The Middle East – March Update 1
Liberated Mosul still not safe for Iraqi Christians
Barnabas Fund, 1 March 2018
The presence of Iranian-backed Shia militia in Mosul means Christian do not feels safe, more than seven months since the city was liberated from Islamic State.
The Shiites are met with a lot of distrust and not seen as allies. The city has not become safe for Assyrian Christians.
Many Christians used to live in Mosul and the nearby Nineveh Plains, but they remain very hesitant to return to their homes, many of which are damaged or destroyed.
Violence against Christians began in Mosul long before the arrival of Islamic State.
In 2008 and 2009, Christians began to be threatened, abducted and killed for their faith. A well-known priest was abducted and slaughtered. His body was found in pieces.
For Iraqi Christians considering what lies ahead, their future prospects remain bleak.