In an Instagram post on January 11th, independent Assyrian news publication "The Word" announced their ceasing of operations. The message was subsequently posted on The Word's website. In the announcement, independent Assyrian journalist Yasmeen Altaji, who was The Word's founder and editor, stated that "In its time, The Word covered hundreds of stories across formats and geographies for thousands of readers. From breaking urgent news out of Iraq and Syria to reporting local art and culture across the Assyrian diaspora, this coverage would not have been possible without those willing to share their stories and those who turned to our platform to read, watch and listen to them. We’re deeply grateful."
"Thank you for being part of this chapter of independent Assyrian journalism"
The statement does not give any reasons as to the reason for the shutdown. "To members of our community who have followed The Word since its inception and to those who joined later on: Thank you for being part of this chapter of independent Assyrian journalism", the message concluded.
The Word was founded on January 11th, 2021 on the initiative of Altaji. The news publication focused exclusively on Assyrian news, highlighting political and community developments. The Word also hosted a podcast known as "The Weekly," a podcast delivering news in a spoken format. After Episode 220 on 10 April 2025, Altaji stated that The Weekly would be going on a short break, with no activity for the rest of the year.
Altaji is a multimedia journalist reporting on politics, policy, and culture of the Middle East and North Africa. Having earned her M.A. in Journalism with a concentration on Politics from Columbia University, she currently works as a podcast producer for The National News. Per Altaji's announcement, all work previously published on The Word will remain accessible in an archived status.
The lack of sufficient revenues and financial support has forced several Assyrian news outlets to shut down over the years, among them Zindamagazine and Assyrian National Broadcasting (ANB Sat), which shut down its satellite broadcasting and remains only as a Facebook page.
