(Photo courtesy Open Doors USA via Facebook)
Syria (MNN/Open Doors) — Assyrian Christians are rejoicing following the release of 10 of their number from Islamic State jihadists, Tuesday.
The five men and five women were taken from their communities in Northeastern Syria in February during raids in which ISIS kidnapped 253 indigenous Christians and drove 3,000 Assyrians from their villages, according to Assyrian Human Rights Network.
Open Doors USA confirmed the hostages were released as part of ongoing negotiations. All 10 are said to be in good health, according to AHRN.
Earlier this year, Islamic Fundamentalists drove 3,000 Assyrians from their homes, capturing 253 Christians from villages along the Khabur River. ISIS has since released 95 hostages, most of whom were sick and elderly, according to Open Doors.
While the release of these hostages is good news, ISIS is still in the habit of killing the followers of Christ. In October, the group killed three hostages, videotaping their deaths. The group threatened to kill more people if their demands were not met.
Open Doors is working to feed and house the Christians who have been displaced by ISIS. The California-based organization dedicated to meeting the physical needs of believers living in religiously oppressive countries. Open Doors is seeking your help to combat the rising wave of violence against Christians through prayer, advocacy of those persecuted, and donations to help them with their physical needs.
