Christians are fleeing on foot with no food, money or water to escape the wrath of ISIS militants. And it’s a pity that the conscience of the world has still not woken up. “Today the story of Christianity is finished in Iraq,” said a priest who identified himself as Fr. Nawar, according to CNA website.
“People can’t stay in Iraq because there is death for whoever stays,” he was quoted as saying by CNA.
Vatican is following with deep concern the dramatic news reports coming from northern Iraq, which involve defenseless populations. Christian communities are particularly affected: a people fleeing from their villages because of the violence that rages in these days, wreaking havoc on the entire region.
In light of these terrible developments, Pope Francis renewed his spiritual closeness to all those who are suffering through this painful trial, and makes the impassioned appeals of the local bishops his own, asking together with them in behalf of their sorely tried communities, that the whole Church and all the faithful raise up with one voice a ceaseless prayer, imploring the Holy Spirit to send the gift of peace.
Pope called on the international community to protect all those affected or threatened by the violence, and to guarantee all necessary assistance – especially the most urgently needed aid – to the great multitude of people who have been driven from their homes, whose fate depends entirely on the solidarity of others.
The Pope also appealed to the conscience of all people, and to each and every believer he repeats: “May the God of peace create in all an authentic desire for dialogue and reconciliation. Violence is not conquered with violence. Violence is conquered with peace! Let us pray in silence, asking for peace; everyone, in silence....”
The Obama administration announced late Thursday night that it had authorized “targeted airstrikes” to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe and defend U.S. military advisors in the Iraqi capital of Irbil. It is also airdropping humanitarian aid to a Yazidi group trapped in the mountains of Sinjar without access to food or water.
According to reports from BBC News, the Islamic State militants have taken down crosses and burned religious manuscripts. Islamic State forces have given an ultimatum to Christians and other minorities demanding that they convert, pay the jizya tax or be killed.
