Pope Francis urges unity after Syrian rebels topple regime
Pope Francis appealed on Wednesday to Syrian rebels who overthrew the regime of President Bashar al-Assad. He urged the stabilization of the country's situation and governance in a manner that aims for national unity.
During a weekly audience in Vatican City, Pope Francis shared his concern about the current situation in Syria, expressing his hope for "a political solution may be reached that, without further conflicts or divisions, responsibly promotes the stability and unity of the country."
In his first public statements on Syria since the end of al-Assad's rule, the Pope also called on the country's diverse religious groups to "may walk together in friendship and mutual respect for the good of the nation."
The Pope on religious coexistence
Pope Francis prayed for the Syrian people, seeking the Virgin Mary's intercession so that they "may live in peace and security in their beloved land." He also encouraged harmony among different religions, highlighting the need for friendship and mutual respect to support a nation long afflicted by war.
Muslims make up about 90 per cent of Syria's population. Christians have a historical presence in the country but constitute a small minority. The Vatican estimates that among the population of about 28 million people, there are about 300,000 Catholics.
Rebellion in Syria
Syrian rebels announced on Sunday the liberation of Damascus and the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad after his 24-year rule. The rebels also announced the release of all prisoners who were captured even for the slightest opposition to the dictator's authority.
The action involved two organizations: HTS, or Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an Islamist group led by Abu Muhammad al-Julani, and the Syrian National Army.
Abu Muhammad al-Julani previously fought in the ranks of Al-Qaeda, now renounces radicalism, declares a departure from jihadism, and respect for minority rights. HTS is still classified as a terrorist group by the US, EU, and Turkey.
