Iraqi Christian U.S. Interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat Killed in Syria

BAKHDIDA / MICHIGAN / SYRIA - Ayad Mansoor Sakat, an Iraqi Christian and U.S. civilian interpreter who served alongside American forces during the Iraq War, was killed in Syria on December 13, 2025. He was 54 years old.

Sakat was born in Bakhdida (Qaraqosh), one of Iraq’s historic Christian towns, and worked as an interpreter with the U.S. Army from 2003 to 2007 during the Iraq invasion. His service played a critical role in protecting U.S. soldiers and facilitating communication during some of the most dangerous years of the conflict.

Sakat later resettled in Michigan through the U.S. Special Immigrant Visa program, a pathway created for Iraqi interpreters whose lives were endangered due to their service with American forces. He is remembered by fellow soldiers as dependable, courageous, and deeply respected. Many referred to him by the nickname “Eddie,” reflecting the close bonds he formed during his service.

According to U.S. officials, Sakat was killed in an attack in Palmyra, Syria, while supporting U.S. forces engaged in counter-ISIS operations. Two U.S. Army soldiers were also killed in the same incident, and several others were wounded. The attack remains under investigation, with preliminary assessments indicating ISIS involvement.

President Donald Trump attended a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, honoring Sakat and the fallen U.S. service members. Images from the ceremony showed flag-draped transfer cases as military honor guards rendered final respects.

He is survived by his wife, Manahel Daau, and their four daughters: Zeena, Leena, Dina, and Farah.

For Chaldeans and Iraqi Christians, Ayad Mansoor Sakat’s death is a painful reminder of the disproportionate sacrifices made by Middle Eastern Christians, first in Iraq, and now across the region; often serving on the front lines of conflicts not of their making.

Chaldean Press extends its deepest condolences to the Sakat family and honors the memory of a man whose life was defined by service, sacrifice, and love for his family.