Switzerland returned three ancient Mesopotamian artifacts to Iraq, the most significant restitution since 2005.

Switzerland returned three ancient Mesopotamian artifacts (1,700-2,800 years old) to Iraq, marking the most significant restitution since 2005. The items, including a partial statue and two reliefs, were seized during a criminal procedure in Geneva and their accused owner was convicted for document forgery and violating the Cultural Property Transfer Act. Switzerland and Iraq are parties to a UNESCO convention to protect cultural heritage by banning and preventing the illegal trade of cultural property.