European Syriac Union commemorates Bethnahrin National Council’s Martyrs’ Day

GÜTERSLOH, Germany — The European Syriac Union (ESU) actively organized various events to commemorate the Bethnahrin National Council’s (Mawtbo Umthoyo d’Bethnahrin, MUB) Martyrs’ Day. One of those solemn memorials took place in Gütersloh, Germany.

The ceremony began with a minute of silence dedicated to honoring the memories of the MUB’s martyrs and all those who sacrificed for the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean).

After the commemoration was opened by Kebro Touma, Nazira Goreya, Co-Chair of the Syriac Union Party (SUP) and distinguished member of the MUB Presidential Body, gave a speech via video link emphasizing the profound significance of martyrdom. She underscored that the blood of the martyrs serves as a guiding path for the continuous development of the freedom struggle of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people. Goreya also addressed recent countrywide developments and vehemently condemned the Turkish attacks in North and East Syria and northern Iraq.

Member of the MUB Administrative Board Charbel Hanna then spoke about the tragic incident in the Nineveh Plains town of Baghdede (Qaraqosh / Hamdaniya), Iraq, where a devastating fire at a wedding hall killed 107 members of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian community. Hanna stressed the imperative of honoring and remembering the martyrs of Baghdede and all those who laid down their lives for the freedom of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people. He expressed optimism that the collective efforts and unity of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people will bolster and fortify the ongoing struggle.

The event concluded with insightful interventions from representatives of the Virgin Mary Church Council, who were in attendance.