The auxiliary bishop of Baghdad, Bishop Andraos Abouna, has raised concern over the constitution currently being drawn up in Iraq, which could turn Iraq into an Islamic state.

Bishop Abouna warned against the danger of automatic discrimination against non-Muslims that could come about as a result of the new constitution in a letter presented to the British branch of Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), a Catholic Charity.

The letter, signed by leaders of nine Christian denominations, made an urgent call for the equality of all religious groups to be respected.

The letter comes in light of leaders’ fears of oppression amidst reports that Shiite Muslims, which constitute Iraq’s largest religious group, are pressing for a permanent constitution under Shariah law, the body of law based on Islam.

Church leaders are worried that the persecution and discrimination experienced by other Christians under Shariah could also arise in Iraq if such a constitution is passed.