Latest news with #Assyrians
Shafaq News
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
President Barzani: Protecting minority rights is a principle not a slogan
Shafaq News/ Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani reaffirmed on Monday that safeguarding the rights of all components in Kurdistan is a deeply held principle, not a mere slogan. The Kurdistan Region of Iraq is home to a diverse mosaic of ethnic and religious communities, including Kurds, Arabs, Turkmen, Assyrians, Chaldeans, Armenians, Yazidis, and Shabaks. Speaking at the opening of the Church Endowments Administration Conference in Erbil, Barzani said that his participation reflects clear support for all components of the Kurdistan Region, especially for Christian citizens, 'who are an essential part of the fabric of this society and Kurdistan's shared history.' 'This land has been known for thousands of years as a place of peaceful coexistence, acceptance of others, and fair participation in rights and duties.' He stressed that minority rights are not symbolic rhetoric, but 'firm principles and concepts we genuinely believe in,' adding that peaceful partnership must be the foundation of society. Barzani recalled that since the establishment of the Kurdistan Parliament, there has been a strong emphasis on inclusive representation, noting that peaceful coexistence has been a key factor in Kurdistan's stability and strength. Barzani reiterated that the diverse communities of the Kurdistan Region 'are not guests, but an inherent and rooted part of this land.' 'Kurdistan has always embraced all, historically providing space for freedom and peaceful coexistence,' he said. 'Achieving these principles can only be done through a clear legal framework that guarantees rights and protects diversity.' He called for accelerating the passage of a dedicated law for the management of Christian endowments that aligns with Iraqi legislation and ensures protection against encroachments. 'Such a law would not only be a legal framework but a clear message that Christians' rights are protected, their presence is guaranteed, and their ancestral heritage is safeguarded.'
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Stone slab discovery reveals clues to major deities of ancient Assyrian empire
A huge stone slab discovered near the Iraqi city of Mosul offers new clues to the major deities of the ancient Assyrians, who ruled one of antiquity's great empires. Unearthed by a German team at the ancient Assyrian city of Nineveh, the relief depicts the 7th-century BC ruler King Ashurbanipal, flanked by the gods Ashur and Ishtar. They are accompanied by a mythological creature known as a fish genius, who granted the gods and the king life and salvation. 'These figures suggest that a massive winged sun disk was originally mounted above the relief,' one of the archaeologists said, adding that more work is needed to fully understand the monument's significance.
Shafaq News
03-05-2025
- Shafaq News
Visit Kurdistan: Al-Amadiya's stories carried by the clouds
Shafaq News/ Perched high atop a flat mountain in Duhok province, Al-Amadiya (Amedi) city stands as one of the Kurdistan Region's most breathtaking and historic destinations. Located about 90 kilometers northeast of Duhok, this ancient town offers travelers a rare blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural warmth. Where History Crowns the Mountains Al-Amadiya's roots stretch back over 4,000 years, having been home to Assyrians, Medes, Abbasids, and Ottomans. It holds deeper historical treasures with thirteen officially registered archaeological sites, each offering a window into a different chapter of Mesopotamian history. 'Duhok's heritage spans multiple eras,' said Kovan Ihsan, a researcher and antiquities expert at the Duhok Directorate of Antiquities, in an interview with Shafaq News. Among these layers is a reference to Al-Amadiya dating back to the 9th century BCE, when Assyrian King Adad-Nirari II called it Kur Amad — a testament to the city's ancient stature. Notable sites include Kura Sriji, which preserves ruins from various periods, and the Al-Amadiya Gate, carved with figures believed to be from the early Simitic and Persian periods. The Zebar Gate, etched into the rocky landscape, also adds to the town's architectural legacy. Islamic periods, according to Ihsan, left a rich imprint on Al-Amadiya, with landmarks such as the Qubahan religious school, a former center of learning, and the Great Mosque, built in traditional mountain style. Other significant sites include the tomb of Estella, the Al-Amadiya Citadel, and forts constructed under Sheikh Taha Al-Naqshbandi, which still evoke the city's defensive legacy. The Khazani Temple, a Jewish place of worship dating back to the Badinan Emirate (13th–19th centuries), further highlights Al-Amadiya's embrace of religious and cultural diversity. 'Perched at 912 meters above sea level, Al-Amadiya's strategic location on a massive rock formation encircled by deep valleys and rugged peaks grants it natural defense — qualities that have kept its stories alive for millennia,' underscored Ihsan. 'This location not only offers beauty but also serves as a natural defense.' Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush valleys, the city offers panoramic views that captivate photographers, hikers, and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the old marketplace and scenic trails that reveal the breathtaking landscape. Nearby attractions include the scenic village of Kani, the serene Sipa Waterfall, and the dramatic Gali Zanta valley. Adventure seekers may also enjoy seasonal paragliding events around the cliffs, offering a bird's-eye view of this remarkable landscape. Nearby Stays While Al-Amadiya itself does not have formal hotels inside the town, several comfortable lodging options are available nearby. Travelers can find motels, guesthouses, and tourist complexes along the road connecting Al-Amadiya to Duhok. Options include the Gelye Sherane Motel and the Jwan Tourist Complex, offering modest amenities within easy reach of the town. Visitors seeking higher-end accommodations often choose resorts in nearby Sarsink, known for its cooler climate and family-friendly facilities, or larger hotels in Duhok city. For a more traditional experience, small guesthouses around Al-Amadiya provide a cozy stay, where guests can enjoy Kurdish hospitality, homemade cuisine, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Best Time to Visit The ideal time to visit Al-Amadiya is from April to October. In spring, the town is surrounded by lush greenery and colorful blooms. Summer brings cooler mountain air compared to the lowlands, while autumn blankets the hills in golden hues. Winter offers a picturesque but chilly experience, occasionally dusted with snow. Your Road to the Mountaintop The Kurdish city is accessible by car from Duhok, with a drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours through winding mountain roads and scenic valleys. There are no direct public transport options; travelers are advised to use taxis or join guided tours. Cost and Facilities Entry into Al-Amadiya is free; visitors can roam historical sites without charge. Cafés and local eateries within the town serve traditional Kurdish meals and fresh sweets. Shopping opportunities include locally made crafts, honey, and embroidered garments. Government Support In April 2024, the Kurdistan Regional Government, led by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, launched a major infrastructure initiative in the Al-Amadiya district to boost local services and support future tourism growth. The projects, valued at more than six billion Iraqi dinars ($4,581,369.71), include constructing key roadways linking villages, expanding electricity networks, and developing facilities. A Journey Through Time Standing atop the cliffs of Al-Amadiya, visitors are transported into a living tapestry of history, culture, and nature. For those seeking to step beyond the ordinary and into the heart of Kurdistan's timeless spirit, the city awaits with open gates and endless stories.
Shafaq News
02-05-2025
- Shafaq News
Visit Kurdistan: Akre's rooftops lit by history and flame
Shafaq News/ Tucked between steep mountain slopes and cascading valleys, the town of Akre stands as one of the most picturesque destinations in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Known for its stone-built homes stacked along the hillsides and narrow alleyways that wind through history, Akre offers a rare blend of natural serenity and cultural depth. Located approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Duhok and about 140 kilometers from Erbil, Akre's foundations go back more than 2,000 years. The town has been shaped by various civilizations, including the Medes, Assyrians, and Ottomans. This layered history is still visible today in its architecture, tombs, and religious sites. The road to Akre is paved and accessible year-round, with private taxis and shared cars available from major cities. Akre's Draw for Tourists Dominating the skyline is Qalla Akre, or Akre Castle, an ancient fortress perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town. Though partially in ruins, it remains a popular viewpoint and photo stop, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys. Another symbol of the town's rich past is the old synagogue, a remnant of the once-thriving Jewish community that lived in Akre for centuries. Though no longer active, the site stands as a quiet witness to the town's religious diversity and peaceful coexistence. Beyond its historical depth, Akre is renowned for its natural charm. The town is surrounded by hiking trails, caves, and cold-water springs, where locals and tourists gather during the summer months for picnics and respite from the heat. Just a short drive from Akre, Sipa Bjeel Waterfall offers a serene escape nestled among lush greenery and fruit-bearing trees. Fed by multiple mountain springs, the waterfall cascades into a tranquil pool, making it a favored spot for picnics and relaxation. But it is during Nowruz, the Kurdish New Year, that Akre truly shines. Every March, thousands of Kurds ascend the mountains in a fiery procession, lighting torches to mark the arrival of spring. Streets fill with music, dancing, and the bright colors of traditional dress, drawing not only locals but also international visitors and media. Welcoming Tourists with Local Flavor Akre's hospitality is as well-known as its scenery. The town has seen a steady rise in domestic tourism, with families from Mosul, Kirkuk, and Baghdad heading north to experience its cool weather, clean air, and relaxed pace of life. Guesthouses and small hotels cater to visitors seeking both comfort and authenticity. Many accommodations offer views over the valley or towards the castle, while local eateries serve Kurdish dishes. The local bazaar, alive with the scent of spices and the sound of bargaining, is the place to find handwoven rugs, dried mountain herbs, and locally made honey. Visitors often leave with jars of Murabba (Middle Eastern jam), a taste of Akre's agricultural richness. Though small in size, Akre leaves a lasting impression — a town where mountains cradle stories, traditions rise with the morning mist, and every stone seems to whisper a piece of Kurdistan's soul.
