Assyrian Presence in Mosul on the Brink of Disappearance
In Old Mosul, the Christian presence is dwindling, with only about 70 Assyrian families remaining.
Recent reports have revealed an unprecedented decline in the number of Assyrian families in Mosul, a stark contrast to the city's centuries-long history as a major center of Christianity in the Middle East.
Since 2014, when the Islamic State (ISIS) overran the city, the Assyrian people have faced significant challenges, including the bombing and desecration of historic churches and monasteries, such as the al-Tahira Church and Mor Behnam Monastery.
Families were given the choice to flee, pay taxes (jizya) as non-Muslims, convert to Islam, or face death, marking one of the darkest chapters in Assyrian history.
The city's Christian presence teeters on the brink of disappearance.
Author's summary: Assyrian families in Mosul are disappearing.
- Only 70 Assyrian families remain in Mosul.
- The city was overrun by ISIS in 2014.
- Historic churches and monasteries were bombed and desecrated.