Christians living in the Euphrates Canton of North-East Syria announced on Wednesday that they cancelled this year's Christmas celebrations. A press statement made at the Free Women's Square in Kobanê was read by Ceger Şukrî, Monk of El Ixuwe Church. The statement drew attention to the ongoing attacks and the suffering in the region and said that this year Christmas will only be commemorated with rituals.

The message of the Christian community said: “Our people are making great sacrifices to defend their dignity and their lands despite the attacks they face in the Euphrates Canton and throughout northern and eastern Syria. We are therefore canceling the celebration of the birthday of Jesus Christ. We will only pray for peace in our region. We hope that the suffering and hardship of our people will end as soon as possible and that love and compassion will replace hatred and violence in our region.”

The statement also condemned the attacks on Christian symbols in Hama and other regions. It called on the international community, humanitarian organizations and relevant parties to protect the people of the region from the threats of genocide and forced migration and to stop the attacks targeting peace and the common life of peoples.

Finally, the Christian community expressed their hope that this special day will bring peace and tranquility to Syria and the whole world.