This comprehensive document traces the ancient history of the Jews of Kurdistan, exploring their traditional origins from Israelite exiles and their life under various empires through the medieval and early modern periods. It highlights their unique cultural identity, preserved through their Judeo-Aramaic language and traditions like the Saharaneh festival, and examines aspects of their society, religious life, and interactions with neighboring communities before their mass migration. The text particularly focuses on the mid-20th century exodus, detailing the deteriorating conditions, especially in Iraq, that led to the large-scale airlift operation known as Operation Ezra and Nehemiah, which moved most Kurdish Jews to Israel. Finally, it analyzes their experience in Israel up to 2010, describing their settlement, integration challenges, and efforts to maintain their distinct heritage while forming transnational connections back to Kurdistan.
Note: This was made with AI research and AI audio output, and does not conform to academic standards. However, sources are confirmed as genuine.
This page was created on: May 12, 2025 and last updated: