(BEIRUT, LEBANON) — Maronite Patriarch Beshara Rai called for dialogue with the Islamic State of Iraq and Greater Syria, also known as ISIS, on Wednesday.
“Humanity is the only thing we share with you,” said Rai in a speech to the Episcopal Media Committee. “Let’s talk and reach an understanding on this basis — you rely on the language of arms, terrorism, violence, and influence, but we rely on the language of dialogue, understanding, and respect for others.”
ISIS has strengthened its control over Iraq’s second largest city by imposing Sharia law and threatening Christians who won’t convert, forcing thousands to flee their hometowns.
Lebanese politicians from across the divide condemned the persecution of Christians by ISIS and Speaker Nabih Berri has called for a parliamentary session on July 26 in solidarity with Christians in Mosul.