Aramaic Town Fears Future Amid Rising Tensions in Syria

MAALOULA, Syria (AP) — The ancient town of Maaloula, known for being one of the last places where the biblical language of Aramaic is still spoken, is facing an uncertain future. Following the fall of former President Bashar Assad last year, residents of this historic Christian-majority community are expressing concerns about their safety amid reports of looting and harassment.

On a frigid Sunday morning, church bells rang out, but the once-thriving streets of Maaloula felt eerily empty. Many families have fled, leaving the community to grapple with its cultural and religious identity. The town is home to Syria’s two oldest active monasteries, and its inhabitants are worried that the heritage of their unique culture is under threat.

Father Jalal Ghazal, a local priest, described the chilling moments when he woke to find wine bottles hurled from the balconies of clergy housing in January. “At first, I feared the kind of targeted killing we witnessed during the civil war,” he said, recalling the pervasive violence that gripped the area following the insurgent offensive. Instead, he found a scene of vandalism targeting the local Christian community.

Maaloula, situated about 40 miles northeast of Damascus, has a long history of being a haven for Christians, who felt increasingly vulnerable during the 13-year civil conflict. The situation worsened in 2013 when al-Qaida-linked militants captured the town, prompting approximately two-thirds of its 3,300 residents to flee. During that time, 12 nuns were abducted, creating a global outcry that highlighted the plight of minorities in Syria.

In the aftermath of the civil war, the Christian community continued to feel the repercussions of their perceived ties to Assad, who portrayed himself as a protector of minorities. As a result, a letter was sent to Syria’s new Islamist government, urging protection for Maaloula’s Christians, underscoring their determination: “We want the guaranteed safe return of the Christians of Maaloula. Maaloula is a red line. We will not let anyone encroach on its culture, heritage, and sanctities.”

Despite their efforts, emotions remain high, and Father Ghazal noted that nothing has changed. There are growing fears that the vigilante actions of returning individuals associated with past conflicts could further endanger the community.

No police presence has been noted recently in the town, and locals report that weapons from the police station were looted in the chaos following Assad’s downfall. This absence of security has left residents feeling abandoned and vulnerable.

Sameera Thabet, a resident, recounted fleeing to the capital only to return the following day after hearing news of looting in their homes. “We were living in fear, wondering if we were going to get slaughtered again,” she said. The once-vibrant religious symbols around the area now bear the physical toll of war, with bullet holes marring historic structures.

As residents unite to preserve their heritage, church officials have requested more security from the new government. They hope that initiatives will be implemented to sustain the teaching of Aramaic and promote cultural traditions, targeting younger generations to ensure the language’s survival. “The moment a child is born, the Aramaic language should be spoken at home,” said Father Fadi Bargeel of Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church, reflecting on the importance of reinvigorating their cultural communication.

Despite the fears gripping the community, remaining residents strive to maintain normalcy. Recently decorated Christmas trees still stand in town squares, while children play in the streets. Thabet holds onto hope, stating, “God who put us on this land will protect us.”