17 arrested after multiple Iraqi women assaulted in Basra, Iraq during New Year’s Eve celebrations.

A viral video clip shows a crowd attacking a young woman during New Year’s Eve celebrations on one of Basra’s busiest streets.

A second clip shows another young woman being attacked. The woman is screaming and distraught, yet the attackers do not stop.

Basra is home to one of Iraq’s oldest Chaldean communities. Many Chaldeans fled years ago due to safety concerns, despite recent calls from officials encouraging return.

Basra Governor Asaad al-Eidani said authorities identified those involved, made arrests, and promised legal action.

Basra once had a strong Christian presence, including a Chaldean Archdiocese. Incidents like this raise renewed questions about protection, accountability, and whether minorities can return safely.