AANES condemns mosque bombing in Homs
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) strongly condemned on Friday the bombing that targeted a mosque in the city of Homs, central Syria, describing the attack as a grave crime against civilians and social peace.
An improvised explosive device detonated inside the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque in the Wadi al-Dhahab neighborhood, killing eight people and injuring 21 others, according to initial figures released by security and medical sources. Several of the wounded remain in critical condition, raising the possibility that the death toll may increase.
In an official statement, AANES said: “We condemn in the strongest terms the brutal and criminal attack that targeted the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque in the Wadi al-Dhahab neighborhood of Homs province, which led to the killing and injury of dozens of innocent civilians, in a crime that violates human and moral values and targets the security and safety of society.”
The statement said the bombing comes amid what it described as a dangerous climate fueled by hate speech and incitement, warning that such rhetoric pushes communities toward confrontation rather than unity. “This sinful act turns places of worship into arenas of violence in an attempt to undermine civil peace and sow fear and division among Syrians,” AANES added.
The Autonomous Administration stressed that attacks on religious sites represent a serious threat to coexistence and communal stability, particularly at a time when Syrians continue to face prolonged political and security challenges.
In its statement, AANES reiterated its call for a comprehensive national project to address the roots of violence and instability. “In light of Syria’s ongoing crisis, the country is in urgent need of an inclusive national project based on building a democratic, decentralized Syria founded on justice and equal citizenship, guaranteeing the rights of all religious and ethnic components without exclusion or discrimination,” the statement said.
AANES emphasized that protecting civilians and places of worship is a national and humanitarian responsibility. It called for calming public discourse and holding perpetrators and inciters accountable without exception.
“Our national and humanitarian responsibility requires de-escalating rhetoric, safeguarding civilians and houses of worship, and holding accountable all those responsible and those who incite violence,” the statement said, adding that “Syria cannot be rebuilt through hatred and violence, but through trust, safety, and the consolidation of a culture of coexistence and mutual respect among all its people.”