Syrian Orthodox Patriarch survives suicide-bombing attack

June 20, 2016

Syrian Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius Efrem II Karim of Damascus survived an attack by a suicide bomber on June 19, but at least four people (including the bomber) were killed by the explosion.

The attack took place as the Syrian prelate was leading a remembrance ceremony for the victims of the genocidal Turkish campaign against Armenian and Assyrian Christians. The bomb exploded just outside the church in Qamishi, Syria, where the Patriarch blessed a memorial for the genocide victims. 

Responsibility for the attack has not yet been established, but suspicions point toward the Islamic State.

 

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Further information:

• Qamishli, Syrian Orthodox Patriarch Ephrem II escapes a suicide attack (AsiaNews)