Outrage in Iraq over video showing desecration of Christian graves in Shaqlawa Cemetery, suspect arrested

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq — A disturbing video circulated on TikTok showing individuals disrespecting Christian graves in Shaqlawa Cemetery in Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq by hitting and kicking them while making derogatory remarks ignited outrage within the Christian community and prompted condemnation from human rights organizations across the country.

Amidst ongoing violations targeting Christians in Iraq, a nation they have called home for millennia, the dissemination of this footage has sparked widespread condemnation. The individual’s derogatory remarks, captured within the confines of the Christian cemetery in Shaqlawa, Erbil, Kurdistan region of Iraq, have been perceived as an existential threat to the Christian population.

In response to the egregious behavior depicted in the video, the Independent Commission for Human Rights has unequivocally denounced the incident, deeming it a flagrant violation of religious ethics and a betrayal of the foundational values of the Kurdistan region of Iraq.

Emphasizing the principles of solidarity, tolerance, and peace that underpin harmonious coexistence in society, the organization has called upon law enforcement authorities to swiftly apprehend the perpetrator and ensure that justice is served.

Expressing deep regret over the absence of effective regulations governing social media platforms, the Independent Commission for Human Rights has underscored the alarming proliferation of hate speech and offensive rhetoric online, calling for urgent measures to curb such detrimental practices.

Furthermore, the organization has issued a fervent plea for legislative reforms aimed at safeguarding societal security and national stability, while staunchly advocating for the prevention of violence and the protection of fundamental human rights for all individuals, regardless of religious affiliation.

The individual responsible for the video has been apprehended by Kurdistan Region police, as reported by Rudaw.

The reprehensible act sparked widespread condemnation, prompting Kurdistan Regional Government’s Transport Minister Ano Abdoka to bring the matter to the attention of authorities and the public. Abdoka affirmed that the perpetrator will face justice in accordance with the law.

The Kurdistan Region’s Independent Human Rights Commission revealed that the individual responsible for recording the video and subsequent arrest is a minor, currently held in a correctional facility for women and children. In a meeting with the Commission, the minor expressed remorse, admitting the act was driven by a desire for social media fame.

The Commission underscored the role of extremist rhetoric and the cultivation of hatred in inciting such behavior, calling for concerted efforts to combat these influences.

While Kurdistan prides itself on religious tolerance and multiculturalism, incidents like this highlight ongoing challenges. Minority groups often voice concerns about the protection of historical sites, vulnerable to theft or damage, risking the erasure of their heritage.