Authorities in southeastern Turkey recently paused the construction of a mosque in the historic village of Zaz, which has a predominantly Syriac population. The decision came after local Syriac groups voiced their concerns, particularly due to the village’s unique demographics, where only one Muslim family resides. This issue highlights deeper socio-political tensions in the region and raises questions about the future of the Syriac community and their historical settlements.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Concerns Raised Over Mosque Construction |
| 2) Community Dynamics and Historical Background |
| 3) Religious and Cultural Intimidation |
| 4) The Impact on Population and Heritage |
| 5) The Future of Zaz and Its Inhabitants |
Concerns Raised Over Mosque Construction
The halt in the mosque construction project emerged after George Aslan, a Syriac MP representing the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, expressed apprehensions about the building’s necessity within the village. In January 2025, Aslan publicly questioned the rationale behind erecting a mosque in a village where the Muslim population is minimal, with only a single family identified as Muslim residents. The MP highlighted that the project had failed to align with substantial community support, a sentiment echoed by local Syriac groups who fear the mosque would further marginalize their historically rooted presence in the area.
Following Aslan’s advocacy, which involved mobilizing local Syriac individuals in Turkey and abroad, the construction was temporally stopped by local officials, including the Mardin governor and the Midyat mayor. Aslan noted that although various stakeholders have recognized the situation, genuine concerns regarding the community’s future continue to be predominant, with apprehensions that constructing a mosque could symbolize the diminishing rights of the Syriac people.
Community Dynamics and Historical Background
The village of Zaz, now referred to officially as İzbırak, has a profound historical significance as a Syriac settlement. Once predominantly inhabited by the Syriac population, it is now home to remnants of its past. The area, which houses the Mor Dimet Church, dates back to the early 5th century, indicated by Akkadian cuneiform inscriptions on stones, suggesting a rich pre-Christian history. The ongoing presence of such historical landmarks points to a heritage that extends beyond mere demographics.
With an estimated population decline due to the Assyrian genocide during World War I, common knowledge suggests that the Syriac population, now residing chiefly in Turkey, has remained between 20,000 and 50,000. Long-standing conflicts have forced many Syriacs to flee internationally, causing fear and loss. Historical narratives indicate that a feudal family previously settled in Zaz, which perpetuated a culture of fear among the locals, fostering a climate where many could no longer express their identity freely.
Religious and Cultural Intimidation
A 2019 report from the Human Rights Association (İHD) exposed various acts of intimidation faced by the Syriac community in regions surrounding Midyat, emphasizing fears of harassment and threats from unidentified individuals. Notably, the situation of Sister Verde Gökmen, a nun, illustrated the challenges faced by religious figures in maintaining their presence. Reportedly, she endured repeated verbal assaults, and her complaints to local authorities were inadequately addressed due to the lack of witnesses, revealing systemic issues in the protection of minority communities.
The report also highlighted instances of land seizures, where armed tribal groups allegedly targeted properties owned by Syriacs. Damage to churches and other cultural heritage sites has prompted concerns regarding the preservation of their identity and history. Such actions are perceived by locals, including Aslan, as methods of intimidation designed to discourage Syriacs from reclaiming their ancestral lands and connecting with their heritage.
The Impact on Population and Heritage
The prospect of a mosque’s construction in Zaz could have long-lasting implications for the Syriac community. As Aslan pointed out, the perceived normalization of a mosque in a once-kosher environment might dissuade many Syriacs from considering a return to their homeland. This could further entrench existing population declines and ultimately erase historical narratives tied to places like Zaz. Syriacs already face significant challenges regarding their identity and sense of belonging, and economic conditions have compounded these issues as well.
The poignant circumstances faced by Hatune Doğan, who returned to Zaz after decades of exile, illustrate the stark realities. After planting olive saplings in her garden, she witnessed their destruction at the hands of unknown individuals, a situation she described calling it “the work of the devil, not of humans.” Her experience reflects broader sentiments of exasperation among returning community members, emphasizing a yearning for stability against a backdrop of ongoing threats.
The Future of Zaz and Its Inhabitants
The fate of Zaz rests upon the sustained engagement of local and international observers with a vested interest in the rights of the Syriac people. The mosque’s construction reflects underlying tensions in the region regarding identity politics and the acknowledgment of minority rights. Advocates argue that fostering dialogue among communities and recognizing the historical narratives connected to the land may pave the way for a mutually beneficial resolution.
The culture and traditions of the Syriac people deserve respect and affirmation amidst these socio-political challenges. Enhancing awareness of their struggles can prompt necessary interventions by authorities to preserve their rights and heritage. Without a concerted effort to address such grievances, the future for both Zaz and its residents may continue to be shrouded in uncertainty.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | Construction of a mosque in Zaz is halted due to local opposition. |
| 2 | Only one Muslim family resides in the village, questioned the mosque’s necessity. |
| 3 | Historical significance of Zaz underscores tension over minority rights. |
| 4 | Reports of intimidation faced by the Syriac community highlight ongoing fears. |
| 5 | The future of Zaz’s population and heritage depends on community recognition and dialogue. |
Summary
The recent pause in mosque construction in Zaz reflects broader issues surrounding minority rights, historical tensions, and the future of the Syriac community. With only a single Muslim family in the village, the necessity of a mosque is contentious. Acts of intimidation against the Syriac population raise concerns about cultural heritage preservation. Moving forward, it is crucial to address these grievances and foster dialogue among communities to work towards a resolution that honors the rich history and identity of the Syriacs. Neglecting to do so may leave Zaz’s future uncertain, endangering the survival of its ethnic and cultural identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Why was the mosque construction halted?
The construction was paused after local Syriac groups expressed opposition, highlighting that there is minimal Muslim presence in the village, leading to concerns over the necessity of the mosque.
Question: What concerns do local Syriacs have regarding the mosque?
Local Syriacs fear that the mosque’s presence could further intimidate them and discourage their return to the village, thereby diminishing their historical ties to the land.
Question: How does the history of Zaz impact the current situation?
Zaz, a once predominantly Syriac village, has a significant historical background, marked by past atrocities such as the Assyrian genocide. The community’s trauma and diminishing population intensify the current debates about their future and rights in the region.
