NPR

Iraq Reclaims Historic Mosul Mosque, Saying ISIS 'Caliphate' Has Fallen

Though the mosque now lies in ruins, the moment marks a symbolic victory for Iraqis, who watched three years ago as ISIS declared a "caliphate" from its pulpit. But the fight is by no means over.
The ravaged Great Mosque of al-Nuri, as seen through rubble in the Old City of Mosul on Thursday. Iraqi forces say they've recaptured the landmark, where ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared the group's "caliphate" in 2014. / AHMAD AL-RUBAYE / Getty Images

Nearly three years to the day after the leader of ISIS declared the "caliphate" of Iraq and Syria from the pulpit of Mosul's Great Mosque of al-Nuri, the historic structure is back in Iraqi hands.

A military spokesman announced Thursday that Iraqi troops successfully stormed the centuries-old religious landmark, reclaiming the ruins of a building destroyed by last week.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR4 min read
From Pandemic To Protests, The Class Of 2024 Has Been Through A Lot
Pomp and circumstance again fall victim to circumstance for some students in the graduating class of 2024, as protests over the war in Gaza threaten to disrupt commencement ceremonies.
NPR3 min read
What's Making Us Happy: A Guide To Your Weekend Viewing And Reading
Each week, Pop Culture Happy Hour guests and hosts share what's bringing them joy. This week: Vanderpump Rules recaps, the book The Worst Ronin, and a duet by Pavarotti and Celine Dion.
NPR2 min read
Brian Wilson Of The Beach Boys Is Being Placed Under A Legal Conservatorship
A Los Angeles Superior Court judge approved the conservatorship Thursday, noting that Brian Wilson suffers from "a major cognitive disorder." Wilson has agreed to the conservatorship.

Related Books & Audiobooks