Iraqi officials have begun excavating a potential mass grave in al-Khafsa, south of Mosul, believed to contain thousands of victims of the Islamic State group. The excavation, involving multiple agencies and international support, began August 9th. Initial efforts focus on surface remains and evidence before a full exhumation, including DNA analysis, can proceed. Authorities estimate thousands of bodies, possibly including Iraqi military personnel and Yazidis, might be found, potentially making it the largest mass grave in modern Iraqi history.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.