Tadrian Abdullah, a worker for Iraq’s Kurdistan Regional Government’s Ministry of Martyrs and Anfal Affairs, recounts his harrowing experiences of exhuming bodies from mass graves left by ISIS in Khanaqin and Diyala province. Initially a desk worker, Abdullah's role shifted dramatically with the advance of ISIS, leading him to recover and identify the bodies of executed victims. The article highlights the psychological and physical toll on Abdullah and his colleagues, the challenges of identifying remains, and the ongoing threat of ISIS. Despite the trauma, Abdullah finds purpose in bringing closure to the families of the deceased.

Hoshyar Ali, a double amputee, is on a mission to de-mine northern Iraq, working independently and without charge. Despite losing both legs to land mines and facing opposition from the Kurdistan Regional Government and NGOs, Ali continues his efforts, driven by personal tragedy and a commitment to his community. He has cleared thousands of fields and dismantled hundreds of thousands of land mines, becoming a local hero. Ali's work includes creating a land mine museum to educate locals, although his methods and independence have sparked controversy.

The article discusses the emerging market of flying cars, highlighting various companies and their projects, including Ehang, Lilium, Kitty Hawk, Airbus, Boeing, and Uber. Ehang plans to launch the first autonomous air taxi service soon, while Lilium aims for commercial services by 2025. Uber is developing an air taxi service with plans to launch in Los Angeles, Dallas, and Melbourne within three years. The article also touches on the potential benefits of flying cars, such as reducing traffic and environmental impact, and the challenges, including production costs, regulation, and safety. Optimism remains high among developers for increased air mobility to address infrastructure pressures.

Ibrahim Abdullahi recounts his harrowing experience during the 1988 conflict in Hargeisa, Somaliland, where he was forced by government soldiers to bury hundreds of bodies to cover up war crimes. His story, confirmed by the War Crimes Commissioner, underscores the brutalities committed by Somalia’s national army and the resilience of those who survived. Abdullahi's efforts have been crucial in reuniting families with the remains of their loved ones, and he continues to work towards ensuring that the atrocities are not forgotten.

The Kurdish independence referendum in Iraq's semi-autonomous region has sparked significant debate among Kurds, with strong support in Erbil and opposition in Sulaymaniyah. The referendum, led by the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and opposed by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and other political factions, highlights deep political and economic divisions. The inclusion of disputed territories like Kirkuk has further complicated the situation, drawing criticism from the Iraqi government and international actors. Despite the expected majority support for independence, internal disputes and potential instability remain major concerns.

The Samaritans, a small ethno-religious community in the occupied West Bank and Israel, are striving to preserve their culture and heritage amidst dwindling numbers and historical conflicts. Despite efforts to remain politically neutral and bridge gaps between Israelis and Palestinians, the community faces challenges such as demographic decline and cultural erosion. Initiatives like compulsory education in Samaritan history and language aim to sustain their identity, but concerns about the future persist.

Sounds of Palestine, a local organization in Aida refugee camp, West Bank, offers music therapy to children aged five to nine, teaching them instruments like the clarinet, cello, and violin. The program, started in 2012, aims to create a peaceful environment amidst the violence and trauma experienced by the children due to Israeli military actions. The organization has social workers to counsel the students and has seen success, with two students winning a strings competition. Despite funding challenges, Sounds of Palestine aspires to expand and provide free music lessons and therapy to more children.

Islamic State militants have increased chemical weapon attacks on Kurdish forces in Iraq, using mustard gas and chlorine. These attacks have caused injuries and panic among soldiers and civilians. The U.S. military has destroyed an ISIL chemical weapons facility, and international organizations are investigating the use of these banned weapons. Kurdish commanders believe the weapons are manufactured in Mosul and fear more lethal attacks as ISIL becomes more desperate.

Joseph, a former member of the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) Jewish community in Israel, shares his journey of leaving the religious life to embrace secular society, driven by his realization of being gay. The article highlights the increasing trend of Haredi youth leaving their communities due to growing extremism and the influence of the internet. Organizations like Hillel provide crucial support for these individuals, who often face significant challenges, including financial instability and family estrangement. Tsila Bilou, another ex-Haredi, discusses the difficulties of adjusting to secular life and the lack of basic education and job opportunities for those who leave. Despite the hardships, both Joseph and Bilou express no regrets about their decisions.