Photo : AFP
NEW DELHI: During ongoing restoration efforts at Mosul's historic Al-Nuri mosque, a UNESCO team made a startling discovery of five bombs planted by Islamic State (IS) jihadists years ago. The revelation, disclosed late Friday by a United Nations agency representative, highlighted the presence of "large-scale explosive devices" concealed within the southern wall of the mosque's prayer hall.
The Al-Nuri mosque, renowned for its leaning minaret Al-Hadba, dating back to the 12th century, suffered significant damage during the battle to liberate Mosul from IS control. Iraqi forces have accused IS of strategically placing and subsequently detonating explosives at the site during their occupation. Since 2017, UNESCO has led initiatives to restore the mosque and other culturally significant sites in Mosul, which endured extensive destruction.
UNESCO reported swift action by Iraqi armed forces to secure the area upon discovery. While one bomb has been safely removed, four others, each weighing 1.5 kilograms (3.3 pounds), remain interconnected and are slated for safe disposal in the coming days.
Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel
“These explosive devices were concealed within a specially reconstructed wall, which explains why they evaded detection during the initial site clearing by Iraqi forces in 2020,” stated the agency, as quoted by AFP. General Tahseen al-Khafaji, spokesperson for Iraq's Joint Operations Command, confirmed the find, noting that provincial demining experts have sought assistance from Baghdad's Defence Ministry due to the bombs' intricate setup. Consequently, all construction activities at the mosque have been halted pending the safe defusing of the remaining devices.
The Al-Nuri mosque holds historical significance as the site where Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, then-leader of IS, declared the establishment of the group's "caliphate" in July 2014. IS once controlled vast territories across Iraq and Syria, enforcing a brutal regime until their expulsion by Iraqi forces with support from a US-led coalition in 2017.
Named after Nureddine al-Zinki, the 12th-century Syrian unifier who commissioned its construction in 1172, the Al-Nuri mosque has undergone multiple renovations. Though much of the original structure was lost, the minaret was salvaged and rebuilt using 45,000 original bricks salvaged from the rubble.
Funded primarily by the United Arab Emirates, the current restoration project aims for completion by December 2024. UNESCO emphasized that the successful conclusion of the project would signify the removal of "the shadow of IS occupation" from this revered landmark.
This recent discovery follows a similar surprise earlier in January 2022 when teams unearthed an underground prayer chamber from the mosque's original 12th-century foundation, adding further layers to its storied history.
#trending #latest #Mosul #AlNuriMosque #UNESCO #Iraq #IS #CulturalHeritage #Restoration #HistoricSites #MiddleEast #HeritageProtection #breakingnews #worldnews #headlines #topstories #globalUpdate #dxbnewsnetwork #dxbnews #dxbdnn #dxbnewsnetworkdnn #bestnewschanneldubai #bestnewschannelUAE #bestnewschannelabudhabi #bestnewschannelajman #bestnewschannelofdubai #popularnewschanneldubai
Discover effective ways to express your emotions better. Learn simple techniques for communicating feelings clearly and building stronger connections with other...Read More.
Discover the truth about applying hair oil and dandruff. Learn if hair oil causes dandruff, how to choose the right oil, and tips to prevent dandruff effectivel...Read More.
Tragic Incident: Family of Seven Swept Away in Swollen Waterfall Near Mumbai
Two returned safely; rescuers found three bodies. Search resumes at daybreak.
Virat Kohli Video Calls Anushka Sharma & Kids After T20 World Cup Win: A Look at Their On-Field PDA Moments
Virat Kohli celebrates India's T20 World Cup win with emotional video call to wife Anushka Sharma, h
India vs South Africa: Relive India's 2024 T20 World Cup Title Win in Images
India broke an 11-year drought by defeating South Africa in a thrilling final, remaining unbeaten in
Delhi Airport Disputes 'Waterfall' Video at T1 as Old, Woman Provides Evidence
Delhi Airport dismisses T-1 waterfall video as old; activist provides evidence proving recent occurr
Hina Khan Reveals Stage 3 Breast Cancer Diagnosis Shock
TV actress Hina Khan, aged 36, shared on Instagram that she has been diagnosed with stage 3 breast c
How to Tell Others How You Feel Clearly and Honestly
Discover effective ways to express your emotions better. Learn simple techniques for communicating feelings clearly and building stronger connections with other
Does Hair Oil Make Dandruff Worse?
