BAN ON ALCOHOL ANGERS CHRISTIAN MINORITY

Iraq’s parliament has passed a law forbidding the import, production or selling of alcoholic beverages in a surprise move that has angered many in the country’s Christian community who re- ly on the business. The law, passed late Saturday night, imposes a fine of up to 25 million Iraqi dinars, or $29,000, for anyone violating the ban.

Islam forbids the consumption of al- cohol, but it has always been available in Iraq’s larger cities, mainly from shops run by Christians. Iraq’s parliament is dominated by Shiite Islamist parties.

“This ban is unconstitutional, as the constitution acknowledges the rights of non-Muslim minorities and ethnic groups who live alongside Muslims in Iraq,” Christian lawmaker Joseph Slaiwa said.