A computer scientist at a British university has begun analyzing a gruesome photograph of a corpse in hopes of solving the enigma of Musa al-Sadr, a prominent Shia cleric who mysteriously disappeared in Libya back in 1978. The photograph, taken by a journalist at a secret mortuary in Tripoli, could provide crucial evidence regarding Sadr's fate.
Since his disappearance, Sadr has become a legendary figure among his followers, inspiring theories ranging from assassination to continued imprisonment in Libya. His revered status parallels that of well-known historical figures, such as US President John F. Kennedy, and is tied closely to the political landscape of the Middle East.
The investigation gained momentum after Kassem Hamadé, the journalist who discovered the body during the 2011 Libyan uprising, noted its resemblance to Sadr. This prompted a new study using advanced deep fake recognition technology to identify the deceased. Researchers in Bradford have reported a likelihood score suggesting the body may indeed belong to Sadr.
Musa al-Sadr was last seen in 1978 after a meeting scheduled with Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. If confirmed, the identity of the corpse would not only close a significant chapter in Middle Eastern history, but also revive controversies surrounding Sadr’s ideological influence at a pivotal moment in an era marked by political turmoil and sectarian strife.
The findings of this investigation come with inherent risks, as the sensitivities surrounding the cleric's legacy and Libyan politics create complex challenges. Nevertheless, this renewed effort highlights the enduring impact of Sadr's disappearance on contemporary political discourse, especially within Lebanon's Shia communities, who honor him each year on the anniversary of his vanishing.
