Saladin official denies excavation at archaeological site near Tikrit

SALADIN, Iraq — Muhannad Mahcub Türeci, the official in charge of archaeology and cultural heritage in Saladin, denied reports on Saturday that excavation work was taking place at an archaeological site along the route of the Buaacil Cordon project east of Tikrit. Türeci said the project area is about 5 kilometers from the archaeological hill known as Tel Hatra and that there has been no excavation or violation of the historic site. He said the relevant departments routinely monitor projects being carried out in the city and that the cordon project is proceeding in line with current rules and instructions. Türeci also said social media posts were intended to mislead the public and urged people to verify information through official channels.