BAGHDAD — Although more than 10 years have passed since the transformative events of 2003 in Iraq, the fate of the Iraq Museum remains a mystery. News of it has all but disappeared. It is known to open its doors to diplomatic missions, but most Iraqis have never been inside the museum, which has been undergoing construction work, which has itself raised questions. Although there are workers in the museum, and although it was officially reopened in 2009, the museum remains closed to the public. With its director, Amira Edan, sometimes outright refusing to speak to the press, the museum is shrouded in mystery and secrecy. This is where my story of the museum began and enigmatically ended.

Every time I pass by the museum, I feel the urge to go inside and see the antiquities, artwork and other items displayed there. I am overwhelmed by a burning desire to see the museum’s doors opened wide to visitors. It has been 10 years since the museum was vandalized following the US-led invasion. When I look at the museum's facade, I stare at it with the eyes of a citizen who has a bond thousands of years old with the museum.

While standing in front of the new building one day, I suddenly remembered that I am a journalist. My job necessitates that I search for answers to questions that often perplex me. I immediately decided to go to the museum and ask the questions I had on my mind. I was certain I would be warmly received, but I stood waiting at the door of the director for far too long. I had notified her secretary of my business there and the importance of getting an interview with Edan. It turns out that waiting is part of every job at this museum, and visiting journalists are treated like any other employee. While I waited, various employees entered and left her office, one after the other. Then came my turn.

The secretary entered the director's office to tell her that I was waiting to talk with her. A few minutes later, the secretary returned with disappointing news that decimated my optimism: “You must get an official letter from the journalistic institution you work for as well as a statement from the Ministry of Tourism allowing you to interview the director.” Having neither document, I expressed my surprise and objection, especially since I had wasted time waiting.