Erbil Christians say war prevents Easter celebrations

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Christians in Erbil’s Ankawa district on Sunday said they have been unable to celebrate Easter as usual due to ongoing drone and missile attacks targeting the city.

“Before this war, life was very pleasant in Ankawa, but since these missiles and drones started coming down, they have had an impact on us mentally and materially,” said Bassam Nahmian, a Christian from Damascus who fled war two years ago to find peace in Erbil. “Was it not enough that we lived in war for 12 years in Syria? We fled from war… this is one of the missiles… Do we feel like it’s a feast? We don’t feel like it’s a feast.”

Since the outbreak of the Iran war on February 28, the Christian-majority district has been repeatedly caught in the crossfire due to its proximity to Erbil International Airport, where coalition forces are stationed. Ankawa has faced frequent drone attacks and falling debris from air defense interceptions. In early March, debris from intercepted targets fell onto the district, damaging homes and shattering windows.

"This feast, unlike past feasts, we cannot be happy and celebrate because of this security situation that has been created due to war... we only wish for peace," said Maryamana Johnson, a Christian resident.

“To the international community, I say, I hope this war will stop, especially because the Kurdistan Region is not a party to this war,” said Clara Jawdat, another Christian resident. “This is a peaceful place, and we live in a peaceful environment.”

On Wednesday, the community was unable to hold public celebrations for Akitu. The Assyrian Democratic Movement (Zowaa) announced the cancellation of major festivals to ensure public safety, urging citizens to celebrate privately at home rather than in large gatherings.

On Easter Sunday, the celebration of Jesus Christ’s resurrection three days after his crucifixion, the Christian community continues to endure the impact of the war.

In a holiday address, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani relayed his congratulations to Christians in the Region and Iraq, emphasizing that "our Christian citizens are a vital part of Kurdistan’s community and have a rich history of collaboration and shared struggle with the people of Kurdistan."


Payam Sarbat contributed to this article from Erbil.