New Book on Kidnapping of Former Relief Organization Leader Released

Alexandre Goodarzy.  Kidnapped in Iraq. Manchester, NH: Sophia Institute Press, 2022. Paperback $21.95. Ebook $9.99. Available from the publisher.

Alexandre Goodarzy, a former history and geography teacher from France, Goodarzy became head of the SOS Christians in the Middle East for Syria. He has aided persecuted Christians there, and refugees throughout the Middle East.

Goodarzy’s firsthand account of relief trips to Syria in places like Jazira, Aleppo, Damascus, Palmyra and Maardeh, amidst up close dangers and fighting, reveal the shocking never before told truths of the horrors perpetrated in Syria by Islamists.

He knows these terrors all too well. In January 2020, Goodarzy was kidnapped by radical Iraqi Islamists during a hazardous twelve-hour bus ride from Damascus to Aleppo. In Kidnapped in Iraq: A Christian Humanitarian Tells His Story, Goodarzy describes this sixty-six day experience as a hostage through the lens of faith.

Readers can learn more about his ordeal and the book on “The Buff Show.”

In this enthralling account, readers will learn about the: 

• State of affairs in Syria, including the plight of the youth and educational system
• Persecution and devastation of Christian Churches in Syria
• Bewilderment of French citizens and their desire for purpose 
• Threat of Islamists and the history of Middle Eastern Christians 
• Joy and fulfillment that come from the commitment to help others 
• Inspiring true stories of courage to keep promises, especially when it is difficult

Since Islam dominated in the 600s, Eastern Christians are forced to pay taxes, and victimized by slavery, persecution, rape, and massacres. The first genocide of the 21st century occurred in Kurdistan, during World War I. Many refugees from Iraq have gone to Jordan and other countries, where they are in need of assistance. Goodarzy has aided terrorized Christians there and in Pakistan, Armenia, and Ethiopia.

Through recollections of survivors, Goodarzy clarifies the truth of the horrors perpetrated in Syria and becomes a “warrior” for peace. He also relates the concern of Christians in Iraq and Syria that the threat of radical Islam would spread to France and other Western countries.

Most significantly, readers will find true stories of valor in keeping promises, especially when it is difficult. They will be motivated to take a stand and act justly and courageously even in the direst situations.

Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Institute Press’ Director of Publicity, Sarah Lemieux at slemieux@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a physical or digital copy of Kidnapped in Iraq, and/or to schedule an interview.