Iraqi Authorities Uncover Mass Grave of 139 Likely IS Victims

Iraqi authorities have uncovered the remains of 139 people in a mass grave located in northern Iraq, near the former Islamic State stronghold of Mosul, Middle East Eye reported yesterday.

The bodies, which include both women and men, were found in the Alo Antar sinkhole, a natural desert feature used by IS as a mass grave during their rule from 2014-2017.

According to officials, the victims were likely Yazidis, Shiite Turkmen, and security forces personnel from Mosul. Some had been shot, while others had their throats cut. The UN estimates there could be as many as 200 mass graves in the region containing up to 12,000 bodies.

The discovery provides some closure for families who lost loved ones to the brutality of IS.