The official spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, Colonel Mohammed Ali Al-Hassoun, announced Tuesday that the Directorate of Antiquities and Heritage Protection has recovered 2,550 artifacts and removed 36 encroachments on archaeological and heritage sites since the beginning of 2026.

During the same period, the Directorate provided security support for 58 local and international archaeological excavation missions and conducted field patrols to monitor and protect archaeological sites.

Al-Hassoun emphasized that safeguarding Iraq’s cultural and historical heritage is a major national responsibility, given the country’s rich civilizational legacy spanning thousands of years. He noted that Iraq, the cradle of ancient civilizations, has made significant contributions to human history.

He added that the Ministry of Interior remains committed to protecting the country’s invaluable cultural heritage and ensuring a secure environment for archaeological excavation missions, helping preserve Iraq’s historic legacy and cultural treasures for future generations.