Chaldeans Around the World

As the sun was setting over Ankawa, locals, expats and returnees gathered at the Space, where an art exhibition by a young artist from Mosul was being held. The visitors reflected the diverse membership of this coworking space, founded by the NGO ”The Return”, which supports the ongoing return movement in Iraq.

The Congregation of the Daughters of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the Chaldean women’s religious communities in Iraq. Founded and rooted in the country, it has carried out an uninterrupted mission of service for decades despite wars, displacement, and profound loss.

Over the past 20 years, the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce and the Chaldean Community Foundation, along with other community organizations, have built an outstanding reputation anchored in capability, credibility, and consistency. That strong and reliable reputation has made Chaldean organizations in Michigan and across the United States effective influencers — and a first stop for visiting politicians, officials and delegations from Iraq and beyond.

Saadi Al Saihood, an Iraqi businessman and prominent philanthropist, was born in Baghdad in 1954. A father of three sons and a daughter, his family hails from the province of Amara. He began his career humbly, selling newspapers at age 11 while attending school part-time and taking night classes. He also helped with his father’s laundromat business, which he named The White Robe, inspired by the film The Robe.

The U.S. military has completed the transfer of thousands of Islamic State group detainees from Syria to Iraq, where they are expected to stand trial in the future, the U.S. Central Command said Friday. CENTCOM said that the transfer that began on Jan. 21 saw U.S. forces transporting more than 5,700 adult male IS suspects from detention facilities in Syria to Iraqi custody. The prisoners were transferred to Iraq at the request of Baghdad — a move welcomed by the U.S.-led coalition that had for years fought against IS.

BAGHDAD (AP) — U.S. forces have fully withdrawn from an air base in western Iraq in implementation of an agreement with the Iraqi government, Iraqi officials said. Washington and Baghdad agreed in 2024 to wind down a U.S.-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group in Iraq by September 2025, with U.S. forces departing bases where they had been stationed.

As part of our coverage of the history of the Chaldean people and the regions where they have lived, I had the honor of interviewing His Excellency Bishop Mar Habib Hormuz Nawfli, shepherd of the Chaldean Diocese of Basra and the South, and apostolic visitor to Europe. He shared insights into the Chaldean community’s historical presence in Basra, its spiritual and cultural life, and the challenges it faces today.

The Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) Iraq Mission has been closely monitoring the 2025 national parliamentary elections. With permanent staff in the Nineveh Plain and ongoing work and visits in the region, the CCF has established strong relationships with political leadership.

On September 7, 2025, in Saint Peter’s Square, Vatican City, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV canonized a teenager laid to rest in a blue tracksuit and a pair of Nike sneakers. Saint Carlo Acutis—born in 1991 and returned to the bosom of the Lord at just 15—was declared a saint alongside now Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati.

Jonny “Magic” Mansour, 25, is a boxer on the rise. His Instagram account names him “God’s Chosen Warrior,” and he’s currently 5-0 in the ring. He recently had the opportunity to visit the land of his ancestors; his parents are both from Alqosh in the Nineveh Plains of northern Iraq.

The Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) is honoring Hungary Helps as its 2025 Humanitarian of the Year, recognizing Hungary’s extraordinary role in supporting persecuted Christians in Iraq. Through its Hungary Helps Program (HHP), the Hungarian government has become the world’s leading state-level advocate for Christian minorities, providing more aid to Christians in Iraq than any other nation.

Governor Abdul Qader Al-Dakhil of Nineveh has been actively working to support the return of Christians to the province through a combination of infrastructure projects, cultural initiatives, and direct engagement with the community.

The Iraqi Chaldean community gathered in solemn remembrance of the tragic Soria Massacre of 1969, honoring the 39 innocent lives lost to a brutal military attack. The event was organized by the Chaldean Democratic Union Party in cooperation with the Chaldean Diocese of Zakho, with the participation of local clergy, faithful from surrounding towns, and expatriates from the United States and Europe.

For over 150 years, the remarkable story of a Chaldean woman from the Nineveh Plains who became part of the ruling dynasty during 19th-century Afghanistan was largely forgotten or perhaps intentionally concealed in my family’s historical narrative.

On June 18, 2025, history was made in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. For the first time, after decades of dreaming, the Chaldean Catholic community in that region walked into their very own church. The consecration of St. John the Apostle Chaldean Catholic Church was more than just a ceremony, it was the answer to years of prayers, hope, and countless sacrifices.

University of Detroit Mercy’s College of Health Professions has formed a new partnership with the American University of Iraq Baghdad (AUIB) to create educational opportunities in healthcare, public health and healthcare administration for students in the Middle East.

