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Iraq Reclaims 40,000 Stolen Artefacts, Preserving Heritage

10/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Iraq has recovered over 40,000 stolen artefacts since 2003, per the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities.
The recovery shows Iraq's commitment to protecting cultural heritage.
Spokesperson Ahmed Al-Alyawi says the process is ongoing, with monitoring and coordination with authorities.
Key items include the Tablet of Gilgamesh and a 4,500-year-old Ibex statue. The Iraqi embassy in Washington helped return the Ibex statue.

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Story summary

Iraq has recovered over 40,000 stolen artefacts since 2003, per the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities.
The recovery shows Iraq's commitment to protecting cultural heritage.
Spokesperson Ahmed Al-Alyawi says the process is ongoing, with monitoring and coordination with authorities.
Key items include the Tablet of Gilgamesh and a 4,500-year-old Ibex statue. The Iraqi embassy in Washington helped return the Ibex statue.