Charity Aid to the Church in Need, Ireland – which supports thousands of vulnerable minority Christian communities in 140 countries – is making an urgent appeal for prayer and support for the Christian community and all residents of Aleppo, Syria, who are facing a worsening humanitarian crisis.

It comes following the recent occupation of the city by anti-government rebel groups, some of whom have clear jihadist orientations. Although these groups have promised respect, the situation remains uncertain and extremely insecure for the contested areas.

The counteroffensive by the Syrian army has brought devastating airstrikes on the city. Approximately 25,000 Christians remain in Aleppo, along with thousands of others trapped in a city once again struggling to survive, haunted by the ghosts of over a decade of war.

“Basic services are paralyzed, with only two hospitals operating for critical cases. Food supplies are insufficient, prices have soared, and the population faces the dual threat of bombings and insecurity on the ground,” explained Marielle Boutros, ACN project manager for Syria.

Financial help for 325 elderly in Aleppo, from August 2023 to July 2024

Religious congregations and the city’s bishops are staying in Aleppo to serve their people, and the local Church is working tirelessly to console and assist the most vulnerable. However, the situation remains critical, and fears for safety are growing among the residents.

“There is a constant climate of fear. People are trapped; no one can enter or leave the city. An Armenian doctor was killed by a sniper, and a bus trying to leave for Hassake was also attacked,” Ms. Boutros said. “Basic services have collapsed: schools are not operating, and banks have stopped functioning, leaving people without access to their salaries.”

Pastoral and social services offered by priests and sisters in Aleppo

ACN is actively responding to this crisis through emergency aid projects and is appealing for €350,000 to fund:

• Medical assistance to support hospitals treating critical cases and elderly and chronically ill patients,
• Aid for displaced people, providing food, mattresses, and blankets to displaced families both in Aleppo and other areas,
• Alternative solar and electrical energy,
• Support for Christian schools in Aleppo.

According to Philipp Ozores, Secretary General of ACN International, “People are deeply frightened. The airstrikes, along with the strict control of the rebel factions that have taken the city, have turned survival into a daily struggle. This is a moment for unity and action. ACN urges the Christian community around the world to unite in prayer for Aleppo, asking for peace, protection, and hope for all citizens.”

Michael Kelly, Director of Public Affairs for ACN Ireland warned that anxiety is spreading among the small Christian community. “Some of the rebel groups are known for imposing strict interpretations of Islamic law in areas under their control.

“Around 25,000 Christians are living in Aleppo and now face an uncertain and challenging future. Our project partners are appealing for support and prayers in this very difficult moment. Let us unite in prayer for peace, protection, and hope for all citizens of Aleppo,” Mr. Kelly said.