The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), which has gained large swathes of territory in the two countries, is now in control of Iraq's largest Christian town, Qaraqosh.
The French government has confirmed that Qaraqosh has fallen into the hands of the militants and expressed France's concerns over the progress and the acts of violence that have been committed there, reported CNN.
France has immediately called for a United Nations Security Council meeting to discuss the threat posed by the militant group in Iraq.
Thousands of Christians have reportedly fled from the city just like other minorities targeted by the group including, Shia Muslims.
Qaraqosh is a historic Assyrian town about 20 miles southeast of militant-occupied Mosul and is home to almost 50,000 people.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app