BEIRUT (AP) — The World Bank said Wednesday it approved over $1 billion dollars for infrastructure and reconstruction projects in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon. The biggest amount went to Iraq, where the World Bank approved $930 million to help improve the country's railway infrastructure, boost domestic trade, create jobs and diversify the economy.

Dr. Ali Eli, a university professor with a Ph.D. in accounting, is a well-known figure in Nasiriyah, his birthplace and the historic city of Ur—the ancient homeland of the Chaldeans. His Facebook page proudly displays images of the Chaldean flag and Pope Francis, reflecting the deep Chaldean heritage he uncovered later in life.

On the morning of Tuesday, June 18, 2025, sorrow swept over the town of Alqosh and touched every Chaldean household in Iraq and the diaspora. The faithful mourned the passing of His Excellency Bishop Mar Paulus Thabet Habib Mako, shepherd of the Chaldean Diocese of Alqosh, who died at the age of 49. He devoted his life to his faith and the Church, walking alongside his people through both hardship and peace.

Several close U.S. allies urged a return to the negotiating table following American strikes on Iran that fueled fears of a wider conflict, while noting the threat posed by Tehran’s nuclear program. Some countries and groups in the region, including those that support Iran, condemned the move while also urging de-escalation.

Media personalities, known for their work in television, radio or online platforms, often use their names, programs and chosen topics to connect with audiences, building strong personal brands and influence. One such figure is Kamal Yaldo, the presenter of Spotlight on Iraq.

On May 9, 2025, the third annual Alqosh Old Market Festival took place under the patronage of the Parish of Mar Gewargis Church. The event drew wide participation from local residents as well as members of the diaspora who returned from abroad to celebrate their cultural roots.

Thousands of miles of distance and cultural differences were never an obstacle for the true and patriotic sons of their homeland to express their love and pride for their motherland, Iraq. This was exemplified by a delegation representing the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce, the Chaldean Community Foundation, and the Assyrian Chamber of Commerce, led by Mr. Martin Manna, who decided to visit their homeland in response to an invitation extended to them by the Prime Minister of Iraq, Mr. Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani.

He’s been a pope like no other. Pope Francis, the 266th Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church, has been a figure of profound transformation and spiritual renewal ever since his election in 2013. A man known for his deep empathy and commitment to social justice, he has earned the affectionate titles “The People’s Pope” and “Pope of the 99%.” Beneath the headlines, Pope Francis’ story is one of faith, humility, and a passion for service.

In 2023, the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce (CACC) celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of dedicated advocacy for the Chaldean community in Michigan and worldwide. Building on this significant milestone, the CACC has expanded its efforts, placing a special focus on the plight of Iraq’s Christian communities.

A delegation led by Martin Manna visited Baghdad in mid-February for a series of meetings that began with Prime Minister Sudani and separately, the President of the Republic. The focus of these meetings and many others was to continue to push for the rights, dignity, and full integration into society of Iraq’s indigenous Christian community.

The ancient Chaldean town of Alqosh is a town in the Nineveh Plains of northern Iraq, a sub-district of the Tel Kaif district situated 45 km north of the city of Mosul.

Mosul, meaning “the linking point” in Arabic, serves as a vital connector between Iraq and Syria. Known historically as Nineveh, the city is named after an Assyrian goddess associated with fish. One of the world’s oldest cities, Mosul has been a strategic crossroads for millennia, facilitating the movement of diverse peoples, ethnicities, and religions, including some of the world’s oldest Christian communities.

The history of the Chaldeans in Iraq has always been intertwined with its sacred landmarks and monasteries, which tell stories of faith and resilience through the generations.

لطالما‭ ‬ارتبط‭ ‬تاريخ‭ ‬الكلدان‭ ‬في‭ ‬العراق‭ ‬بمعالمه‭ ‬المقدّسة‭ ‬وأديرته‭ ‬التي‭ ‬تحكي‭ ‬قصص‭ ‬الإيمان‭ ‬والصمود‭ ‬عبر‭ ‬الأجيال‭. ‬ولكن‭ ‬في‭ ‬هذا‭ ‬المقال،‭ ‬ننطلق‭ ‬في‭ ‬رحلة‭ ‬مختلفة‭ ‬إلى‭ ‬قلب‭ ‬مؤسسة‭ ‬روحية‭ ‬عريقة‭: ‬الرهبنة‭ ‬الأنطونية‭ ‬الهرمزدية‭ ‬الكلدانية‭. ‬هذه‭ ‬الرهبنة،‭ ‬رغم‭ ‬استقلالها‭ ‬عن‭ ‬الهيكل‭ ‬الكنسي‭ ‬التقليدي،‭ ‬تُشكّل‭ ‬رافدًا‭ ‬مكمّلًا‭ ‬للرسالة‭ ‬الروحية‭ ‬والثقافية‭ ‬للكنيسة‭ ‬الكلدانية‭.‬

On the ruins of an ancient mound and its surroundings lies the city of Tel Keppe, named after this very mound. Its history traces back to the several centuries before Christ, evidenced by artifacts excavated there, specifically on the site of the current cemetery.

