A wave of attacks on churches and Christians viewed as infidels or collaborators is generating alarm among a Christian community that has long lived in relative peace alongside Iraq’s Muslim majority. Growing antagonism from Islamic extremists and insurgents has driven tens of thousands of Iraqi Christians from the country in the last 18 months, and many more are planning to emigrate.

"We are crying tears of blood in grief for what is happening in Iraq," said Khayri Estayfan Abona, a 44-year-old mechanical engineer and father of three who was among a number of Christians lined up at a passport office here. "We are weak and helpless, so we are made into scapegoats."

In the northern city of Mosul, home to a large Christian population, leaflets from self-described mujahedin warned women to cover their faces and dress conservatively during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Christian students at Mosul University boycotted classes last month after threats from extremists. Rumors have spread of expropriation of Christian property. Graffiti have warned Christians to leave or face death.

"Muslims and Christians have been living together on this land for more than a millennium, as brothers living in one homeland," declared several Christian groups in a public appeal issued last month seeking support from Muslims. "The blood of Christians mixed with the blood of Muslims in defending this land."

Source [LA Times]