"Christians in Damascus are feeling a mix of hope and fear as they approach Christmas under the transitional government in Syria. Footage, captured on Saturday evening, shows adorned districts of Old City in Damascus, including Bab Sharqi, Straight Street and Al Qassa.  Wael Kasouha highlighted a common feeling of uncertainty, saying, "Christmas this year is somehow odd with a pang of grief. We live here in this country with a sense of vagueness wrapped in the holiday and Christians in general."   "We hope that the role of Christians, especially during modern history, will be remembered by all Syrians. Fares Al Khoury, for instance, [one of the founders of the Syrian Arab Republic] had confronted the whole world [colonial powers]," he added. Meanwhile, Nabila Baroud voiced grave concern against ISIS, saying, "Even though I am not a Christian or Muslim, ISIS and extremism still terrify me. But the feeling that Jesus Christ is with us brings me serenity, and we appeal to Christ to pray for Syria." In June, a tragic suicide bombing occurred at St Elias Church, located in the Al Dwailah neighbourhood of central Damascus. The final tally from the Transitional Ministry of Health reports that 25 people lost their lives and 63 others were injured as a result of the attack. In December 2024, a transitional government led by the HTS seized power in Syria. Al-Sharaa was then appointed as interim president, promising an inclusive government."