Suicide attack on Damascus church: At least 20 dead; Syria says IS group involved

A suicide attack at a Damascus church during Sunday mass killed at least 20 people and injured 52 others, according to AP citing first responders. Syria’s interior ministry has blamed the Islamic State group for the attack.

"A suicide attacker affiliated with the Daesh (IS) terrorist group entered the Saint Elias church in the Dwelaa area of the capital Damascus where he opened fire then blew himself up with an explosive belt," the ministry said.

According to an eyewitness, a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device inside the Mar Elias Church. Local media reports indicate that children may be among the victims.

Security personnel and emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene.

The attack marks a rare incident of its kind in Syria in recent years and comes at a time when Damascus, under de facto Islamist governance, is seeking to strengthen ties with minority communities.

Amid Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s ongoing efforts to consolidate control nationwide, concerns have grown over the potential resurgence of extremist sleeper cells in the conflict-ravaged country.