Pakistani acid attack victim becomes U.S. citizen

Washington, Aug 1 (ANI): A woman has officially become a U.S. citizen almost a decade after being brutally attacked for being a Christian in Pakistan.

Julie Aftab, who traveled to the U.S. for treatment after an acid attack, and had to have several surgeries, now lives in Houston, Texas.

Aftab took her naturalization oath with about 2,240 other immigrants, reports CBS News.

"I never thought I would be the person I am today, and it is all because of God and his people," Aftab was quoted, as saying.

Aftab was 16 years old and working at a small store when a man approached her and asked about the cross around her neck. When she said she was Christian, the man yelled at her for insulting Islam. He left, but returned with another man and threw battery acid on her face, holding her head back and pouring it down her throat.

The acid instantly burned through her skin and much of her esophagus. Aftab also lost an eye and ear. Because the man claimed she committed blasphemy, her family was shunned and it was difficult for them to find a hospital to take her in.

An American bishop brought Aftab to the United States for treatment, where doctors repaired her cheek, eyelids and skin. She now lives in Houston with a host family. (ANI)