Sema
On the 11th Anniversary of the Ezidi Genocide in Sinjar
Today marks the 11th anniversary of the Ezidi genocide in Sinjar. The Ezidis continue to suffer from the consequences of this genocide, committed by the monsters of this era—ISIS, the terrorist organization of darkness—against innocent, unarmed Ezidis on August 3, 2014.
Now, eleven years later, nearly 3,000 Ezidi women and girls remain missing out of a total of 6,417 who were abducted during the genocide. The families of the abducted still wait with tearful eyes and aching hearts, but there is no sign or trace of their loved ones.
When we say the genocide against us is ongoing, we mean that while all other Iraqi internally displaced persons (IDPs) have returned to their homes after their areas were liberated, more than 20,000 Ezidi families are still living in displacement camps, and their original areas continue to suffer from neglect and lack of stability.
As a result of this genocide, around 200,000 Ezidis have emigrated from Iraq to various countries across the world, seeking safety and dignity.
Let it be known that during our meetings and visits to the governments and parliaments of Arab and foreign countries, we have conveyed the suffering of our people with honesty and sincerity. We have knocked on the doors of the United Nations and various international and regional forums to demand our rights as an ancient religious community and to secure the rights of our martyrs, abductees, and displaced persons.
As a result, several countries have officially recognized the crimes committed against the Ezidis as genocide under international law.
We must also acknowledge and thank all those who have stood by us, supported our cause, and extended a helping hand from the first day of the genocide until now.
We call on all Iraqi and international actors to intensify efforts to uncover the fate of the abducted Ezidi women, to open mass graves, to hold the perpetrators accountable, and to ensure justice. We urge for the provision of security and stability in Ezidi areas to allow for a dignified and safe return of our people to their homeland.
Mercy to our righteous martyrs, freedom for the abducted, justice for the victims’ families, and a dignified, honorable return for the displaced Ezidis.
Prince Hazim Tahsin Beg
Prince of the Ezidis in Iraq and the World
President of the Ezidi Supreme Spiritual Council
August 3, 2025