Bethnahrin National Council issues statement on 22nd anniversary of founding

BETH NAHRIN — The Bethnahrain National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB) issued a statement on the 22nd anniversary of its founding highlighting its commitment to continue the struggle for the rights of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people.

“On the 22nd anniversary of the MUB’s founding, we celebrate our continued struggle. During our struggle, which began in 1988 with organizational and practical steps, we went through necessary stages with a solid will and free opinion,” read the statement.

The MUB added that its founding philosophy was linked to the ancestral homeland and the national unity of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian-Aramean people.

“During our first conference, which was held in the mountains of the homeland in Beth Nahrin [Mesopotamia] on 18 June 2000, we took the decision to build our future in the Middle East. This historic campaign in our homeland has entered into force, through our steps in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, and diaspora, to reach salvation and freedom,” the statement added.

The MUB declared that from 2000 until today, political, social, military, and economic developments took place in the homeland, in addition to the difficulties faced during the struggle represented by the great sacrifice during the Middle East crisis.

“During the first Gulf War, world powers became familiar with the social, cultural, and historical legacy of our people, and great support was given to our people in Iraq to establish and announce a force and a political party for themselves in pursuit of greater autonomy, as well as obtaining a position in the political developments in Syria and Lebanon,” read the statement.

The MUB stated the national presence of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people has become more visible. In North and East Syria, they have taken an active role in the Democratic Autonomous Administration and formed a democratic system with other peoples supporting freedom. In the 1990s, political, social, and national agreements took place and the revolutionary spirit and fraternity was developed between fighters of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people who wished to return to the homeland.

The statement added that, in the diaspora, the issues facing the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people are finally being taken seriously in Europe.

“The MUB’s long struggle has reached high regional levels. In order to reach our goals, we must have a strong will and sense of responsibility. Throughout the history of our people, there is great energy. From today onwards, we will achieve our national aspirations in a great struggle and revolutionary spirit,” read the statement.

The MUB stated that, on this important day, it will achieve victory over those who wish to oppress the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people. The MUB offered peace and respect to families of martyrs and called on the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people to preserve their national unity, history, heritage, and the MUB struggle.