European Syriac Cross delegation continues visit to Holeb and Edleb

27/09/2026

HOLEB (ALEPPO), Syria — A European delegation from the Syriac Cross Foundation for Care and Development conducted several visits in Syria, traveling through the provinces of Edleb (Idlib) and Holeb (Aleppo) to assess local needs and discuss cultural, social and humanitarian initiatives with church representatives and community figures.

The delegation included Sarah Afram, head of the Syriac Cross Foundation in Belgium, and Sandra Korteweg, head of Schlomo Nederland, and the Foundation’s Syrian administration, including country head Malek Hanna and official Miray Tawaifi.

In Edleb, the delegation visited the villages of Quneia and Yaqubieh, where it met Father Khokhaz Masrob, pastor of St. Joseph’s Latin Church in Quneia, and Father Louay Basharat in Yaqubieh.

Discussions focused on the conditions residents endured during years of war and siege, as well as the challenges facing local communities, particularly Christians. The meetings also addressed the current situation and efforts by residents and churches to restore normal life as families gradually return to their villages and homes.

The return of basic services and institutions has encouraged additional families to resettle in the area. According to the Syriac Cross Foundation, at least 350 families have returned to the region so far.

In Holeb, the delegation met Bishop Mor Hanna Jallouf, the Apostolic Vicar of the Latin Church in Syria, followed by a meeting with Bishop Mor Boutros Kassis, Archbishop of the Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Aleppo.

The delegation also met Archbishop Mor Joseph Tobji, the Syriac Maronite Archbishop of Aleppo, as well as members of the archdiocese’s singing committee.

The discussions in Holeb centered on gaps in humanitarian and medical assistance, including access to medicines, surgical procedures and treatment for cancer patients. Participants also discussed the possibility of developing joint projects with churches aimed at supporting Christian communities and strengthening cooperation among them.

The delegation’s meetings continued with the social service of the Greek (Rûm) Orthodox community, where it met Dr. Elias Farah, a member of the diocesan council. Discussions addressed educational activities, community centers and regular gatherings serving local Christians.

The delegation also met Dr. Ahmad Ghandour, who provided an overview of hospitals and the medical services they offer, as well as broader needs in the health sector.

The visit forms part of the Syriac Cross Foundation’s broader efforts to assess conditions on the ground, engage with local churches and communities, and identify areas where humanitarian, social, cultural and heritage initiatives could provide practical support.