The Christian community in Mosul, Iraq was targeted in recent days in brutal attacks that some believe are motivated by the upcoming March 7 parliamentary elections. On February 13, Sabah al Dahhan was kidnapped by a gang that has since demanded a large sum of money for his release. The next day, Rayan Bashir Salem was shot and killed in his home by armed assailants. Rayan's brother was also wounded in the attack. On February 15, a 42-year old believer, Najim Abdullah Fatoukhi, was murdered in front of his fruit and vegetable shop in a drive-by shooting. Two Christian university students, Zayid Thomas (21) and Ramsen Shamyael (22), were shot by a gunman on February 16. Zayid died from his wounds and Ramsen was injured. The following day, another Christian student, Wissam Georges (20), was shot multiple times while on his way to teachers' college. (Sources: AsiaNews, AFP, The Christian Post)

Pray for the friends and family members mourning the loss of these believers. Pray that the Christian community in Mosul will not be fearful but trust God (Revelation 2:10). Pray that Sabah will be released from his captors unharmed. Pray for protection and stability for other Iraqi believers as the elections approach.

You can find out more about the plight of Iraqi Christians at the Iraq Country Report.