Homs Residents condemn Shrine destruction

A group of the Syrian Transitional Government forces set fire to and destroyed a religious shrine in eastern Homs, causing widespread anger and condemnation among local residents.

13 November, 2025 18:43

NEWS DESK

ANHA correspondent reported that the shrine of Sheikh Hamid Ahmed bin Batta al-Shami, located in the Al-Mukharram area of eastern Homs countryside, was burned.

The burning of the shrine was reportedly ordered by the local military commander known as "Abu Maria," following the withdrawal of their forces from the Sheikh Hamid checkpoint and another checkpoint in Jubb Abbas in eastern Homs countryside.

The destruction of the religious site sparked strong public anger and condemnation. Locals said that "this act is part of repeated practices aimed at targeting religious shrines and sacred places, especially those belonging to the Alawite sect."

Residents also considered the incident "a clear violation of the right to freedom of religious belief and of the sanctity of religious sites, contrary to international charters and treaties that protect religious freedom."

ANHA