Threats Against The Sabaean-Mandeans In Basra

"I thought to complete my trilogy of threats against different sectors of Basra's "good old days" society by shading light on the dangers facing the Sabaean-Mandeans in Basra. To refresh your memory, read back my earlier posts on threats against Sunnis and against Christians in Basra.

In the good old days, Basrawi Sabaeans were known for being the best jewelers in town. You want the best golden bracelet or necklace, you check with your favorite Sabaean jeweler at Al-Maghayiz market and you would most likely find what you were looking for.

Religiously, they're known as the followers of John The Baptist. They wear a cross partially covered with a cloak. The Iraqi Christians call them "cousins" because of the relationship between Jesus and John the Baptist. They're definitely one of the most peaceful minorities in Iraq.

Like the rest of other minorities, they have been under the threats of the thugs ruling Basra for the last three years. I follow their news by reading Basra's dispatches on Ankawa online. Their temple was attacked a few weeks ago. Members of their community are being forced to leave Basra under different types of threats. The latest threat was against Abu Alaa:"
Fayrouz in Beaumont