In a world often marked by division and misunderstanding, Matthew Howard, a seasoned communications professional and executive producer of Common Home TV, is on a mission to amplify the voices of those working for peace and justice.

على‭ ‬أطلال‭ ‬تل‭ ‬أثري‭ ‬ومحيطه،‭ ‬تقع‭ ‬مدينة‭ ‬تلكيف‭ ‬التي‭ ‬تستمد‭ ‬اسمها‭ ‬من‭ ‬هذا‭ ‬التل‭. ‬يعود‭ ‬تاريخها‭ ‬إلى‭ ‬قرون‭ ‬عديدة‭ ‬قبل‭ ‬الميلاد،‭ ‬بدليل‭ ‬القطع‭ ‬الأثرية‭ ‬التي‭ ‬وجدها‭ ‬المنقبون‭ ‬في‭ ‬ذلك‭ ‬التل،‭ ‬الذي‭ ‬هو‭ ‬المقبرة‭ ‬الحالية‭. ‬اسمها‭ ‬في‭ ‬اللغة‭ ‬الكلدانية‭ ‬“تل‭ ‬كيبي”،‭ ‬ويقابلها‭ ‬“تل‭ ‬الحجارة”‭ ‬باللغة‭ ‬العربية‭. ‬كانت‭ ‬تسمى‭ ‬“شبيتيان‭.‬

On Sunday, September 22, Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) President Martin Manna visited with Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani at the annual United National General Assembly in New York City.

The Consul General of the Republic of Hungary, Balasz Martonffy, based in Chicago, Illinois, visited the Chaldean Community Foundation on Friday, October 4 while he was in Michigan to learn about the activities and programs of the Chaldean Community Foundation.

Around this time last year, the town of Qaraqosh (Bakhdida) was shaken by a tragic event that its residents will remember for years to come. A fire broke out during a wedding in a hall, resulting in the deaths of dozens, most of whom were from the same families. Survivors and the injured were left in shock, as the tragedy devastated the community.

The concept of a “global village” has increasingly become a reality, reflected in various international collaborations. In this context, Sterling Heights, Michigan, and Ankawa-Erbil, Iraq, are planning a long-lasting and mutually beneficial sister city relationship. This partnership aims to offer citizens of both cities enriching international and multicultural experiences while broadening their horizons.

“The people of ancient Mesopotamia knew how to appreciate a good beer,” writes Tate Paulette in his book, In the Land of Ninkasi: A History of Beer in Ancient Mesopotamia (Oxford University Press). Paulette, an archaeologist and Associate Professor at North Carolina State University, has conducted extensive fieldwork across several countries, including Syria, Iraq, Egypt, Turkey, Cyprus, Scotland, and the United States. But what exactly led him to write a book on the history of beer in ancient Mesopotamia?

Ramy Noori Syawish, the Chaldean Mayor of Ankawa in Erbil, Iraq, visited Detroit’s Chaldean community in April. His goals were twofold: bridge the divide between homeland and diaspora and recruit well-intentioned Chaldeans to invest in their native country of Iraq.

Ateam of 32 firefighters in northern Iraq was battling to put out a massive fire Thursday, June 13, a day after it broke out at an oil refinery, local officials said. The fire broke out late Wednesday at a large refinery in Irbil, in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq.

A new decision by the Federal Supreme Court of Iraq strips minorities of quota representation in the Kurdistan Parliament and sets a dangerous precedent, signaling a return to discriminatory policies against those who are ethnically, religiously, racially, and linguistically different from the majority in Iraq. By targeting smaller minority groups first, this decision could escalate to affect larger minorities in Iraq. Ultimately, it threatens to revive central political authoritarianism and the majority dictatorship that the Iraqi people fought hard to overcome through decades of struggle and sacrifice. For these reasons, the U.S. Government should urge the Prime Minister of Iraq to introduce legislation in the Parliament to reverse the impact of this decision and to reiterate that the Federal Supreme Court of Iraq is limited by the principles of federalism in Iraq’s Constitution from interfering in matters related to the function of the Kurdistan Region’s parliament. Read the full story

This past March 14 was a significant day for the Christian community of Baqofa, Iraq in the Nineveh Plain. Bishop Mar Thabit led the consecration ceremony of the newly built Virgin Mary Church, an effort that has taken five years. Speaking exclusively to Chaldean News, Bishop Mar Thabit expressed his gratitude towards the generous contributions from various Catholic organizations and compassionate locals, which made the construction of the church possible.