Egypt recovers seven antiquities from United States in latest repatriation effort
CAIRO — Egypt has recovered seven illegally smuggled antiquities from the United States, strengthening its sustained efforts to reclaim looted cultural heritage scattered across the globe.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the artifacts were recently returned following coordinated action involving Egyptian and U.S. authorities under existing cultural protection agreements.
The recovered items include an Ushabti statue, an amulet depicting the god Set, a stone scarab, two carved stone human heads, a mummified falcon head, and a mummified fish, all believed to have been removed from Egypt unlawfully.
According to officials, the artifacts represent a cross-section of Egypt’s ancient religious and funerary traditions, underscoring the historical value of the latest repatriation.
![A selection of recovered antiquities including statues, amulets, and mummified remains. [This is a representation image]](http://ourdailynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot_497.png)
Bilateral cooperation secures return
The ministry said the recovery was achieved through close cooperation between the Egyptian Embassy in Washington, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
The operation was conducted within the framework of a 2021 Memorandum of Understanding between Egypt and the United States aimed at preventing the illicit trade and export of cultural property.
Officials noted that the agreement has become a critical tool in identifying, seizing, and returning artifacts that surface in foreign collections and markets.
Egypt intensifies global recovery drive
With the return of the seven artifacts, Egypt adds to a growing list of successful recoveries achieved in recent years as part of a broader international campaign to reclaim stolen antiquities.
Authorities said tens of thousands of smuggled artifacts have been brought back to Egypt from multiple countries through diplomatic channels, legal action, and international cooperation.
The government has reiterated its commitment to protecting national heritage, emphasizing that repatriation efforts will continue as long as Egyptian antiquities remain unlawfully held abroad. [Xinhua]
