Nineveh Plain Forces marks 10 years of bravery and sacrifice
NINEVEH PLAINS, Iraq — On 6 January 2025, the Nineveh Plain Forces (NPF) marked their 10th anniversary, commemorating a decade of resilience and bravery. Founded in 2015 to defend the Christian communities of Nineveh Plains against the rise of the Islamic State (ISIS), the NPF has become a symbol of hope and survival for Iraq’s Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people.
The anniversary serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by NPF fighters in their mission to protect their ancestral lands during some of Iraq’s darkest days. Formed amidst the ISIS onslaught that displaced millions, the NPF swiftly became a frontline defense force, tasked with safeguarding towns and villages central to the region’s Christian heritage.
A Legacy of Resistance
Shortly after its formation, the NPF assumed defensive positions in the town of Tel Skuf, a critical stronghold during the ISIS conflict. On 3 May 2016, the NPF faced one of its fiercest battles when ISIS launched a coordinated multi-front assault. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the NPF successfully repelled the attack, achieving a significant victory that bolstered the community’s resolve.
Historical Context
The Nineveh Plain Forces were established during a period of crisis. In 2014, ISIS swept through northern Iraq, displacing hundreds of thousands, including the indigenous Christian communities of Nineveh Plains. Villages were destroyed, churches desecrated, and families uprooted.
In response, the NPF was formed with support from the global Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian diaspora and regional allies. Its mission was clear: to defend the land, culture, and people of one of the world’s oldest Christian communities. Over the past decade, the NPF has evolved into a disciplined force, representing not only military defense but also the broader struggle for recognition, security, and self-determination for Iraq’s minorities.
Honoring the Fallen
As part of the anniversary, tributes were paid to NPF fighters who lost their lives defending their homeland. Community leaders extended their condolences to the families of the fallen, emphasizing that their sacrifices have laid the foundation for the community’s continued survival and resilience.
Ongoing Challenges and Calls for Support
While the NPF’s achievements are celebrated, challenges persist. Political instability, security threats, and ongoing displacement hinder the recovery of Nineveh Plains. Community leaders reiterated calls for greater international support to ensure the region’s stability and the preservation of its cultural heritage.
As the Nineveh Plain Forces mark a decade of service, they stand not only as guardians of the Nineveh Plains but also as a testament to the enduring resilience and determination of Iraq’s Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian communities. The NPF’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the strength and unity needed to protect and rebuild a land rich in history and faith.