As two journalists approached the meeting in the oldest Damascus synagogue, two Syrians in plain clothes asked to see their identity papers. The two Syrians sat in on much of the interview. That sort of monitoring occurs frequently with foreign journalists, but it appeared to be tighter here. Inside, the renovated synagogue is still highlighted by rugged, centuries-old stone columns. The nine Torah scrolls are kept in intricate silver cases in cabinets.
Hebrew letters jump out in relief on copper shutters that illustrate major Jewish holidays.
But, Persian carpets mark the paths between the 30 or so armchairs for the congregation. Kabariti, wearing a blue business suit and black and white religious prayer scarf, said Jews here are treated well. He said he sometimes wears his skullcap outside the synagogue and has no problems. Assad guaranteed Jews freedom from discrimination in a meeting with Jewish leaders 10 years ago. President Assad said it doesn't matter what direction a man takes when he prays to God.