Iraqi MP calls on Washington, London to return stolen artifacts

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Member of the Iraqi Parliament, Shaalan Abdul Karim, called on the United States of America and Britain to return the Iraqi artifacts that were stolen following the U.S. invasion of Iraq.

“Everyone knows that the artifacts of Iraq were stolen during the American invasion of the country in 2003,” Abdul Karim said.

“Iraq’s heritage was looted by countries participated in the invasion led by the United States of America and Britain,” Abdul Karim explained.

Abdul Karim indicated that the United States and Britain acquired the largest part of the stolen items, which represent an important civilization and a human heritage that cannot be ignored.

The Iraqi Member of Parliament stressed that the recovery of the stolen artifacts is a very important matter for the Iraqi government and other concerned organizations.

Abdul Karim clarified that lawsuits were filed against those involved in this matter, as the stolen items began to appear in international auctions.

“The United States, Britain, and the countries participated in the theft of Iraqi artifacts must respect our history and civilization and return those artifacts to their original place, which is Iraq,” Abdul Karim stated.

“The Ancient Civilizations Forum held in Baghdad in the past two days under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, called on ministers of foreign affairs, culture, tourism and antiquities to return those Iraqi artifacts. The American side has to take the necessary steps to return the stolen pieces, which belong to an important era in the Iraqi history,” Abdul Karim said.

The Iraqi parliamentarian pointed out that appropriate steps will be taken with the beginning of the new legislative term after January 9, indicating that an appropriate decision will be made to take the necessary action against those who trade in stolen artifacts to preserve the history of Iraq.