Tel Keppe, also known as Tel Kaif, is a district situated in the Nineveh Governorate of Northern Iraq, located near the Tigris River and to the north-east of Mosul, which is the provincial capital.

Geography: The geography of the district includes plains and low-lying areas, with the terrain generally being flat. The district has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters.

Population: Tel Keppe has traditionally been home to a predominantly Assyrian Christian population. However, the demographic composition has changed over the years, with the influx of other ethnic and religious groups, particularly Arabs and Kurds.

Cultural and Economic Significance: Tel Keppe holds significant cultural importance for the Assyrian Christian community, housing various historical churches and sites of religious importance. The district’s economy primarily relies on agriculture, trade, and small-scale industries.

Recent Military Conflicts: Tel Keppe has experienced considerable turmoil and conflict, especially during the Iraq War and the subsequent rise of ISIS. In 2014, ISIS captured the district, leading to mass displacement of the local population, particularly the Assyrian Christians. Historical and religious sites suffered damage, and the local community faced persecution.

Iraqi forces, with support from an international coalition, recaptured Tel Keppe in 2017, enabling the return of some displaced residents. However, the extensive destruction has posed challenges for reconstruction and rehabilitation.

Conclusion: Tel Keppe District represents a microcosm of Iraq’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, having been a focal point for the Assyrian Christian community. Recent military conflicts, particularly the ISIS occupation, have severely impacted the district, causing displacement and damage to cultural heritage. The liberation and ongoing reconstruction efforts are vital for the return and recovery of the local communities and the preservation of the cultural and historical significance of Tel Keppe.