UNESCO Uncovers ISIL Bombs at Mosul Mosque

UNESCO has uncovered five large bombs embedded in the walls of the historic al-Nuri Mosque in Mosul, Iraq, remnants of ISIL's occupation. These explosive devices, designed for significant destruction, were found during restoration efforts and have prompted Iraqi authorities to halt all reconstruction and evacuate the site until the bombs are safely disarmed. The mosque, famous for its 12th-century leaning minaret, was destroyed by ISIL in 2017, and the discovery of the bombs underscores the ongoing challenges of clearing Mosul of explosives. One bomb has been defused, while the remaining four, interconnected, are slated for safe disposal. UNESCO aims to complete the mosque's reconstruction by December, marking a significant step in Mosul's recovery from ISIL's devastation.