“This rise in hate speech, sparked by a broader reaction to remarks from a Yazidi leader, highlights the pressing need to address and prevent such divisive rhetoric and protect vulnerable communities,” Gharizi added.

In the words of Yazidi activist and human rights champion Samia Shankali, the mounting threats constitute a “psychological war.” Rana Hassan Qasem, the deputy director of the Sinjar municipality, described a climate of pervasive fear.

“The mood and psychological state…