A suicide bombing at Mar Elias Church in Damascus resulted in at least 15 fatalities and significant destruction within the church. Reports indicate that the attacker, associated with the Islamic State, detonated an explosive vest after entering the church and opening fire. This incident, marking the first suicide bombing in Damascus since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, raises concerns over security in the region amid ongoing violence. Witnesses reported horrific scenes, with bloodied floors and shattered pews. The bombing emphasizes the precarious situation for minorities in Syria as political tensions continue to simmer.
"A suicide attacker detonates an explosive belt inside the Saint Elias church in the Dwelaa area of Damascus," state TV reported.
At least 15 people were killed, with the suicide bomber said to have been a member of the 'Islamic State.'
According to the Syrian Interior Ministry, the bomber entered the church, opened fire and then detonated an explosive vest.
The incident marks the first suicide bombing inside Damascus since Bashar al-Assad was toppled by an Islamist-led rebel insurgency in December.
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