Contemptibly demolished Mosul mosque has been revived

The Great Mosque of Mosul, also known as the Al-Nuri Mosque, has been reopened after eight long years of destruction at the hands of the Islamic State (IS). This historic mosque, dating back to the 12th century, holds immense symbolic significance and was a key site for ISIS-caliphate declarations.

In July 2014, ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi first appeared in public at the Al-Nuri Mosque. Fast forward to the summer of 2017, the mosque was blown up by IS during the battle for the former jihadist stronghold. However, the resilience of the Iraqi people shone through, and the rebuilding process began.

The reopening ceremony was attended by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani, who spoke at the event. The iconic Hadba Minaret, a distinctive feature of the mosque, was also reopened. The rebuilding of the Al-Nuri Mosque was completed after Iraq declared victory over IS in December 2017.

The reopening of the Al-Nuri Mosque and two churches is a testament to Iraq's rebuilding efforts and a significant step in the country's recovery from the IS conflict. It stands for peaceful coexistence and social unity in Iraq. The reopening signifies resistance against terrorism and a symbol of hope for a peaceful future.

The reconstruction of the Al-Nuri Mosque was supported by the UN cultural organization UNESCO and the United Arab Emirates. Reports suggest that China and Russia also played a role in the mosque's reopening after years of rebuilding.

The reopening of the Al-Nuri Mosque and the churches marks a milestone in Iraq's journey towards recovery and peace. It is a beacon of hope, symbolising the resilience and determination of the Iraqi people in the face of adversity. The reopening is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a path to recovery and a brighter future.