In response to escalating violence in Syria, a group of Christian volunteers has organized to protect their communities. The group, Eagles of Antioch, consists of volunteers who stand watch over Christian neighborhoods in Damascus, safeguarding shrines, icons, and churches from potential attacks.
Danial Georgios spoke to Fox News about the Eagles of Antioch and their role in the region. Gerogios stated: “We want to be represented. We no longer accept the idea of being marginalized or treated like a second-class citizen…We want to internally be able to police our area.”
Georgios emphasized that while the group works to protect Christian neighborhoods, the group does so under the HTS government and does not seek to challenge Syria’s sovereignty or power in the region.
The recent surge in violence, particularly in the coastal regions of Latakia and Tartus, has resulted in significant civilian casualties. Reports indicate that over 1,300 people, mostly civilians, were killed in less than 72 hours during clashes between Assad loyalists and opposition forces.
The fall of the Assad regime in December 2024 has led to a precarious environment for religious minorities. The bloodshed that unfolded from March 6-10 in Latakia and Tartous represents a frightening escalation, with reports indicating between four and a dozen Christians among the casualties.
The international community remains concerned about the safety of religious minorities in Syria. Advocacy groups have warned that misleading reports about the ‘slaughter of Christians’ could endanger Syrian believers.
“We want to be represented, and we no longer accept the idea of being marginalized or treated like second-class citizens. We look at ourselves that we are equal to the Muslim, the Alawite and every single Syrian citizen,” Georgios went on to add.
The formation of groups like the Eagles of Antioch underscores the resilience and determination of Syrian Christians to protect their heritage and communities amid ongoing turmoil.
