promised to protect minority groups. He has repeatedly stated his commitment to keeping religious communities safe during the transition period.

International Condemnation

The Greek government strongly condemned the bombing. In a statement, the Greek foreign ministry said, “We unequivocally condemn the abhorrent terrorist suicide bombing at the Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Damascus, Syria.”

It also urged Syrian authorities to act quickly. “We demand that the Syrian transitional authorities take immediate action to hold those involved accountable and implement measures to guarantee the safety of Christian communities and all religious groups, allowing them to live without fear.”

Islamic State’s History of Targeting Minorities

The Islamic State has a long history of attacking religious minorities in Syria. One of the worst attacks happened in 2016 when the group bombed Shiite pilgrims in Sayeda Zainab during Assad’s presidency.

Ongoing Threat Despite IS Defeat

This latest attack shows that Islamic State still poses a danger, even though it no longer controls territory in Syria. The bombing highlights how the group continues to take advantage of security weaknesses, despite years of global counterterrorism operations.