Anti-Assyrian sentiment

Anti-Assyrian sentiment, also known as anti-Assyrianism and Assyriophobia, is a diverse spectrum of negative feelings, dislikes, fears, aversion, racism, derision and/or prejudice towards Assyrians, Assyria, and Assyrian culture (as well as towards Chaldeans and Syriacs).

Anti-Assyrian sentiment largely manifested itself towards the end of the Ottoman Empire with the Assyrian genocide, and has continued in varying experiences by country where the indigenous Assyrian homeland lies (Iraq, Syria, Turkey, Iran). Notable instances include the Simele massacre, Anfal campaign, assimilation campaigns (Arabization, Kurdification, Turkification), and persecution under ISIS.

Anti-Assyrian sentiment is also largely fueled by an Anti-Christian sentiment, suggesting that some manifestations of Assyriophobia may not inherently be due to their distinct ethnicity. In regards to anti-Assyrian sentiment geared towards ethnicity, common expressions consist of glorification of those who took hand in Assyrian massacres, denial of Assyrian identity and continuity, and promoting separatism amongst religious lines. Anti-Assyrianism also shares parallels with Anti-Armenianism through threats, intimidations, killings, and destruction of cultural heritage.