Historic Registration of Jewish Organization in Syria
In a significant development, Syria’s Minister of Social Affairs and Labor has officially recognized a Jewish organization, marking the first time this has happened in the country. Hind Kabawat, the first woman to hold a cabinet position in Syria’s transitional government, endorsed the Jewish Heritage in Syria Foundation (JHS), opening new pathways for the Jewish community.
This registration allows JHS to function freely within Syria, including setting up an office and collaborating with the government and local communities. The foundation will also be responsible for safeguarding Jewish heritage sites and aiding in the return of Jewish properties. Moreover, it will facilitate visits from Jewish groups to Syria regularly.
Kabawat emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating that the presence of Judaism in Syria is an integral part of the nation’s culture. “Restoring the rights of Syrian Jews is a vital step toward building a society that values justice and inclusivity,” she stated.
Historically, Syria had a thriving Jewish community, but numbers dwindled drastically post-1948 due to various restrictions and growing tensions in the region. Today, only a small number of Jews remain in the country, and many historic synagogues have been damaged or destroyed over the years of civil conflict.
Henry Hamra, president of JHS, expressed excitement about the new beginnings this registration brings. After visiting various sites in Damascus, he remarked, “We are eager to welcome people back. Syria has so much beauty to share.”
Hamra’s family has roots in Syria, and with the political changes over the last year, he has been able to return multiple times. He noted that the once-closed doors to Damascus and Aleppo are now open, allowing him to reconnect with his heritage.
The recent approval has sparked hope for a revived cultural heritage and strengthens relationships within diverse communities in Syria. Hamra emphasized the importance of restoring synagogues and promoting visits to these historical sites to preserve the Jewish legacy in Syria.
As the world watches, this moment may serve as a stepping stone toward reconciliation and a brighter future for all communities in the region.
