Iraq’s Nineveh province has begun excavating the Al-Khasfa Pit, the largest mass grave believed to contain thousands of ISIS victims. Governor Abdul Qadir Al-Dakhil emphasized the need for urgency in the exhumation and identification process, while assuring that local authorities would fund the initiative despite financial limitations. The excavation is projected to take about a year, with oversight from the Nineveh Court of Appeal.
Authorities in Iraq’s Nineveh province have commenced excavation efforts at the Al-Khasfa Pit, recognized as Iraq’s largest mass grave containing thousands of victims of ISIS. Governor Abdul Qadir Al-Dakhil announced this significant endeavor on Wednesday, noting the urgency to exhume the remains and identify the deceased individuals. He characterized the grave as possibly the largest in the world, highlighting the humanitarian responsibility involved.
The excavation will be conducted in collaboration with the Nineveh Court of Appeal to ensure adherence to legal standards. Although the Iraq Martyrs’ Foundation faces financial constraints, Governor Al-Dakhil assured that the province will fully fund the project. He estimated that the excavation might require up to one year but emphasized the necessity for immediate action to provide closure to families.
Governor Al-Dakhil shared, “We have a clear roadmap, and local and international bodies will closely monitor this project… We cannot allow families to wait any longer for answers,” adding that efforts will also extend to the excavation of other mass graves located in Tal Afar and Sinjar. Initial reports indicate that ISIS was responsible for mass executions at the site, with estimates suggesting up to 2,000 victims per day during their control from 2014 to 2017.
The excavation of the Al-Khasfa Pit marks a crucial step in addressing the legacies of violence inflicted by ISIS in Iraq. With dedicated funding and legal oversight, local authorities aim to provide families with the closure they seek regarding their lost loved ones. This operation, while monumental in scope, also reinforces the commitment to address the tragedies experienced in other affected areas, underscoring a broader effort to recover and honor the victims.
Original Source: shafaq.com
