I did some googling and I’m not finding that Assad is a Christian. Does anyone have evidence for that outside of neon revolt?
I've read that the regime is of the Islamic Alawite sect. They're in such a minority compared to Sunni & Shia that they ally with Christians to maintain their positions of power.
I think he’s an Alawite, some sect of Shia. I’ve heard interviews with Christians, some bishops, that he did protect them.
I think you are correct, generally. I’m not finding it either.
I do see that he is deeply supported by Christians and has been compared to being a modern Cyrus.
http://faithandheritage.com/2013/08/assad-a-modern-cyrus-the-great-for-christians/
These people are calling him muslim. Maybe texokie really was on the right track in her original musings - but is ready to take correction when the facts are established!
...”Understanding Assad’s upbringing and education is essential. Assad’s ruthlessness as a leader stems not from an Islamist worldview, but rather from a nationalist, pro-Syrian worldview. He is without a doubt a Muslim, and he supports much of the Islamic heritage of Syria, but he is moreover a fervent Syrian nationalist and views the Christian communities of Syria as a part of that legacy...”
I wasn’t able to find anything either. I had read earlier that he was Muslim -Alawite sect - a minority sect that is more tolerant then Muslim Brotherhood etc.
When I searched again today, I didn’t find that either. However, his father did have the constitution changed to allow a non-muslim to be President. Must have been a reason. It sparked wide-spread protests.