The Iraq Humanitarian Dialogue Foundation in London hosted a lecture on Tell Khaiber in December 2013. The HDF was set up in 2007 by Sayyid Hussein al-Sadr, and is dedicated to promoting understanding and reconciliation between Iraq’s many communities. Its headquarters at Salam House is a meeting place for the widest range of ideas and individuals interested in Iraq. This was the first public talk about the project, and as Iraq’s ancient heritage is something common to all Iraqis, this was really the ideal place to start. Jane Moon was introduced by well-known Iraqi artist Rashad Salim, of Tigris Expedition fame, and there was an excellent turnout.

It was both gratifying and appropriate that the audience was predominantly Iraqi. There were many insightful and challenging question and comments, and discussion continued until late around a welcome bowl of teshrib and other delicacies at a nearby Iraqi restaurant. It was agreed that one of us should return after the upcoming 2014 field season to give an update.

Our warmest thanks go to the Iraq Humanitarian Dialogue Foundation for hosting the event, and to Ahmed Dejaily for suggesting and arranging it.

The talk is available on YouTube