Islamic State Imposes Tax on Christians in Iraq; Rapes All Women in Homes That Don't Pay Tax

The newly declared Islamic State (IS) -- comprised of land it seized last month from Iraq and Syria -- has been brutally enforcing Islamic laws in Mosul, Iraq, the Worthy News website reports today (July 4, 2014).

Islam's prophet, Muhammad, had decreed that people of other religions had to pay a poll tax to Muslims as a reminder of their inferior status. Salama al Khafaji -- a member of the High Commission -- said IS was imposing a minimum payment of $250 upon all Christians in Mosul.

"The economic situation in Mosul is extremely difficult, and there are no financial resources, or job opportunities except for vegetable shops; any other businesses are non-existent," said al Khafaji. "Citizens are at a loss now as to how to make ends meet."

According to al Khafaji, when IS members entered the home of an Assyrian family in Mosul to demand their tribute, the family protested because they didn't have the money. So instead, IS members raped the mother and daughter in front of the head of the household, who was so traumatized by the attack that he later committed suicide.