Iraq Reopens Historic Mosul Al-Nuri Mosque Eight Years After ISIS Destruction

Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani officially reopened the historic al-Nuri Grand Mosque and its iconic leaning minaret in Mosul, eight years after they were destroyed by Islamic State militants in 2017. The mosque, which had stood for about 850 years and was the site where IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared the self-proclaimed caliphate in 2014, was rebuilt through a major international effort led by UNESCO with significant funding from the United Arab Emirates and the European Union. The reconstruction, completed using traditional techniques and salvaged materials, symbolizes the resilience and heroism of the Iraqi people in defending and rebuilding their heritage. The reopening is seen as a declaration of hope and the triumph of life over the destruction wrought by terrorism. The project also included rebuilding war-damaged churches and involved local community input to preserve essential features of the mosque while allowing for improvements. Iraqi officials emphasized the cultural and developmental importance of preserving Iraqi antiquities as a gateway to the world and a space for youth innovation.