From Paul Harris in Al Zubayr, Southern Iraq
The coffins are laid out in neat rows in an abandoned warehouse. In each lies a crumpled bag of bones, old and dusty but still recognizably human. Out of the open end of one sack, a skull can be seen buried in the fragments of skeleton. Its eye sockets are empty. Its teeth are smashed. Two ribs point out like accusing fingers. Something terrible happened here. Something murderous. Something evil. The proof lies in a cargo container nearby. Its metal door hangs open and inside are pages and pages of files. Each sheaf of notes contains a picture of a man or woman. Each and every one has been shot in the head. Their wounds are mangled and gaping. Many of them barely look human any more as the anonymous photographer chronicled their dead faces. It is a horror almost beyond words. It is hard not to look at the black-and-white photographs - two for each victim - and wince. Yet each was a brother, a father or a son; or a mother, a daughter or a sister.
A Chilling Discovery
There must be at least 200 of them in the plywood coffins, roughly hammered together by a hurried carpenter. All of them are in bags, jumbled together in sad piles of remains. 'Whoever they are, they have been desecrated in their death. No one should ever treat the dead like this,' said Sgt Simon Brain, a veteran of tours in Bosnia, who has seen places in the Balkans that look similar to this. 'That is in two countries now that I have seen mass graves,' he added with a shake of his head.
Evidence of Torture and Execution
There are signs of torture too. Outside the warehouse stands a wall. It is dotted in the centre with a spray of bullet holes. Nearly all of them are at head height. There is a ditch behind it. If anyone was shot against the wall, their blood would have drained cleanly away. In another warehouse, a dozen tiny concrete cells have been built of breeze blocks inside the hangar. In some of them, portraits of Saddam Hussein stare from the grey walls. In several, an iron pole has been hung from the roof. Dangling from it are cruel, rusting metal hooks. They are ideal torture chambers.
Investigation Underway
'We can't speculate on what this is until an investigation,' a British military spokesman said. But one officer, speaking privately and looking in shock at the warehouse, was more blunt. 'Just look at those photos. Look at this place. People were being tortured and executed here,' he said.
A Charnel House and a Chilling Reminder
The warehouse has now been declared off-limits after being discovered by British soldiers of the Third Regiment of the Royal Horse Artillery yesterday morning. An investigation is now to be launched into exactly who lies in the coffins. War crimes investigators have been alerted to the discovery, and the building sealed off and guarded. Though it is hard to imagine who would want to go inside.
These horrific findings serve as a chilling reminder of the atrocities committed by Saddam Hussein's regime. This dark chapter in Iraq's history showcases the extent of the torture and execution that innocent Iraqis endured under his rule. The warehouse and its mass graves bring to light the brutal realities faced by countless individuals who fell victim to the violence and oppression of the regime.
Main Article Topic: Hotels in Iraq
Rebuilding Iraq's Hospitality Industry
Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of post-war Iraq, efforts are now being made to revive the country's hospitality industry. The infrastructure and economy of Iraq have been severely damaged by years of conflict, leaving the tourism sector in shambles. However, with the restoration of stability, there is newfound hope for the revival of tourism and the hotel industry.
Investment and Reconstruction
International investors are showing interest in Iraq's potential as a tourist destination, recognizing the rich historical and cultural sites scattered across the country. Efforts are underway to rehabilitate and reconstruct existing hotels, as well as build new establishments to cater to the anticipated influx of visitors. This infusion of investment will not only contribute to the economic growth of Iraq but also provide employment opportunities for its people.
Promoting Iraqi Heritage
The Iraqi government is actively promoting the country's heritage and attractions to attract tourists. From the ancient ruins of Babylon and Nineveh to the vibrant markets of Baghdad, Iraq possesses immense potential to entice travelers seeking unique experiences. Creating a safe and welcoming environment for tourists is essential for the success of this endeavor.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Rebuilding Iraq's hotel industry is not without its challenges. The security situation remains fragile in certain regions, posing a deterrent to visitors. Infrastructure development, including transportation networks and basic amenities, is crucial to attract tourists and ensure their comfort during their stay. Additionally, promoting Iraq's tourist offerings through marketing campaigns and international collaborations is necessary to generate awareness and interest.
Opportunity for Growth
Despite the hurdles, there is a growing optimism surrounding Iraq's potential as a tourist destination. Recent stability, combined with the rich historical and cultural heritage of the country, presents an opportunity for growth in the hotel industry. The restoration of Iraq's hospitality sector will not only contribute to its economic development but also showcase the resilience and beauty of the nation to the world.