Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of Syria's new administration, met with a delegation from the Christian community in Damascus on New Year's Eve, local media reported.

The meeting included religious officials representing various Christian churches, including Orthodox, Catholic, Armenian Orthodox, Syriac Orthodox, and Protestant denominations, as reported by Al Sharq News.

This gathering comes amid growing concerns among minorities in Syria, including Christians, as they navigate the uncertainties of the new political landscape. Efforts are underway to secure assurances from the new authorities regarding their safety and rights.

Last week, Syrian Christians attended Christmas Eve Mass for the first time since the fall of the Assad regime on December 8, marking a significant test of the new administration’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of religious minorities.

The service took place under tight security, with several light trucks belonging to the new leadership positioned around the church to prevent potential acts of violence targeting Christian sites.

Syrian Christians predominantly belong to independent Orthodox churches, such as the Syriac Orthodox Church, or Eastern Catholic churches, including the Maronite Church. Others affiliated with the Assyrian Church of the East and other Nestorian churches.

Most of the Christian population resides in Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, Hama, Latakia, and their surrounding areas, as well as al-Hasakah province in the northeast.

Since the opposition-led ousting of al-Assad’s regime, minorities, including Christians, have been observing developments in Syria with caution. al-Sharaa has issued multiple reassurances to minority communities, pledging their safety under the new administration.

He has also assured Western officials visiting Syria that the new leadership will not pursue retribution against members of the Assad regime, which Alawites predominantly led, nor will it oppress any other religious minority.

These commitments are seen as part of broader efforts to foster unity and stability in the country during this transitional period.