Mosul, Iraq – In a shocking revelation, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has uncovered five large bombs hidden within the walls of the historic al-Nouri Mosque in Mosul, a grim reminder of the Islamic State’s destructive legacy.
The al-Nouri Mosque, famed for its 12th-century leaning minaret, was a beacon of resilience during the battle against ISIS, which destroyed it in 2017 in a bid to erase cultural landmarks. Since 2020, UNESCO has led restoration efforts to resurrect this symbol of Mosul’s rich history.
UNESCO’s statement on Saturday revealed the bombs were found embedded in the mosque’s southern Prayer Hall wall. “One bomb has been safely defused, but the remaining four, interconnected and designed for massive destruction, pose a significant challenge,” the statement said. Iraqi authorities have since halted reconstruction and evacuated the complex for safety.
The mosque’s history is deeply intertwined with Mosul’s struggle. In 2014, ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared an Islamic caliphate from this very site, marking a dark chapter for the city. The mosque’s destruction three years later was a symbolic act of defiance against the city’s heritage.
Clearing Mosul of explosives has been a painstaking process. International efforts led by the United Nations focus on mine clearance and infrastructure restoration, yet many parts of Mosul remain perilous. The presence of these bombs highlights the ongoing threat and complexity of Mosul’s recovery.
“Each bomb discovery underscores the challenges we face in rebuilding Mosul,” said Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO’s Director-General. “Yet, it strengthens our resolve to restore this symbol of peace and heritage.”
UNESCO’s “Revive the Spirit of Mosul” initiative aims to restore not just physical structures but the cultural and social fabric of the city. Despite the setback, the goal remains to complete al-Nouri Mosque’s restoration by December 2024.
Residents expressed mixed emotions. “It’s heartbreaking to see the mosque still threatened,” said Ahmed Khalil, a local. “But we’re grateful for the efforts to clear these dangers and hope the mosque will soon be a place of worship and community again.”
The international community’s commitment to Mosul’s recovery remains steadfast. The al-Nouri Mosque stands as a symbol of resilience, ready to rise again from the ashes of conflict, reinforcing the global commitment to preserving Mosul’s heritage and ensuring a safe future for its residents.
The discovery of these hidden bombs within such a significant cultural site underscores the ongoing challenges but also highlights the unwavering determination to restore and protect Mosul’s historical identity.
