April 25, 2002

The Honorable William Burns
Assistant Secretary of state for Near Eastern Affairs
U.S. Department of State
2201 C. Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20520

Dear Mr. Secretary

I understand that a majority of American Citizens of Iraqi descent are of Assyrian extraction. Assyrian-Americans have by and large been in this country for some time but retain, as do many Americans, links of concern, family, and affections with their ancestral homelands. I share their concerns.

I write to inquire about the treatment of the Assyrian community under the current Iraq regime as it relates to the reported suppression of their cultural and religious traditions. For example, does the fact that the Assyrians of Iraq are Christians detrimentally affect their well being? Is it true, for example, that they are required to use Islamic names and forbidden to use traditional cultural or religious names? What protections are the Assyrian people enjoying under Operation Northern Watch? What aid has been afforded to them by the United States? How will the political and human rights concerns of the Assyrians factor into any future Iraqi political equation, especially in Northern Iraq?

As you know, I remain a steadfast supporter of President Bush's policy of promoting regime change in Iraq. I hope that as the Administration proceeds to implement this policy, it will be mindful of the unique concerns of the Assyrian community, as well as the concerns of other ethnic groups in Iraq.

I appreciate your consideration of these questions and look forward to receiving your response.

Sincerely,
Henry J. Hyde
Chairman,
Committee on International Relations
House of Representatives