Newsweek
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Over a Century After the 1915 Genocides, the World Must Embrace Pope Francis' Moral Clarity
Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. This year marks 110 years since the 1915 genocide of the Armenians, Assyrians/Syriacs/Chaldeans, Yazidis, Greeks, and Maronites of the Ottoman Empire. Every April 24, as an Armenian Catholic and descendant of survivors, I mark the day by commemorating the 1.5 million Armenians who perished—and all communities harmed in 1915. To commemorate one group demands commemorating all. Yet, political fears, moral cowardice, and what Pope Francis called, the "very ugly disease" of "globalization of indifference," have reduced remembrance to political weaponization and misinformation. Pope Francis speaks while seated on the podium at the square near the ruins of the Syriac Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception (al-Tahira-l-Kubra), in the old city of Mosul in Iraq's north on March... Pope Francis speaks while seated on the podium at the square near the ruins of the Syriac Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception (al-Tahira-l-Kubra), in the old city of Mosul in Iraq's north on March 7, 2021. Pope Francis, on his historic Iraq tour, visited Christian communities that endured the brutality of the Islamic State. More ZAID AL-OBEIDI/AFP via Getty Images Say It by Its Name All peoples who suffered genocide have given it a name. The Armenians call the 1915 genocide Medz Yeghern, meaning "the great tragedy." Over 30 countries have officially recognized the Armenian genocide to date. The Assyrians/Chaldean/Syriacs call it Sayfo. Sayfo in classical Syriac means "sword," recalling the method of killing used against non-Muslim communities. Greeks refer to it as Genoktonía ton Ellínon tis Mikrás Asías, the Asia Minor Greek Genocide, and the Genoktonía ton Ellínon tou Póntou, the Pontic Greek Genocide. Less than half a dozen countries, including Sweden, the Netherlands, and Armenia have recognized these atrocities. The Yazidis call their 74 historical genocides fermans, with the one of 1915 considered by some as the 72nd. Maronites of Mount Lebanon call their genocide Kafno from the Syriac for "famine." Both have no official international recognition. Pope Francis Called for Meaningful Remembrance To Honor the Truth As we mourn the loss of Pope Francis, it is vital to document his wisdom as a justice mechanism to protect communities facing atrocities so that the world can reconnect with remembrance and reverse the erasure of genocide. Pope Francis taught us that truthful acknowledgment is a moral imperative. Ten years ago, during the Armenian genocide's centenary mass, Pope Francis acknowledged it as the "first genocide of the twentieth century," quoting the 2001 declaration by Pope John Paul II and Armenian Catholicos Karekin II. The deportation of Armenian men in Kharberd (Harput region), Ottoman Empire, in the summer of 1915. The deportation of Armenian men in Kharberd (Harput region), Ottoman Empire, in the summer of 1915. Courtesy of the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute Foundation He exclaimed in his homily: "It is necessary, and indeed a duty, to honor their memory, for whenever memory fades, it means that evil allows wounds to fester. Concealing or denying evil is like allowing a wound to keep bleeding without bandaging it!" Pope Francis understood the need for genuine accountability to transform acknowledgment into healing. His vision invited the world to expand its historical consciousness. In 2016, while visiting the Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan, Pope Francis wrote in their guestbook: "Memories should not be watered down or forgotten; memory is a source of peace and of the future." Armenian orphans rescued by Arabs in the Hauran region, Ottoman Empire (Hauran Sanjak Syria region) circa 1917-1918. Armenian orphans rescued by Arabs in the Hauran region, Ottoman Empire (Hauran Sanjak Syria region) circa 1917-1918. Courtesy of the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute Foundation Pope Francis Denounced Indifference As the Greatest Obstacle to Justice and Peace Pope Francis did not just mourn genocide—he confronted it. He also warned of a new crime of atrocity, which he described as: "A sort of genocide created by general and collective indifference." He feared indifference would sever the world from a path to justice and peace. In his 2020 Encyclical Fratelli Tutti, he warned: "The sense of belonging to a single human family is fading, and the dream of working together for justice and peace seems an outdated utopia. What reigns instead is a cool, comfortable and globalized indifference, born of deep disillusionment." He later added: "Indeed, if justice is not respected, conflicts arise. Without justice, the law of the prevalence of the strong over the weak becomes entrenched." Artsakhi Armenians commemorate survivors of the First Nagorno-Karabakh War on November 25, 2020. Artsakhi Armenians commemorate survivors of the First Nagorno-Karabakh War on November 25, 2020. Photo Courtesy of Johny Kondakjian / Zovighian Public Office Moral Innovation Must Prevail We must ask: Why have almost all communities affected by genocides in 1915 been re-subjugated to destructive violence? Is it because survivors are fragile? Or because perpetrators have gained an additional 110 years of experience in violence and destruction? Collective indifference is fueling the genocidal agendas of today's perpetrators, alongside sophisticated weapons, technology, censorship, misinformation, and political alliances—all enabling and rewarding present-day erasure and impunity. What is clear is international law and humanitarian diplomacy do not meet Pope Francis' standards of morality, courage, and critical thinking. It is time to seize innovation for moral transformation and reimagine our highest laws and courts. Lynn Zovighian is a philanthropist, humanitarian diplomat, and founder of the Zovighian Public Office, partnering with communities facing genocide and crises in the Middle East and Caucasus through research, culture, advocacy, and diplomacy. She is also co-founder of Zovighian Partnership. The author would like to extend special thanks to Edita Gzoyan and Gohar Khanumyan at the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute Foundation for their archival contributions to this article. The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.
