Suicide attack in Syria: At least 15 dead as powerful blast rocks Damascus church; medical aid rushed

A suicide attack at a Damascus church during Sunday mass left at least 15 dead, AP reported citing first responders.

According to an eyewitness, a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device inside the Mar Elias Church. Local media reports indicate that children may be among the victims.

Security personnel and emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene.

The attack marks a rare incident of its kind in Syria in recent years and comes at a time when Damascus, under de facto Islamist governance, is seeking to strengthen ties with minority communities.

Amid Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s ongoing efforts to consolidate control nationwide, concerns have grown over the potential resurgence of extremist sleeper cells in the conflict-ravaged country.