Baghdad Jews: Exodus or extinction?

[IndianaGreen]

Baghdad Jews: Exodus or extinction?
By Lawrence Smallman in Baghdad

Saturday 18 October 2003, 23:08 Makka Time, 20:08 GMT

The Jews of Baghdad trace their presence in Iraq to the court of Nebuchadnezzar and ancient Babylon.

But a history that spans 2600 years is unlikely to last another 20.

The community that once boasted numerous synagogues and played a major role in the skilled trades have lost all hope.

There are fewer than 20 Jews living in Baghdad, almost all to be found in the al-Bitawin district. Down from over 125,000 less than 60 years ago.

http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/659CDE88-06D1-4457-8551-61C0CFAA38FD.htm