Discover the truth about applying hair oil and dandruff. Learn if hair oil causes dandruff, how to choose the right oil, and tips to prevent dandruff effectivel
Signs of Stress: What Athletes Should Watch For
Learn to recognize signs of stress and anxiety in sports with simple explanations. Discover how athletes cope with game-day nerves and understand the emotional
Revamp Your Wardrobe with Fun and Affordable DIY Fashion Projects
Transform your look with DIY fashion projects! Upcycle old clothes, save money, and promote sustainability. Fun and creative ideas for everyone.
Nature's Art: Serengeti to Machu Picchu Sunrise Views
Explore the world's most stunning sunrise views from Serengeti's wildlife haven to Machu Picchu's ancient wonders. Witness breathtaking landscapes and cultural
Explore Dubai's Famous Landmarks and Culture: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Explore our comprehensive Dubai itinerary guide for 2024! Discover iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, cultural delights, shopping extravagan
Rolls-Royce Ghost Breaks Down in Delhi Flood, Internet Buzzed Over 'The' Rescue
The viral video depicts a black Rolls-Royce stranded on a flooded road in Delhi.
Dubai Real Estate Market Set for Growth Amid Increased Local Investment
Dubai’s real estate market has undergone three growth cycles, but it has also faced two boom-and-bust cycles.
Ananya Pandey Masters Gen Z Style with Bold Black Bralette and Mini Slit Skirt Statement
Ananya Pandey rocks Gen Z style in a black bralette and slit skirt, flaunting her trendsetting fashion sense.
Discover the Top Destinations for 2024: Expert Travel Tips and Guides for Your Journey
Explore top destinations for 2024 with our comprehensive travel tips and guides. Discover New Zealand's natural beauty, Japan's cultural marvels, Italy's rich h
Biden's Family Encourages Him to Persist in White House Race Despite Challenges
Joe Biden's family urges him to stay in the race despite criticism after debate with Donald Trump.
Arab League Reverses Hezbollah Terrorist Designation Decision
Amid concerns over potential spillover from the Israel-Hamas conflict into Lebanon, the Arab League has decided to revoke Hezbollah's terrorist designation.
Sharjah Ruler Establishes Sharjah Communication Technologies Free Zone
Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, has decreed the establishment of the Sharjah Communication Technologies Free Zone.
Mass Prison Break 19 Escapees from Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, 1 Fatality Reported
Nineteen inmates, including six on death row, escaped from Rawalkot prison in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Directors Benoit Jacquot, Jacques Doillon Held Over Sexual Abuse Claims
Actress and director Judith Godrèche, 52, has accused filmmakers Benoit Jacquot and Jacques Doillon of rape and sexual assault during her minor years.
Find Great Flight Deals: Book Your Tickets Online Today
Discover the best air ticket deals and discounts when you book cheap flights online. Save time and money with easy booking options and exclusive offers on fligh
Tragic Loss: 24-Year-Old Indian-Origin Woman Dies Mid-Air on Qantas Flight Melbourne to New Delhi
The incident occurred on June 20 as 24-year-old Manpreet Kaur boarded the plane in Melbourne, prepared for her flight to Delhi.
Abu Dhabi Agriculture Authority Earns World Summit on Information Society Award
Abu Dhabi's ADAFSA wins the WSIS Award, recognizing its digital innovation and contribution to information society development.
India Wins T20 World Cup 2024: Historic Cricket Victory
DescrIndia's historic victory in the T20 World Cup 2024 crowns a thrilling cricket season. Led by Virat Kohli, Team India's stellar performance captivates fans
France's National Rally Leads First-Round Legislative Elections
French President Emmanuel Macron, who unexpectedly called for these elections just three weeks ago, urged voters to unite against the rise of the far right.
3001E, 30 Floor, Aspin Commercial Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
+971 56 450 3476
info@dxbnewsnetwork.com
© DNN. All Rights Reserved.
