As another conflict brews in Syria, ICR workers already saw how difficult life there was. Another war will only make things worse.

A recent study by the Central Bureau of Statistics in Syria showed that most Syrians live on one meal per day. According to the study, food security in Syria has deteriorated dramatically. The average cost of living in Syria is 30 times the minimum wage, which means the average salary can provide food for just one day.

ICR partners in Syria say this leads to great suffering, including early marriage and no education for children who are pulled out of school to work.

In August, another earthquake shook the same area where a February 2023 earthquake devastated the area. This time, there was almost no damage to buildings, but it still scared residents who remembered the previous earthquake. Continue to pray for those who are still assisting earthquake-affected regions.

ICR partners report that Islamist militias are in control of much of northwest Syria. Here, they can enforce Islamist ideology. Many young people have fled the region. They are sending money back home, but those who are left behind are quite lonely. They have lost the family cohesion that is essential in Syrian culture.

Christians who have converted from Islam experience the most persecution. They are mainly persecuted by their families, but anyone who openly shares their faith will experience trouble. Officially, the government promises to help all, regardless of religion, but residents can choose who receives government assistance. And in some places, there is virtually no Christian presence after ISIS drove Christians out through high taxes and restrictions on religious practice.

PRAY:

Pray for Syrians who are suffering.

Pray that our brothers and sisters can be a light in this dark place.

Pray that the Christian presence in Syria will be preserved.

Pray that believers can be the presence of Christ to the lonely.