The Jews of Iraq

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Iraq, officially named since 1932, has a rich history that includes names like Mesopotamia, Babylon, and Assyria, and has been home to various racial and religious minorities. The Jewish exile to Babylon began in 586 BC after Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Jerusalem. This region, known as the "Fertile Crescent," is recognized as the "birthplace of human civilization" and the origin of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Alisa Douer highlights the enduring presence of Jews in Iraq, who contributed to society for over 2,600 years. Their departure was not voluntary; they were forced to leave after the establishment of Israel and the Arab-Israeli War in 1948, mirroring the fate of about one million Jews across the Arab world. The Jewish community in Iraq, predominantly Sephardic, coexisted peacefully with other ethnic and religious groups. However, upon relocating to Israel, they faced discrimination and challenges in adapting to a society dominated by Ashkenazi Jews from Eastern and Central Europe. Despite these hurdles, the integration of Iraqi Jews into Israeli society stands as a notable success story.