More than 60 faithful were also injured in the attack, which would be the first in the Syrian capital since the rebel groups spoke of former President Bashar al-Assad in December, ending more than a decade of civil war.
A shooter opened fire inside the Greek church of St. Elias Orthodox in the Dweila district before exploding an explosive vest, according to the media.
Photos and videos of the interior of the church showed an altar and highly damaged benches covered with broken glass.
UN chiefs demand responsibility
UN Secretary General António Guterres Firmly condemned the attack, expressing his biggest condolences to the families of people killed and wishing rapid recovery to the injured.
“” All the authors of terrorism must be held responsible“Stéphane Dujarric, his spokesperson, said Monday.
Mr. Guterres noted that the Syrian interim authorities had attributed the attack to the terrorist group, ISIL – also known as Da’esh – on the basis of preliminary surveys, and called for an in -depth and impartial investigation.
“” The secretary general reaffirms the United Nations commitment to support the Syrian people in their quest for peace, dignity and justice“Added Mr. Dujarric.
Call to justice
UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen echo The conviction, denouncing the bombing “in the strongest possible terms”.
He urged the authorities to investigate the attack and guarantee responsibility.
He also called for unity in the rejection of terrorism, extremism, incitement and targeting of any community in Syria, which was a plot of different confessions throughout its history.
No room for extremism
Adam Abdelmoula, the resident and humanitarian coordinator of the United Nations in Syria, describe The incident as a “deliberate attack on a place of worship” and stressed that he had targeted civilians, including women and children, gathered in prayer.
“” There is no room for violence and extremism“He said, urging solidarity while Syria is heading for recovery and reconciliation.
Mr. Abdelmoula reiterated continuous support from the UN to the Syrian people and called on all possible measures to take to protect civilians, prevent future attacks and translate those responsible.
Publicado anteriormente en Almouwatin.
