Islamic Conference Condemns attacks on Iraqi Christians

The organization is calling for an "end to the suffering of our Christian brothers." Government moves to protect Christians.

BAGHDAD (AsiaNews/Agencies) - The Organization of the Islamic Conference has condemned the violence against the Christians of Mosul, "unprecedented in the history of Iraq." Ekmeleddin Ihasanoglul, president of the organization that includes 57 Muslim countries, has called upon Baghdad authorities to "prosecute the culprits who are behind these acts, to end the suffering of Christian brothers and provide them with protection." Ihasanoglul also recalled that the OIC always urges "respect for minorities in the Muslim world."

The appeal of the OIC comes as Baghdad announces the sending of a government commission to Mosul for the purpose, according to government spokesman Ali al-Dabbagh, "of moving quickly to support the security effort with intensive military operations to restore security and order in Mosul and to reassure citizens."

A Christian member of parliament, Yunadim Kanna, who has met with Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, says that at least 1,500 Christian families have left Mosul, driven away by attacks and threats. "We expect these areas to be controlled, and the families to return to their homes in coming days," he says. For his part, the commander of Iraqi ground forces, General Ali Ghaidan, speaks of "media exaggeration that gave rise to fear and horror among these families, even if no threat was received."