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“All my relatives and the rest of the Greeks are locked in their homes. They do not communicate with anyone, not even with each other,” says a Greek-Syrian living in Aleppo
The dramatic developments in Syria have brought the country into a state of absolute chaos, as rebels and jihadists have seized almost all major cities. The fighting continues with unabated intensity, while fear and uncertainty prevail, with thousands of citizens trapped in the vortex of war.
The small Greek community in Syria is facing an unprecedented crisis. Many Greeks, who have lived and worked in the country for decades, have isolated themselves in their homes, following the instructions of the Patriarchate of Antioch and the Greek Embassy. The authorities have recommended that they avoid all travel and remain in safe places, as the situation on the streets is extremely dangerous.
They themselves live in anguish, while they have cut off all types of communication, even through social networks, so as not to expose their location or attract attention. Despite the possibility of evacuation, most say they are determined to remain in the country, considering that being removed from their homes and communities is more dangerous than staying.
Testimony of a Greek-Syrian: “They live locked in their homes”
D.K., a Greek-Syrian who lives in Greece and has relatives in Aleppo, describes the situation in the darkest colors:
“All my relatives and the rest of the Greeks in Aleppo are locked in their homes. They do not communicate with anyone, not even with each other. They live in a state of absolute fear, waiting for developments. The situation is dramatic and we do not know what will happen tomorrow,” he says characteristically.
Until a few days ago, 50 families (about 150 people) lived in Aleppo and 15 in Damascus.
His testimony reveals the harsh reality experienced by the Greek community, which has been cut off from the rest of the world and is watching the development of the situation with horror.
The Patriarchate of Antioch is in constant contact with the Greeks of Syria, providing guidance and support wherever possible. However, limited coordination capabilities, due to the risk in conflict areas, make it difficult to protect the community.
The Greek Embassy is closely monitoring developments, and has already drawn up contingency plans in case the situation deteriorates further. Anxiety for the Greeks in Syria remains at its peak, with families in Greece trying to contact them, often without success.