Syrian Jews Return to Ancient Jobar Synagogue After Assad's Fall

The 3,000-year-old synagogue, damaged during Syria's civil war, symbolizes the resilience of the country's dwindling Jewish community.

The Jobar Synagogue, one of the world's oldest, was partially destroyed during Syria's 13-year civil war but is now accessible following the overthrow of Bashar Assad in December.
Syria's Jewish population has dwindled to just nine people, with the community fearing it will disappear entirely within a few years.
The synagogue, also known as the Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue, dates back to 720 BCE and holds deep historical and religious significance for Jews worldwide.
Bakhour Chamntoub, head of Syria's Jewish community, expressed hope for rebuilding the synagogue and shared that international Jewish groups have offered support for its restoration.
Under the new leadership of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, promises of religious freedom have been made, though sectarian tensions persist in the region.