Bodies of missing Gulf tourists found

ANBAR, December 26 — The Security Media Cell announced on Tuesday the discovery of the bodies of the Kuwaiti and Saudi tourists in the Great Anbar Desert, confirming that the incident occurred due to the explosion of an explosive device belonging to the remnants of the war against ISIS.

A statement from the media cell, read:

In response to the loss of contact with Saudi citizen Anwar Al-Zafiri and Kuwaiti citizen Faisal Al-Mutairi, who entered Iraq for tourism on December 17, 2023, and November 20, 2023, respectively, direct orders from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces prompted intensified intelligence efforts and search operations in the vast desert stretching between the Salahuddin, Anbar, and Nineveh provinces.

Despite all efforts, the citizens’ bodies were discovered after their vehicle was hit by an explosion of an old explosive device from the remnants of ISIS, leading to its burning.

While expressing our condolences to the governments and people of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, we convey deep sorrow and sympathy to the families of the Gulf citizens. The Iraqi authorities will coordinate with the respective embassies to facilitate the transportation and delivery of the bodies to their families.

It is emphasized that adherence to entry permit regulations, whether for tourism or hunting purposes, is crucial. We reaffirm the necessity of complying with the Cabinet’s decision regarding entry permit coordination for Iraq and adhering to the standards for protecting and accompanying hunters. Additionally, adherence to the National Security Council’s decision and recommendations from the Ministry of Interior regarding entry permit conditions, hunting procedures, mobility protocols, and the protection of hunters is essential.