Nearly 100 influential faith leaders have taken a stand, urging President Donald Trump to address the escalating violence against religious minorities in southern Syria. A letter sent ahead of Trump’s meeting with the new Syrian President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, highlights the dire situation faced by Christians, Druze, and other groups in the region. The letter expresses grave concern over continued brutality, stating, “These religious minorities face ongoing violence, death, displacement, starvation, and water and medical deprivation.”
Dede Laugesen, president and CEO of Save the Persecuted Christians, emphasized the urgency of the matter in her correspondence. She thanked the Trump administration for its recent commitment to providing humanitarian aid to southern Syria, but made it clear that more is needed. As winter approaches, the need for a secure humanitarian corridor from Hader to Suwayda is critical. Laugesen and the signatories represent “tens of millions of American Christians,” demonstrating the collective voice urging action.
The letter paints a bleak picture of the situation in Syria, where violence against religious minorities, particularly Christians and Druze, has reached alarming levels. Laugesen pointed out, “If it weren’t for Israel, tens of thousands of Christians and Druze would be murdered.” Such statements reveal a stark truth—many believe Israel plays a crucial role in protecting these communities amidst ongoing threats from jihadist groups.
The extreme measures being taken by Israel, including airstrikes against Syrian government forces, underscore the intensity of the crisis. Reports detail strikes that target military equipment heading toward the Druze-majority city of Sweida, reinforcing the urgent need for international attention to this humanitarian disaster.
Notable figures among the faith leaders who signed the letter include prominent evangelical leaders and politicians, such as former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Dr. Ben Carson and Family Research Council president Tony Perkins. Their involvement signifies a broad coalition concerned for the plight of persecuted Christians globally. The leaders commended Trump for previous efforts to combat Christian persecution in Nigeria, further linking their message to broader religious freedom issues worldwide.
Throughout the letter, there is a clear call for accountability from al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda and Islamic State fighter. The faith leaders urge that “if he expects to have normalized relations with the United States,” then he must genuinely prioritize the welfare of vulnerable populations in Syria. It reflects a cautious hope that under new leadership, the Syrian government may be willing to change its ways—something that Trump is poised to address directly.
The letter highlights a significant moment in the administration’s foreign policy direction, where international relations intersect with the protection of religious minorities. It also serves as a reminder that the stakes are high; the lives of countless individuals depend on the actions of leaders in the U.S. and abroad. In a global landscape fraught with challenges, the faith leaders’ plea embodies the urgent call for action in the face of persecution.
Ultimately, the meeting between Trump and al-Sharaa symbolizes more than diplomatic dialogue; it represents an opportunity to forge a new path for the protection of Christians and other minorities suffering in silence in Syria. As Laugesen concluded, “We stand ready to support your efforts and pray for fruitful discussions.” The faith community’s commitment reflects a powerful bond that seeks to uplift those in desperate need during the unfolding crisis.
"*" indicates required fields
