Damascus church attack sparks regional condemnation over terrorism, escalation

People attend a memorial ceremony at the Mar Elias Church in Damascus, Syria, on June 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Countries in the Middle East have strongly condemned a suicide bombing Sunday evening at a church in the Syrian capital Damascus, decrying it as an act of terrorism and warning of its potential to inflame regional tensions.

The blast, which struck during prayers, killed at least 25 people and wounded over 60 others. Syria's interior authorities on Monday said they had arrested several suspects involved in the attack, claiming they were affiliated with the Islamic State group, which has not yet claimed responsibility.

In a statement, the Arab League (AL) denounced "the unprecedented terrorist attack," voicing concerns that the latest development would endanger the security and stability in Syria.

The AL reaffirmed solidarity with the Syrian interim government and its people, adding that it backs the peaceful transitional path that will maintain the Syrian people's rights and achieve their ambitions for stability and development.

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry also strongly condemned the attack, reiterating its firm rejection of all forms of violence, terrorism, and extremism.

In an official statement, the ministry emphasized the urgent need to intensify both regional and international efforts to eradicate terrorism and counter criminal acts aimed at undermining security and stability.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan denounced the assault on the Damascus church as a "despicable" act that threatens regional stability. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Erdogan extended his condolences to the victims' families, the Syrian interim authorities, and the Syrian people.

He stressed that Türkiye would not allow Syria "to be dragged into a new environment of instability by proxy terrorist groups," reaffirming his country's solidarity with its neighbor in the ongoing fight against terrorism.

In a statement released by the state-run National News Agency, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam strongly condemned the "heinous terrorist suicide bombing" as a "despicable criminal act" aimed at destabilizing Syria.

He reaffirmed the Lebanese government's full solidarity with Syria in its efforts to maintain security and stability, expressing Lebanon's readiness to coordinate on all fronts to strengthen security and combat terrorism.