Syrians Protest Alcohol Ban in Damascus

0:00It's March 22nd. This is Canada News Today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story. Hundreds of Syrians gathered in Damascus on Sunday to protest a new ban on serving alcohol in restaurants and nightclubs. The rally happened in the Christian neighborhood of Bob Toma, where people from different religious groups chanted for unity and held signs calling. For personal freedoms. The restrictions come from a decree by the Damascus governor requiring places to stop serving drinks within three months and switch licenses to. Cafes. Officials say it responds to community requests as the interim government led by President Ahmed Al-Sharah navigates pressures from conservatives. Protesters worry this could erode the secular lifestyle, many enjoyed under the old regime, sparking tensions among religious minorities like Christians, allowites, and Jews. After years of civil war and dictatorship, folks fear a shift toward stricter values despite promises of pluralism. The ban allows sealed bottle sales in three Christian areas, but keeps them at least 75 meters from mosques and schools, and 20 meters.

1:06From police stations, some see this as unfairly targeting certain neighborhoods. Authorities responded with an apology to Christians, clarifying that hotels remain exempt, and the rules aim to regulate sales like in other countries. Without curving personal choices. As Syria rebuilds, these debates highlight the fragile balance between tradition and openness.