LEBANON: Universal Syriac Union Party sends report to Public Prosecutor in response to Nofal Da0e, Churches likewise condemn Dao

BEIRUT — After Lebanese journalist Nofal Dao refused to apologize for comparing  the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) and Syriac Maronite people to the Islamic State (ISIS), Secretary General of the Universal Syriac Union Party (USUP), attorney Michel Mallo, submitted an official report to the Public Prosecution in Mount Lebanon which in turn referred it to the Information Crimes Office.

Dao had accused the Syriac (Aramean—Assyrian—Chaldean) and Syriac Maronite people of being extremists like ISIS for their adherence to their identity and language and not accepting identities other than their cultural and national identity. Dao’s accusations provoked reactions and condemnations by clerics, politicians, intellectuals, and popular groups.

The Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Beirut denounced Dao’s comments on its official website.

The Church’s statement read:

“The Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Beirut, represented by its Archbishop Mor Clemis Daniel Kourieh, its local Council and institutions, strongly denounce Dao’s insult of the Syriac and Maronite people, who he referred to as ISIS, because they adhere to their identity, language and history. He also attacked the Maronite people for their struggle and wish to return to their roots and authentic Syriac language.”

…

“We, as Syriacs, respect all pluralistic nationalities because it is the core of our message to respect the other, but we affirm that we will not accept being attacked.”

The Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Beirut demanded a public apology from Dao through the media, otherwise a lawsuit would be filed. 

The Syriac Catholic League also issued a public statement in which it strongly condemned Dao’s insults. The league’s statement read:

“These misleading and inciting allegations, which were made for narrow and cheap political reasons, are against a major and institutional demographic in this country, such as the Syriacs–Assyrians. Such allegations require the Lebanese judiciary to put an end to them legally.” 

The League likewise demanded an apology from Dao, otherwise legal measures will be taken against him.