Catholicos-Patriarch of Assyrian Church of the East Mor Awa III condemns attack on Erbil; Chaldean Patriarch Sako considers attack flagrant violation of Iraq sovereignty

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq — In a heartfelt gesture of solidarity, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East Mar Awa III Royel extended his deepest condolences to Nechirvan Barzani and Masrour Barzani in letters following the Iranian missile attack on Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). The attack killed several civilians, including a Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian businessman, and injured several others.

Patriarch Royel strongly condemned the violent act, calling for global unity against such heinous assaults to safeguard the security and well-being of civilians worldwide. Expressing profound sympathy, he stated, “We offer our sincere condolences and pray for the security and integrity of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and all its ethnic components, and for peace to prevail in the entire area.”

Chaldean Patriarch Mar Louis Raphael Sako issued a statement, expressing deep pain and sadness regarding the Iranian bombing in Erbil.

Patriarch Sako denounced these reckless and irresponsible acts, considering them a blatant violation of Iraq’s sovereignty and the lives of its people. He lamented the broader suffering in the region due to violence and injustice, emphasizing the responsibility of states and peoples to foster peace and coexistence.

Sako stated that the civilized approach to resolving issues involves dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect, providing a pathway to a decent and joyful life for citizens instead of perpetuating conflicts.