Syria (MNN) — Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa recently added his country to a U.S.-led coalition that seeks to rid the Middle East of Islamic State fighters.

“A year ago, the man who’s now the president of Syria was considered a terrorist and had a $10 million bounty on his head from the US government. This month, he was in the Oval Office meeting with the President of the United States,” The Voice of the Martyrs USA’s Todd Nettleton says, noting the situation’s irony.

“The big question is, how much has the Syrian president changed?”

Despite al-Sharaa’s declaration of religious freedom, believers remain skeptical.

“In public speeches to the international community, he has talked about a Syria where different religions live side by side in harmony,” Nettleton says.

However, “Our Syrian Christian brothers and sisters are hearing what’s being said in Arabic, and they’re concerned about the future. What they’re hearing from government troops is ‘Just wait. Wait till we get established, then we’re coming for you,’” he continues.

“We have seen attacks on the Druze minority. We have seen attacks on Alawites in the last year, and Christians in Syria are understandably concerned.”

Meanwhile, authorities extend a curfew in Homs following the weekend murder of a minority couple. Syria’s third-largest city is home to Sunni and Shiite Muslims, Alawites, and Christians.

Praise God for the faithful witness of Christians who have remained in the country despite hostile conditions.
(Photo, caption courtesy of VOM USA)

While a new bout of sectarian clashes keeps Syria on edge, the instability also presents an opportunity for Gospel outreach. “People are looking for something permanent,” Nettleton says.

“They’re looking for answers, and that can be a time when people come to Christ. Let’s pray for that.”

Pray for protection and boldness for Christians in Syria. Pray for continued revival and Gospel movement in areas affected by upheaval. Consider helping Syrian Christians tangibly through VOM USA.

 

Header image depicts US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, US Vice President JD Vance, U.S. President Donald Trump, and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in November 2025.  (Wikimedia Commons)