Bishop A. Elias Zaidan has called for prayers and peace in Syria following a suicide bombing at the Antiochian Church of St. Elias in Damascus, which resulted in the deaths of at least 22 people and injured many others. The attack occurred on Sunday, highlighting ongoing sectarian violence in the region.

As chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace, Bishop Zaidan emphasized the importance of international vigilance to protect religious minorities in Syria, including Christians and Alawites. He stated that "sectarian violence, of whatever religious or ideological type, if not stopped, will derail Syria’s full integration into the community of nations."

Bishop Zaidan also stressed the need for a political transition that benefits all Syrians. He urged collaboration with those committed to peace and security in Syria, saying: “We stand in solidarity with the Antiochian Church in Syria during this difficult time.”