THE conflict in Syria can only be solved politically, not by military means – that is the firm conviction of the Syrian Jesuit Father Ziad Hilal.
“The use of weapons will not stop the bloodshed in Syria,” he said.
“In this I disagree with America and France. Rather the international community must work towards a peaceful solution and convene an international peace conference.
“In Syria itself the government and opposition must start a dialogue.
“The arms deliveries must also be stopped, as must the infiltration of Syria by jihadists from all over the world.”
In Homs, Fr Ziad heads a social centre which provides medical, psychological and other charitable services.
About 6000 families from Homs and the surrounding area are taken care of there.
He is supported in this by about 100 volunteers.
Fr Ziad said the situation in the embattled city of Homs was difficult.
“Time and again there are fights between the “Free Syrian Army” and government troops. Recently a bomb fell very close by. Fortunately nothing happened to our secretary, but her home was destroyed,” he said.
Fr Ziad said his superior had given him permission to leave the city if he wished, but he had rejected the idea.
“If we go, who will then serve the people?” he said.
Fr Ziad is looking to a third winter of the war with trepidation.
“We are afraid of the winter. We need everything to get our people through the winter – heating oil, clothing and blankets. I appeal to our fellow Christians in Europe not to forget us,” he said.
ACN
