HOPES FROM THE TREE

In the aftermath of the Iran-Iraq War, in which millions of mines were laid on the Iranian border, two extraordinary men find purpose in the devastation. Born in the Kurdish city of Halabja, Hosyar Ali Hasan lost both legs while clearing landmines left behind from the brutal Iran-Iraq War. Yet, he never stopped. Over 28 years, he defied the odds and removed over 2.6 million mines, risking his life every day to protect others from the silent killers buried in the earth.Across the border in Merivan, East Kurdistan (Iran), Uncle Hussein once smuggled goods to support his family. But after a life-changing incident, he gave up that path and began handcrafting wooden prosthetic feet for mine victims—simple yet powerful creations made with love and skill. Despite modern alternatives, people from across Iraq and Iran still journey to him, drawn by his compassion and craftsmanship.