Ishtar TV.com – Special Report

The Chaldean, Syriac and Assyrian people celebrate Syriac Press Day on November 1 every year. This year marks its 177th anniversary, commemorating the publication of the first issue of Zahrira d-Bahra (ܙܗܪܝܪܐ ܕܒܗܪܐ), meaning “Rays of Light,” on November 1, 1849, in the city of Urmia, Iran.

The newspaper is regarded as a foundational milestone in the history of modern Syriac journalism. Its publication marked the beginning of a new chapter in the use of the press as a means of disseminating knowledge, culture and literature, while strengthening awareness of the Syriac language, identity and heritage.

“Zahrira d-Bahra”: A Historic Beginning

The publication of Zahrira d-Bahra in 1849 was a significant event in the history of the Chaldean, Syriac and Assyrian people. It helped pave the way for the development of Syriac-language journalism, providing a platform for news, ideas, and cultural and literary contributions.

The newspaper's early history is closely associated with Malphono Benjamin Labari, who served as its editor and helped launch this pioneering journalistic venture, which left a lasting mark on the subsequent development of Syriac media.

The Role of Syriac Journalism in Preserving Identity

For more than a century and three quarters, Syriac journalism has played an important role in preserving the language and transmitting cultural and historical heritage to successive generations. It has also provided a space for expressing the concerns and aspirations of the community.

On this occasion, the Free Media Union (YRA) issued a congratulatory statement on Sunday, November 1, 2026, marking the 177th anniversary of Syriac Press Day. The statement praised the role of Syriac journalists, both women and men, and Syriac media institutions in reporting the truth, defending freedom of expression, and promoting a culture of dialogue, pluralism and peaceful coexistence among the components of society.

The statement also paid tribute to the pioneers of Syriac journalism and the martyrs of free media, recognizing their efforts and sacrifices in defense of the free word and the preservation of identity, language and heritage.

Renewed Responsibilities for Syriac Media

This year's Syriac Press Day comes at a time when media institutions face major challenges, foremost among them the digital transformation, the declining use of the Syriac language in some communities, and the need to develop media content and expand its presence across modern platforms.

The occasion remains an opportunity to remember the pioneers who laid the foundations of Syriac journalism and to renew the commitment to carrying forward its mission in serving the Chaldean, Syriac and Assyrian people, defending their language, identity and rights, and bringing their issues to public attention both in their homeland and throughout the diaspora.

Happy Syriac Press Day to all Syriac journalists, media professionals and institutions. May the free word continue to shine as a beacon that preserves memory and identity and carries the truth to future generations.