ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the state practice related to the return of cultural heritage looted during armed conflicts. The first part explores the early precedents and post-war settlements following the First World War (WWI) and the Second World War (WWII), which include the repatriation of cultural objects that were taken illegally during conflicts. The second part examines both international and national laws that contain clear legal obligations on wartime restitution. The chapter analyses the international reactions to the recent regional conflicts in the Middle East. The international recognition and commitment to protecting cultural heritage looted from conflict zones can be concluded by the words of the United Kingdom (UK) Minister for the Middle East and North Africa Tobias Ellwood. The humanitarian crisis in the Middle East takes priority and the UK is at the forefront of the international effort to support those affected by the conflicts in Syria and Iraq.
