18. Iraq
Region
Middle East
Christian population
187 000 (0.4%)
Main relegion
Islam
Main threats
• Islamic oppression
• Clan oppression
• Organised corruption and crime
• Dictatorial paranoia
Historical and Evangelical churches alike in Iraq face threats of violence, intolerance and discrimination, especially from Islamic extremists and non-Christian leaders. They also experience discrimination from government agencies. Iraqi Christians who convert from Islam face pressure from their families and society and risk violence and loss of rights.
The main pressure on Iraqi Christians comes from Iranian-backed Shia militias. Turkish and Iranian military operations in Iraqi Kurdistan, targeting the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), have severely damaged Christian villages, driving many believers from their homes.
In April 2025, an attack was carried out by a supporter of the Islamic State group during an Assyrian New Year parade, injuring two Christians. In addition, Christian civilians in Iraq repeatedly report seizures of their property by influential political, economic and social groups. This is a problem the Iraqi government has struggled to resolve for more than two decades. Finally, three converts from Islam to Christianity were killed for their faith.
Total score
79%
Pressure
86.1%
Violence
43.3%
Please pray
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Ask God to protect those who convert to Christianity from Islam from harm and to help them know they are not alone.
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Pray that believers would be able to be salt and light and that God would bless those called to stay.
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Pray for the victims of an attack in April 2025 and that the roots of hatred shown towards Christians would be changed by Jesus’ overwhelming love.