The meat industry, particularly the red meat sector, is a rapidly evolving global industry facing significant risks, including antibiotic accumulation. This study focused on antibiotic residues in sheep meat in Mosul, Iraq, motivated by the lack of updated local data and the need to develop risk mitigation strategies. Over the study period from September 2023 to June 2024, 17% of 200 tested samples contained antibiotic residues. This percentage is alarming due to its implications for human health, including the potential development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and hypersensitivity reactions. The findings were consistent with similar studies in the region, such as those in Erbil, where a 13% accumulation rate was reported. The seasonal variation in antibiotic residue prevalence was noted, with higher rates in summer. Comparatively, studies from Ethiopia, Lebanon, and Sudan reported higher contamination rates, attributed to improper pre-slaughter practices and excessive antibiotic use. The results from Mosul were also consistent with findings from Egypt, where a significant percentage of meat samples were contaminated with antibiotics.The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the need for measures to combat antimicrobial resistance, which is a global health concern. This study's findings underscore the importance of monitoring and regulating antibiotic use in animal husbandry to protect public health