In season two of Confused Iraqi, Noor Mousa and Alannah Travers interview individuals who have themselves grappled with the layers of confusion that Iraq's rich history and current reality present. From artists to activists, they uncover the stories of those who have experienced the range of feelings that come with being connected to Iraq, and dive deep into the stories and experiences of Iraqis who have been touched by the complexities of their home. 

Throughout this season, we hope to shed light on Iraq's recent history and its impact on the lives of its people. By exploring personal narratives and significant events, we want to create a space for reflection, understanding, and empathy. Join us as we untangle the threads of confusion, and discover the resilience of the Iraqi spirit.

In this first episode, our conversation is with the Iraqi journalist and filmmaker, Meethak Al-Khatib. Meethak was born in Ramadi, Anbar, later moving on his own to Erbil in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq in 2014 to avoid escalating conflict in his hometown. This led to his career as a fixer, translator and producer for international media covering the Battle of Mosul against ISIS. Meethak soon published his first independent video report from the frontlines, and has never looked back.

As foreign reporters left the region, his commitment to telling the stories of those most affected by the battle and its after-effects has flourished, and he reports on young Iraqis, the country’s politics, its economy, and freedom of speech. Meethak has pursued a range of independent projects such as documentaries and photo books, and features in a forthcoming French cartoon book on the Mosul war and key journalists behind its coverage.

Check out Meethak's work and connect with him here: https://www.meethak-alkhatib.com

We found this conversation moving and thought-provoking, and came away with a deeper understanding of what it means to be a Confused Iraqi.

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