Dario Salvi

In his homily at midnight Mass, the Chaldean Patriarch recalls the "increasingly serious" crises afflicting the planet: divisions, conflicts and injustice. The theme of "minorities" who are "increasingly oppressed" along with "displaced persons" because of war. The reconstruction of Iraq starting from its origins and values, to rebuild trust in the "social fabric".

Regional and international (EU, UN, AL OIC GCC)) representatives met yesterday at the Dead Sea, Jordan, for the second Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership. Close to Iran, Iraq’s new prime minister seeks balanced relations with everyone. Iran’s foreign minister talks about friendship with others, but slams those who fuel protests in his country following the death of Mahsa Amini.

The prelate underlines the "veil of silence" that has fallen over the deaths linked to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Fears over the language used by senior members of the next Israeli government, whose prospects "are not encouraging". The first "open" celebrations after the restrictions imposed by Covid-19 and the "surprising explosion" of pilgrimages.

The jihadi group is back, striking twice in 24 hours. in Kirkuk, nine policemen were killed yesterday; eight people were killed today in Anbar province. Local tribes tried to repel IS’s attack, some with their bare hands. Small cells and lone wolves carry out opportunistic attacks.

Photojournalist Omar Sanadiki took a picture that has become a symbol of the poverty in which the population finds itself, especially the youngest. He tells AsiaNews how the photo came about and the prospects of a country that will not emerge from the tunnel of war and poverty anytime soon. Children rummaging through rubbish for survival is a growing phenomenon, exploited by traffickers.

The ceremony yesterday in St Joseph's Cathedral, presided over by the Chaldean Patriarch. The three new priests representing the diaspora, the capital's community and Iraqi Kurdistan. Card. Sako: a mission in which "the flame of enthusiasm" must remain alive. The importance of prayer and the bond with the community.

A first in Gulf states, the store opening reflects growing ties with Israel following the "Abraham Accords". Called Rimon, the supermarket is located near the local Jewish community centre. For Rabbi Levi Duchman, it will add “tremendous happiness”. Its first great moment is the upcoming celebration of Hanukkah, the festival of lights.

The Syrian Catholic Patriarch Ignace Joseph III Younan made a pastoral visit to north-east Syria in recent days. A reality of "sadness, anguish, but also of challenges and hope". War, economic crisis and fears of a Turkish attack have emptied the region. From 100,000 the faithful now number 20,000, with an average income of 30 euros per month. Sanctions and international neglect.

In addition to lorry drivers, several businesses have closed. Protesters could shut down roads tomorrow. In the main port on the Red Sea, goods are piling up. For now, haulage to Iraq and Saudi Arabia has not been impacted. Protest is at risk of turning violent.

Sentenced to two years and seven months in prison, with disqualification from public office. A crowd took to the streets to demonstrate against the judges. He spoke of a 'political' verdict and of law being used 'for political purposes'. The 2023 presidential race at risk, now the game is being played on appeal.

As a new Israeli government is set to take over, Catholic leaders bemoan the deteriorating “social and political situation” and recent statements “against” coexistence. They also express concern for the legal limbo of migrants, expanding Jewish settlements, the school crisis caused by funding cuts, and the “absence of a real process of peace.”

The initiative promoted by the primate between 21 and 23 December. Auxiliary of Baghdad: gesture of "solidarity" with those who suffer, with a thought for "migrants and displaced people". From the patriarchate hundreds of food baskets for the needy. The new premier declares Christmas an 'official holiday' for all Iraqis. From al-Sistani a call for solidarity and coexistence.