Iraqi archaeologist says US examining Sumerian 'Amargi' debt-relief model

BAGHDAD, Iraq — An Iraqi archaeologist says the U.S. administration is examining the ancient Sumerian "Amargi" system as it searches for solutions to its public debt crisis, which has surpassed $40 trillion. Archaeologist Amir Abdurrezzak said The New York Times reported that Washington is evaluating the Sumerian model as a potential approach to addressing the country's mounting debt burden. Abdurrezzak described Amargi as the first written economic and social reform system in history, introduced by Sumerian King Urukagina of Lagash around 2400 BC. He said the term means "a return to the mother's womb" and symbolizes the complete cancellation of debts. According to Abdurrezzak, Urukagina wiped out the debts of farmers and ordinary citizens, easing the heavy taxes and obligations imposed by temples and authorities at the time and triggering economic recovery. U.S. Treasury data showed the federal debt stock crossed the $40.05 trillion mark on August 18, a historic threshold. During President Donald Trump's second term, the debt has risen by roughly $3.8 trillion from the $36.2 trillion level recorded in January 2025. No further details on the U.S. review were immediately available.