Amid escalating conflict in Syria and the advance of armed insurgents on Aleppo, Metropolitan Ephraim of the Antiochian Orthodox Church has pledged to remain with his flock in the besieged city. In a pastoral message released on November 30, 2024, he expressed his readiness to support Christians who have stayed in Aleppo despite the dire circumstances.

Since late November, a coalition of rebel groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched a large-scale offensive in northwestern Syria. By capturing strategic locations, including a military base and significant portions of Aleppo, the opposition has cut the city off from Damascus. This marks the most significant escalation in the region since 2016.

According to the press office of the Antiochian Patriarchate, Metropolitan Ephraim urged residents to stay in their homes, remain calm, and devote time to prayer. He emphasized that church services would continue as circumstances permit.

“We remain here with our flock under any circumstances—whether challenging or joyous. This is our pastoral mission, and we will stay faithful to it,” the Metropolitan declared.
Aleppo, home to one of Syria’s largest Christian populations, has suffered greatly during the years of war. While the number of Christians in the city has sharply declined, many still choose to stay in their homes.

The Metropolitan also called for prayers for those forced to flee the city, hoping they would reach safety. In these challenging times, he noted, faith and prayer provide believers with hope and strength to endure life’s trials