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Syrian state media reported a suicide attack on a church in Damascus on Sunday, causing casualties as first responders evacuated victims from the scene.
The explosion took place at Mar Elias Church in the Dwel’a district, according to Syrian state television. The Syrian Civil Defense confirmed civilian casualties but did not specify the number..
Syria's health ministry said the attack on Elias Church in Damascus killed 20 people, state media reported, raising an earlier civil defence toll of 15 dead.
"The number of victims in the terrorist attack that targeted the Saint Elias church in the Dwelaa area of Damascus has risen to 20 dead and 52 wounded," said a health ministry statement carried by state news agency SANA.
Meanwhile, the Syrian Interior Ministry said in a post suicide bomber from Daesh terrorist group opened fire inside Mar Elias Church in Damascus before blowing himself up. .
“A suicide attacker detonated an explosive belt inside Saint Elias Church in the Dwelaa area of Damascus,” state TV reported, adding that security forces had cordoned off the area.
State news agency SANA reported unspecified casualties. AFP correspondents at the site observed significant damage to the church, including shattered wooden fittings and pews, fallen icons, and pools of blood.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Details to follow...
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