Christians arbitrarily detained in Syria denied Bible access, forced to observe Ramadan, CSI report

A Christian Solidarity International report presented to the UN alleges that Christians and other minorities in Syria are arbitrarily detained by the transitional government, denied access to Bibles, forced to observe Ramadan, and subjected to extortion. The report cites cases such as former Sadad mayor Suleiman Khalil, detained since February 2025 without charge, and highlights a pattern of abuse against religious minorities.

A report by Christian Solidarity International (CSI), presented to the UN, alleges that Christians and other minority groups in Syria are being arbitrarily detained by the transitional government, often motivated by ethnic or religious identity. Detainees are reportedly denied access to Bibles and forced to observe Ramadan. The report highlights the case of Suleiman Khalil, former mayor of Sadad, detained since February 2025 without charge or legal recourse. CSI notes that the 'settlement' system for former regime members has been misused, with thousands still detained without trial. The report also documents extortion of families, abduction of women and girls, and cases of journalists detained for criticizing sectarian attacks. The Syrian government has confirmed detaining 3,500 former regime military personnel but denies broader abuses. The report cites violations of Syria's constitution and international human rights law.