CSW Condemns Use of Violence by Extremists

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) has condemned extremists' use of violence to create inter-religious conflict in Iraq after four churches were targeted in Baghdad and one in the northern city of Mosul.

It is believed that the recent attack on Christian Churches in Iraq is the first time in the country's history, which resulted in at least 11 deaths and 50 injured.

Until now there have been no significant attacks on Iraq's Christian minority, however, many Christians had become increasingly concerned about the possibility of violence, following attacks on Christian-owned shops selling alcohol.

Christians and Muslims have generally lived peacefully side by side in Iraq and CSW condemns this attempt by extremists to drive a wedge between the communities.

"I think they want to confuse the Iraqi people. They want to make us hate each other, they want the Muslims to hate us and for us to hate the Muslims. They want to make us feel threatened, but I don't feel threatened. These are terrorists." Diya Yaldi, an Iraqi Christian said.

Stuart Windsor, National Director of CSW, said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those murdered in these attacks. This is a very grave development for Christians in Iraq who have long feared they would be singled out for attack.

"We are confident that the interim government and coalition forces are doing their best to protect Christians and other vulnerable groups from attack, and pray they will be successful in their endeavours. The extremists behind these attacks must not be allowed to create inter-religious conflict in Iraq."