Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian political parties urge Iraqi Parliament to recognize Babylonian-Assyrian New Year as official holiday

BAGHDAD — Five political parties representing the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian community in Iraq, including the Beth Nahrin Patriotic Union (Huyodo Bethnahrin Athroyo, HBA), have called on the Iraqi Council of Representatives to recognize the Babylonian-Assyrian New Year, Akitu, which falls on 1 April, as an official holiday.

In their joint statement, the parties criticized the current national holidays law for excluding Akitu, arguing that such omission undermines Iraq’s rich cultural heritage and national identity.

The statement emphasized that historical legacies are vital components of the national identity for Iraq’s diverse communities, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

The parties concluded by urging the Iraqi Parliament to reconsider the law and officially include Akitu, on 1 April, as a national holiday, celebrating the Babylonian-Assyrian New Year, to honor and preserve this important aspect of Iraq’s heritage.