10 September, 2013
Throughout Syria’s two and half year civil war, the people of Syria have suffered immensely. Over a hundred thousand people have lost their lives, millions have been displaced, and the country now faces near devastation.
The Indigenous Assyrian and other Christian Communities of Syria, with a history of more than 6000 years and constituting approximately 10% of the population, have faced conditions that are considered genocidal. Churches have been destroyed and people have been killed and kidnapped because of their religion belief.
With the recent chemical attacks targeting Syrian civilians and President Obama’s decision to seek military intervention pending Congressional authorization, the fate of Syria’s indigenous Christians stands in jeopardy.
In the coming days, the U.S. Congress will decide on whether to support the President’s call for military action in Syria. Although we recognize that the primary responsibility for the safety of Syria’s population is in the hands of the Syrian Government, Syria’s opposition groups and the international community, we plead that the United States prioritizes the security of Syria’s vulnerable groups, including the Indigenous Assyrian & Christian Community, in formulating its policies and course of action. We oppose any military action and believe that if such action is taken, it will destroy the delicate social mosaic Syrians have enjoyed for centuries.
This strife is just one of many in recent history that highlights the dire situation of the Middle East’s ethno religious minorities, which necessitate even greater attention and support than has been realized. We hope that world will appreciate this real threat and undertakes to help such vulnerable group so that they do not face the same fate as their brethren in Iraq.
Assyrian Universal Alliance