UN condemns Islamist persecution of Iraqi minorities
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 6 August 2014 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, UN condemns Islamist persecution of Iraqi minorities, 6 August 2014, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/54003e9810.html [accessed 4 November 2019] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
August 06, 2014
The UN Security Council has condemned the persecution and killing of religious minorities in Iraq by the extremist Islamic State (IS) and warned that it could be held liable for crimes against humanity.
The council condemned the IS and loyal armed groups for attacking and killing minorities, including Yazidis and Christians, as well as Iraqis who oppose their "extremist ideology."
The Islamic State – formerly known as the ISIL – captured large parts of northern and western Iraq last month along with disgruntled Sunni tribes.
The IS issued an ultimatum on August 2 to tens of thousands of Yazidis – who follow an ancient religion related to Zoroastrianism – to convert to Islam, pay a fine, flee, or be killed.
It made a similar threat to Christians in Mosul two weeks earlier and has blown up several religious shrines and Shi'ite mosques.
Based on reporting by AP, UN statement
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
