23 Assyrian Christians released after paying tax

Four Assyrian Christians abducted by Daesh (Islamic State) on 24 February, were released on 3 March after paying a religious tax. The group included a six year old girl, they were among a group of at least 220 Christians abducted. Their release follows that of 19 other Christians last week following a ruling by a shari’a court.

Over 200 Christians are still in captivity. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a Daesh religious court ruled on 28 February for the release the 19 hostages in exchange for a sum of money paid for each family as tax for non-Muslims.

At least 220 Christians were taken hostage in a Daesh offensive against Kurdish fighters in mainly Christian villages of north eastern al-Hasakah Province on 24 February. The offensive was launched in response to military advances by Kurdish forces, who are reported to be fighting alongside fledgling Christian militia and Westerners. According to the Assyrian International News Agency (AINA), nine members of the Assyrian militia died in the fighting, while 15 others were executed by Daesh, including two women.

There is no accurate information on the whereabouts of those still being held captive. After allegedly being held on Mount Abdul Aziz, they are thought to have been dispersed into Daesh-held territory pending unspecified investigations.

CSW’s Chief Executive Mervyn Thomas said, “While we are relieved to hear of the release of these hostages, it is worrying that they have been made to pay an unjust tax enforced by non-nationals in order to continue living in their ancestral homes. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with those who are still held captive by a sect that does not hesitate to plumb to the depths of inhumanity. We renew our call to the international community to provide protection for Syria’s religious and ethnic minorities against an onslaught that seeks to erase the country’s diverse heritage.”

For further information or to arrange interviews please contact Kiri Kankhwende, Press Officer at Christian Solidarity Worldwide on +44 (0)20 8329 0045 / +44 (0) 78 2332 9663, email kiri@csw.org.uk or visit www.csw.org.uk.

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is a Christian organisation working for religious freedom through advocacy and human rights, in the pursuit of justice.